How Does Algebra Influence Our Life

Algebra - what is it?

Algebra is a wide category of mathematics that uses abstraction 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. Algebra topics extend by working through simple tasks such as factoring polynomials and eventually progressing on to finding the product of matrices. Most individuals start to try Algebra by adding, subtracting, reducing and simplifying fractions. later on, they would move on to more advanced stages of solving algebraic equations using the least common multiples and converting fractions in to decimals.

Help!!! Exponents, Radicals and Graphing on the Way…

There are many another advanced themes. First there are exponents. A power is the little number placed to the right and slightly above a number or algebraic expression. In this example (x + y)3 where the 3 is the exponent and refers the power to which that number is raised. The above algebraic expression is read, x plus y to the third power. While working with powers you will oftentimes see exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. You can work with rational and negative exponents . If that isn’t enough to make your head spin, then you can move on to radicals. A radical, in simple terms, is the reversing of an power. The V beside 4 denote a radical expression which means, the square root of 4, which equals 2. The inverse exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. Equally with exponents, radical expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied and divided. Radicals can be changed into powers and exponents back into radicals. If exponents and radicals aren’t enough, there is always graphing. The best way to start with graphing is to draw lines and try to figure out if they are horizontal, vertical or neither. Does the line have an x-intercept or a y-intercept? Furthermore, try and see if you can find the slope of a line. Once you master graphing lines, a whole world of circles, parabolas and hyperbolas awaits you!

Need Help?

While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. It’s time to look around because there exists a wide array of resources that is able to help you master the topic. Look for math tutors or software programs that will walk you through stepwise process on how to solve any problem. Know that frustration is not your only friend because any of these tools can help you become an algebra expert in very little time.

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Oct 18 2009 10:19 am | Education Portal and Mathematics Tips and Science Hall |

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