Making Algebra Important
25 October 2009Let’s Explore Algebra
It is an area of mathematics that use letter of the alphabets in replacement of numbers to derive results for a given situation. 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 students find it fun to play around with. topics of algebra range from working with equations to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. In most cases, just as in any other mathematics related class, students begin 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.
Oh no! It’s Exponents, Radicals and Graphing
There are numerous advanced subjects. First there are powers. An exponent is the tiny 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 denotes the power to which that number is exponentiated. The above algebraic expression is read, x plus y to the third power. While working with exponents you will often see exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. If you pick up the basic principles, you will shortly get down to working with rational and negative powers and if you think those are not challenging enough, hopefully radicals will spin your head. A radical, simply put, is the reversing of an power. Radical expressions are denoted by the symbolization “V” and when placed beside number 4, it is read as square root of 4, which is equal to 2. The inverse of “V” symbol is “^” which denotes that the number it refers to is a multiple of the principle number. Therefore, 2^2 which is read as 2 to the 2nd power, equals 4. Equally with exponents, radical expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied and divided. Radicals can be converted into powers and powers back into radicals. If you find that exponents and roots 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 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!
Want 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 subject area. The custom is to settle for a math tutor, but the cutting-edge algebraic software are no different. In fact, they are as good as math tutors. Know that frustration is not your only friend because any of these tools can assist you become an algebra guru in very little time.
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