Let’s Explore Algebra

Algebra is a broad branch of mathematics that uses abstraction by replacing alphabetic characters for numbers. It is this abstraction that often frightens many and thrills some. topics of algebra extend from working with equations to factoring binomials all the way to finding the y-intercept. In many cases, just as in any other math oriented class, students begin by adding, subtracting and simplifying algebraic expressions. later on, they would move on to more advanced stages of solving algebraic equations using the greatest common factors and converting fractions in to decimals.

Help!!! Exponents, Radicals and Graphing on the Way…

There are many higher level themes. First there are powers. A power is the little number placed to the right and slightly above a number or algebraic expression. An example is (x + y)³ where the 3 is the exponent and refers the power to which that number is raised. The above algebraic expression is expressed as, x plus y to the third power. While working with powers you will frequently see exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. If you pick up the basic principles, you will shortly get down to working with rational and negative exponents and if you think those are not challenging enough, hopefully complex number will spin your head. 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. Additionally, powers can be added, subtracted, multiplied or divided by radicals. Radicals can be converted into powers and exponents back into radicals. If exponents and radicals aren’t enough, there is always graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and observing if the line is horizontal or 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 Out There

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 complex equations , quadratic formulas and polynomials . Look for math tutors or software programs that will walk you through gradual process on how to solve any problem. You can also use algebra calculators or algebra solvers. any of these tools can help you become an algebra expert in no time.