Algebra in Your Life
Let’s Explore Algebra
Algebra is a broad part of mathematics that uses generalization by replacing letters for numbers. This abstraction is the very reason why most individuals 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 range from working with inequalities to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. In many cases, just as in any other mathematics 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.
Oh no! It’s Exponents, Radicals and Graphing
There are many higher level themes. First there are exponents. An exponent is the small number placed as superscript to 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 exponentiated. The above algebraic expression is read as, x plus y to the third power. While working with powers you will oftentimes come across exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. 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 exponent. Radical expressions are referred by the symbolic representation “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 converted into powers and powers back into radicals. If powers and radicals aren’t enough, there is always 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? After you master graphing lines, a whole world of circles, parabolas and hyperbolas awaits you!
Help is Available
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 radical systems of equations, quadratic formulas and polynomials. 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 instruments can assist you become an algebra guru in no time.
