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What is Algebra?

It is an area of mathematics that use letter of the alphabets in replacement of numbers to derive results for a given situation. It is this generalization that often scares many and thrills some. Algebra topics range from working with equations to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. In many cases, just as in any other math related class, students start off 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 advanced topics. Firstly there are exponents. An exponent is the tiny number placed as superscript to a number or algebraic expression. An example is (x + y)³ where the 3 is the power and denotes 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 often encounter exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. You can work with fractional and negative exponents . If that isnt enough to make your head spin, then you can move on to radicals. A radical, simply put, is the reversing of an exponent. 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. Moreover, powers can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided by radicals. Radicals can be changed into exponents and exponents back into radicals. If powers and roots arent enough, there is always graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and verifying 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. you master the mathematical art of graphing, you will find a whole new world full of parabolas and hyperbolas.

Help is Out There

While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. There are many resources out there that can help you master fractional systems of equations, quadratic formulas and polynomials. The custom is to decide on a math tutor, but the modern algebraic software are no different. In fact, they are as good as math tutors. You can also use algebra calculators or algebra solvers. Any of these instruments can help you become an algebra expert in no time.