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Basic Algebra Notes

This document provides an overview of basic algebra concepts. It introduces algebra as using symbols to represent numbers and relationships. Variables, expressions, and the order of operations (PEMDAS) are explained. Equations are defined as statements of equality and can be solved by isolating the variable. Algebra allows graphing relationships between variables on a coordinate plane. Polynomials and quadratic equations are types of expressions and equations that have specific rules and properties. Overall, the document outlines fundamental algebraic topics and their applications in mathematics and modeling real-world problems.

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Cedric Montiano
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
47 views

Basic Algebra Notes

This document provides an overview of basic algebra concepts. It introduces algebra as using symbols to represent numbers and relationships. Variables, expressions, and the order of operations (PEMDAS) are explained. Equations are defined as statements of equality and can be solved by isolating the variable. Algebra allows graphing relationships between variables on a coordinate plane. Polynomials and quadratic equations are types of expressions and equations that have specific rules and properties. Overall, the document outlines fundamental algebraic topics and their applications in mathematics and modeling real-world problems.

Uploaded by

Cedric Montiano
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Basic Algebra Notes

I. Introduction

• Algebra is a branch of mathematics that uses symbols and letters to represent


numbers and relationships between them.
• It is used to solve mathematical problems and to model real-world situations.
• Algebraic concepts and skills are fundamental to many areas of mathematics,
science, and technology.

II. Variables and Expressions

• A variable is a letter or symbol used to represent a number.


• Variables are commonly used to represent unknown values in mathematical
expressions.
• An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and mathematical
operations (e.g. 2x + 3).

III. Order of Operations (PEMDAS)

• When simplifying expressions, it is important to follow the order of operations to


ensure that the correct answer is obtained.
• The acronym PEMDAS stands for parentheses, exponents, multiplication and
division, and addition and subtraction.
• Parentheses: expressions inside parentheses should be simplified first.
• Exponents: raise variables to their powers before performing any other
operations.
• Multiplication and Division: perform these operations from left to right.
• Addition and Subtraction: perform these operations from left to right.

IV. Solving Equations

• An equation is a statement that two expressions are equal (e.g. 2x + 3 = 7).


• To solve an equation, isolate the variable by performing operations on both sides
of the equation to make the variable the subject.
• The solution to an equation is the value of the variable that makes the equation
true.

V. Graphing
• Algebra can also be used to graph relationships between variables.
• A graph represents the solution set of an equation as a set of points on a
coordinate plane.
• The x-axis represents the values of the independent variable and the y-axis
represents the values of the dependent variable.
• Graphing can be used to visualize patterns, identify trends, and make predictions.

VI. Polynomials

• A polynomial is an expression that consists of variables and coefficients, with


positive whole number exponents (e.g. 2x^2 + 3x + 4).
• Polynomials can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided using specific rules
and techniques.
• The degree of a polynomial is the highest exponent in the expression.
• The factorization of a polynomial involves finding a common factor and factoring
it out to simplify the expression.

VII. Quadratic Equations

• A quadratic equation is an equation in the form of ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b,


and c are constants and x is the variable.
• Quadratic equations can be solved using a variety of methods, including
factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic formula.
• The solutions to a quadratic equation can be real or complex numbers, and the
graph of a quadratic equation is a parabola.

VIII. Conclusion

• Basic algebra is a foundational part of mathematics that provides the tools to


solve mathematical problems and model real-world situations.
• Understanding algebra and its applications is important for a wide range of
careers and disciplines, including engineering, science, economics, and more.
• Mastering algebra requires practice, persistence, and a solid understanding of its
concepts and principles.

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