What is Algebra?
Algebra is a wide branch of mathematics that uses generalization by replacing alphabetic characters for numbers. This abstraction is the very reason why most people find algebra scary and too difficult to handle and it is the same reasons why some pupils find it fun to play around with. topics of algebra extend from working with fractions to factoring binomials all the way to finding the y-intercept. In many cases, just as in any other math associated class, students start by adding, subtracting and simplifying algebraic expressions . They then move on to understanding equivalent fractions, finding Least Common Multiples (LCM) and converting fractions to decimals.
Help!!! Exponents, Radicals and Graphing on the Way…
There are numerous higher level topics. Firstly there are exponents. An exponent is the tiny number placed to the right and slightly above a number or algebraic expression. An example is (x + y)3 where the 3 is the power and refers the power to which that number is raised. The above algebraic expression is expressed as, x plus y to the third power. While working with exponents you will oftentimes see exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. If you pick up the fundamental principles, you will shortly get down to working with rational and negative exponents and if you think those are not challenging enough, hopefully complex number will spin your head. A radical, simply put, is the undoing of an power. Radical expressions are referred by the symbol “V” and when placed alongside number 4, it is read as square root of 4, which is equal to 2. The opposite exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. As with exponents, radical expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied and divided. Radicals can be changed into powers and exponents back into roots. If you find that exponents and radicals don’t really perk up your interest, you could move on to graphing. The best way to start with graphing is to draw lines and try to work out if they are horizontal, vertical or neither. Does the line have an x-intercept or a y-intercept? Can you find the slope of the line? you master the mathematical art of graphing, you will discover a whole new world full of parabolas and hyperbolas.
Want Help?
If you are learning algebra and this all seems a little too much, don’t sweat. There are many resources out there that can help you master linear inequalities, quadratic formulas and polynomials . Look for math tutors or software applications that will walk you through gradual process on how to solve any problem. You can also use algebra calculators or algebra solvers. any of these instruments can assist you become an algebra guru in very little time.