Understanding Algebra Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does the term 'algebra' refer to?

The study of data interpretation

The study of shapes and sizes

Using symbols to represent unknown numbers (correct)

The analysis of statistical measures

What is an 'expression' in mathematics?

A mathematical phrase that contains operations, numbers, and/or variables.

Define 'equation'.

A mathematical sentence that contains an equals sign.

What is a variable?

A symbol that is used to represent a number. Signup and view all the answers

Define a 'term' in algebra.

A number by itself or the product of a number and a variable. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'operators' in mathematics?

Symbols that indicate mathematical operations. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'properties' in algebra?

A set of math rules that are always true. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'constant'?

A number that stays fixed in an expression. Signup and view all the answers

Define 'algebraic expression'.

A collection of numbers, variables, operational symbols, and grouping symbols. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 'coefficient'?

A number multiplied by a variable in an algebraic expression. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'like terms'?

Terms that contain the same variables raised to the same power. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'combining like terms' mean?

It refers to simplifying an expression by merging terms with the same variable. Signup and view all the answers

A variable without a coefficient has a coefficient of 0.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does 'descending order' mean?

Arranging values from the highest to the lowest. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'evaluation' in mathematics?

The process of simplifying a mathematical expression by substituting a variable with a number. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'independent variable'?

The variable that is being substituted for. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'dependent variable'?

The variable that you solve for. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'isolate the variable'?

To get a variable alone on one side of the equation. Signup and view all the answers

What are 'inverse operations'?

Operations that reverse the effect of another operation. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Algebra Fundamentals

Algebra utilizes symbols (usually letters like x, y, z) to denote unknown numbers, forming a foundational aspect of mathematics.

Expressions and Equations

An expression is a mathematical phrase comprising numbers, operations (e.g., +, -), and/or variables.
An equation is a statement equating two expressions, identifiable by the presence of an equals sign; the solution is the value that satisfies the equation.

Variables and Terms

A variable represents an unknown quantity, denoted by letters or symbols.
A term can be a standalone number or the product of a number and a variable; terms are separated by addition symbols within expressions.

Operators and Mathematical Functions

Operators (e.g., +, -, x, /) dictate the type of calculations to perform in mathematical expressions.
In word problems, specific terms indicate operations: "sum" for addition, "difference" for subtraction, "product" for multiplication, and "quotient" for division.

Mathematical Properties

Properties are inherent mathematical rules that facilitate equation solving.
Key properties include:
- Identity properties (addition and multiplication)
- Commutative properties (addition and multiplication)
- Associative properties (addition and multiplication)
- Distributive property (over addition and subtraction)

Constants and Coefficients

A constant is a fixed numerical value within an expression (e.g., the constant in 6x + 4 is 4).
A coefficient is the number that multiplies a variable (e.g., in 6x + 4, the coefficient of x is 6).

Simplifying Expressions

Like terms are terms with the same variables raised to identical powers and can be combined to simplify expressions.
If terms do not share the same variable structure, they cannot be combined (e.g., 4y is not combinable with 3y²).

Order and Evaluation

Descending order arranges values from high to low, such as from 9 to 1 or Z to A.
Evaluation involves substituting variables with numbers and simplifying expressions per the order of operations (e.g., evaluate 3y - 6 for y = 8).

Variables in Relationships

The independent variable is the one substituted into an equation, while the dependent variable is solved for in relation to the independent variable (commonly denoted by y).

Isolating Variables and Operations

Isolating a variable involves manipulating the equation to have the variable alone on one side to find its value.
Inverse operations are pairs of operations that reverse the effect of each other, crucial for solving equations.

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Description

This quiz provides flashcards that cover essential algebraic terms and concepts. Learn definitions for key terms such as 'algebra', 'expression', and 'equation' to enhance your understanding of algebra. Perfect for students looking to solidify their foundational math knowledge.