Unlocking the Power of Algebra: From Basics to Advanced Concepts
Comprehensive Definition, Description, Examples & RulesÂ
Introduction to Algebra
Algebra refers to the field of mathematics that primarily deals with variables and constants and the relationship between them to solve various mathematical equations and problems that can come in handy in real life. Algebra makes use of a variety of mathematical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, and makes use of several mathematical entities like integers, rational numbers, whole numbers, and more. The history of algebra goes as far back as that of the Babylonians and the Greeks. The particular flourishment in the field, though, was seen during the Golden Age of Islam in the 9th century.Â
Algebra is very important in a variety of fields in real life like engineering, computer science, physics, as well as economics. Algebra forms the foundation of calculus which is a very important stream of mathematics and comes in handy in carrying out various essential functions in the real world.Â
What is Algebra?
Algebra is a branch of mathematics that works largely with variables and constants and their relationships to solve various mathematical equations and problems that can be applied in real life. Algebra employs several mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as several mathematical entities such as integers, rational numbers, whole numbers, and others.
Algebraic Expressions vs. Arithmetic Expressions
Algebraic expressions are different from arithmetic expressions because arithmetic expressions deal only with operations that are solely numerical like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. On the other hand, algebraic expressions also deal with mathematical operations that include variables or entities whose values are unknown or likely to change.Â
Key Concepts in Algebra
Here is a list of key factors you should be aware of, in algebra:
- Constants: These are mathematical entities that have a fixed or constant value. For example 1,2,3,4…
- Variables: These are mathematical entities that have an unknown or changeable value and to which certain values can be ascribed. For example x,y,z…
- Equations: These are mathematical representations of two entities being of the same values.
- Inequalities: These are mathematical representations of two entities being of different values.
- Polynomials: These are mathematical expressions that are comprised of the above-mentioned variables and constants and various mathematical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
The Basics of Algebra
Introducing Variables and Constants
- Variables: These are mathematical entities that have an unknown or changeable value and to which certain values can be ascribed. Variables help us to carry out calculations for any arbitrary value. For example x,y,z…
- Constants: These are mathematical entities that have a fixed or constant value. Constants remain the same throughout the calculation of an equation and influence the final answer by ascertaining a fixed value to the equation. For example: 1,2,3,4…
Algebraic Operations: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division
- Addition: This is a mathematical operation that plays the role of summing up individual values of mathematical entities to give the clubbed value of all the entities taken together. The final result of addition leads to an increased value.
- Subtraction: This is a mathematical operation that plays the role of finding the difference between the values of different mathematical entities to give the margin of difference between them. The final result of subtraction leads to a decreased value.
- Multiplication: This is a mathematical operation that plays the role of finding the product of different mathematical entities to give the augmented value of the entities multiplied. The final result of multiplication leads to an increased value.
- Division: This is a mathematical operation that plays the role of splitting a mathematical entity concerning another mathematical entity to find out the number of equal divisions that can be done in the larger entity. The final result of division leads to a decreased value.
Solving Simple Algebraic Equations
Go through the following example to know how to solve a simple algebraic equation:
Solve for x: 7x + 9 = 30
Solution:Â
To solve the above equation, we will have to transpose quantities on either side of the equality sign to ensure that the equation is true in all the steps:
7x = 30-9
7x = 21
x = 3
Algebra for Kids: Making it Fun and Approachable
Strategies for Teaching Algebra to Children
Mathematical concepts like algebra don’t necessarily have to be complex. You can incorporate various strategies to make algebra fun and exciting for children. For example:
- Make use of real-world scenarios to teach them the basic concepts of algebra.
- Introduce different algebra methods to children through fun games and puzzles.
- Use fascinating stories to help children interestingly learn algebra. Â
Kid-friendly Examples and Exercises
Here are some kid-friendly examples and exercises you can make use of while teaching them algebra:
- If Barbie has x friends and Ken has y friends, how many friends do they have in total? (Answer: x + y)
- If you have x candies and your mother gives you double of it, how many candies did she give you? (Answer: 2x)
- If you have y toys and you have to share them with your friend, how many toys will you both have? (y/2)
Fun Algebra Games and Activities
Here are some fun algebra games and activities you can incorporate while teaching kids math algebra:Â
- Scaling Game: use physical weighing scales to introduce the concept of algebraic equations to kids.
- Board Games: Buy board games for children based on the various concepts of algebra.
- Bingo: Play the game of Bingo with children, but with algebraic rules and concepts.Â
Common General Mathematics Algebra Questions
Frequently Asked Questions in Algebra
Here is a list of some frequently asked questions in algebra and their respective answer:
- What are constants and variables?
Constants are mathematical entities that have a fixed or constant value. For example: 1,2,3,4…and variables are mathematical entities that have an unknown or changeable value and to which certain values can be ascribed. For example: x,y,z…
- What is an equation?
Equations are mathematical representations of two entities being of the same values.
