What is Algebra?
It is an area of mathematics that use letters in replacement of numbers to derive results for a given situation. It is this generalization that often scares many and quivers some. Algebra topics range by working through simple tasks such as factoring binomials and eventually progressing on to finding the product of matrices. In almost all cases, just as in any other maths related class, students begin by adding, subtracting and simplifying algebraic expressions. 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 numerous advanced topics. First there are exponents. A power is the small 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 as, x plus y to the third power. In working with exponents you can add, subtract, multiple or divide them. You can work with fractional and negative exponents. If that isn’t enough to make your head spin, then you can move on to radicals. A radical, simply put, is the undoing of an power. The V beside 4 denote a radical expression which means, the square root of 4, which equals 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. Additionally, exponents can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided by radicals. Radicals can be changed into powers and powers back into radicals. If powers and radicals aren’t enough, there is always graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and observing if the line is horizontal or vertical or something else. Another question to ask is whether the line has 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!
Help is Out There
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 theme. 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 assist you become an algebra expert in no time.