Algebra and Your Education
Algebra - what is it?
It is an domain of mathematics that use letters 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. Algebra topics extend 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 mathematics oriented 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.
Help!!! Exponents, Radicals and Graphing on the Way…
There are many another advanced subjects. To start off with there are exponents. An exponent 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 refers the power to which that number is raised. 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, 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 reverse exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. Moreover, powers can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided by radicals. Radicals can be converted into exponents and powers back into roots. If you find that exponents and roots don’t really stir your interest, you could move on to graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and verifying if the line is horizontal or vertical or something else. 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 find out a whole new world filled with parabolas and hyperbolas.
Help is Available
While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. Did you know that there are many resources out there that can help you master non-linear systems of inequalities, quadratic formulas and polynomials. The custom is to settle for a math tutor, but the modern 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 help you become an algebra expert in no time.