- What is a polynomial?
Polynomials are mathematical expressions that are comprised of the above-mentioned variables and constants and various mathematical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Linear Equations and Quadratic Functions
Linear Equations: When the highest power a variable has in an equation is 1, we refer to that equation as a linear equation. Mathematically, it is represented as ‘ax + by = c’ (a, b, c: constants).Â
Quadratic Functions: When a mathematical function has variables with the highest power of a variable being 2, it is referred to as a quadratic function. Mathematically, it can be represented as ‘ax^2 + by = c’ (a, b, c: constants).Â
Tips for Solving Algebra Problems
Here are some quick tips to solve algebraic problems easily:
- Combine constants with the same variables to make calculations quicker and easier.
- Apply the BODMAS Rule (Solving in the particular order of Brackets – Of – Division – Multiplication – Addition – Subtraction)
- Use the distributive property to split complex terms.Â
Exploring Algebraic Expressions and Equations
Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
Here are some ways you can simplify an algebraic equation for an easier calculation:Â
- Solve the terms given in brackets or parenthesis first.
- If there are any fractions, reduce them to their simplest forms.
- Bring constants with the same variables together to solve quickly.Â
Solving Linear Equations and Inequalities
Follow the given steps to solve linear equations and inequalities:
- Use the transposing method to isolate the variables on one side and constants on the other.Â
- For equations, always maintain equality in every step of calculation.
- For inequalities, use graphs to present the solutions and solve them accordingly.
Introduction to Polynomials
Polynomials are mathematical expressions with one or more terms comprising variables, constants, and exponents. For example: 9x +7y, 2x, 10x/2, etc.Â
Algebraic Concepts Beyond the Basics
Quadratic Equations and Factoring
Quadratic Equations: When the highest power a variable has in an equation is 2, we refer to that equation as a quadratic equation. Mathematically, it is represented as ‘ax^2 + by = c’ (a, b, c: constants).
Factoring: This is a process of solving quadratic equations by breaking them down into simpler components. When expressions are multiplied and the solution is the quadratic equation, the process is known as factoring.Â
Exponents and Radicals
Exponents: Exponents or power refers to the number of times a number is multiplied by itself. It is represented as x^2, x^3, etc.Â
Radicals: Radicals refer to the opposite process of exponents and help us find the original number that is raised to some amount of power. It is symbolized as y.
Systems of Equations
Systems of equations refer to a group of two or more equations that have the same variables and a common solution for a given set of equations.Â
Practical Applications of Algebra
Algebra in Everyday Life: Budgeting, Finance, and Problem-Solving
Algebra can be used in a variety of everyday activities. For example:Â
Budgeting: Algebra helps people various budgeting techniques that help them keep a record of their financial holdings.Â
Finance: Algebra helps people make the right investment decisions, organize loans, etc.Â
Problem-Solving: Algebra helps people to solve problems in everyday life like counting calories, computing larger calculations, etc.Â
Algebra in Scientific and Engineering Fields
Algebra can also be used in the fields described below:
Science: Algebra is used in several applications of science that we see in everyday life, like electrical circuits, population growth, etc.Â
Engineering: Algebra is used in engineering to design structures, electrical circuits, etc.Â
Career Paths Involving Algebraic Skills
Here is a list of some career paths that involve algebraic skills:
Engineer: Several branches of engineering from electrical and mechanical to civil and aerospace include concepts of algebra in various applications that are essential for the proper functioning of various real-life processes.Â
Architect: An architect employs concepts of algebra to calculate dimensions and measures to design intricate structures like arches, bridges, domes, etc.Â
Physicist: A physicist uses algebra to solve various problems involved in the physical aspects of everyday life that make life easier.Â
Data Scientist: A data scientist uses algebra for various processes involved in computing, analyzing, and managing data and stats.Â
Economist: An economist uses algebra to study and discern the various trends and changes in the economic environment to make informed monetary decisions related to the patterns noticed.Â
Step Up Your Math Game Today!
Free sign-up for a personalised dashboard, learning tools, and unlimited possibilities!
Key Takeaways
- Algebra refers to the field of mathematics that primarily deals with variables and constants and the relationship between them to solve various mathematical equations and problems that can come in handy in real life.
- Constants are mathematical entities that have a fixed or constant value. For example: 1,2,3,4…and variables are mathematical entities that have an unknown or changeable value and to which certain values can be ascribed. For example, x,y,z…
- Algebra and its concepts are employed in various real-life applications like engineering, data science, architecture, and more.
Quiz
Question comes here
Frequently Asked Questions
To solve algebraic equations, use the transposing method to isolate the variables on one side and constants on the other and always maintain equality in every step of the calculation.
For more help and additional learning resources for algebra, try solving general maths algebra questions daily for consistent practice, and refer to a study module and Edulyte worksheet to discern your strong and weak points, and work on them to make concepts clearer.Â
