An Introduction to Algebra
Variable
A variable is a letter thaat represents a number. The number may change or be
unknown
unknown
Constant
A constant is something that doesnt change value
Terms
A constant, a variable or a constant multiplied by a variable are all considered terms
Coefficient
A coefficient is a number or symbol mulyiplied with a variable in an algebraic term
Algebraic Expression
An algebraic expression is an expression that contains one or more numbers,one or more variables and one or more arithmetic operations.
Equation
An equation is when a term or expression is equal(=) to some value.
Equal Sign
The equal sign divides an equation into two sides-left and right.
Algebra Rule 1
We can only add and subtract terms that have the same letter(s) raised to the same power. These are referred to like terms.
Algebra Rule 2
When adding and subtracting like terms, the powers of the variables do not change.
Algebra Rule 3
To multiply terms: number X number, variable X variable
Algebra Rule 4
When multiplying terms that have the same letter, we add the powers.
Algebra Rule 5
What you do to one side of the equation you must do to the other side as well.
Algebra Rule 6
We divide both sides of the equation by the number in front of the x (variable).