Should You Be Good in Algebra?
6 May 2009
Let’s Explore Algebra
It is an domain of mathematics that use letter of the alphabets instead of numbers to derive results for a given situation. It is this generalization that often scares many and quivers some. topics of algebra extend from working with fractions to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. Most people begin to learn Algebra by adding, subtracting, reducing and simplifying fractions . later on, they would move on to more advanced stages of solving algebraic equations using the least common multiples and converting fractions in to decimals.
Help!!! Exponents, Radicals and Graphing on the Way…
There are many another higher level subjects. Firstly there are exponents. An exponent is the small 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. In working with exponents you can add, subtract, multiple or divide them. If you pick up the basic principles, you will shortly get down to working with rational and negative powers and if you think those are not challenging enough, hopefully radicals will spin your head. A radical, simply put, is the undoing of an exponent. The V beside 4 denote a radical expression which means, the square root of 4, which equals 2. The contrary 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 changed into exponents and powers back into roots. If powers 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. Another question to ask is whether the line has 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
While you are learning algebra if the terms and concepts seem too much to handle, relax and take a break. It’s time to look around because there exists a wide array of resources that is able to help you master the discipline. The tradition is to settle for a math tutor, but the modern algebraic software are no different. In fact, they are better than math tutors. You can also use algebra calculators or algebra solvers. any of these tools can help you become an algebra expert in no time.
