Algebra Basics

Algebra is one of the most basic and broad mathematical concepts. It can be defined as the study of mathematical symbols and the laws of manipulating those symbols. Fun fact: a mathematician who studies basics of Algebra is called an Algebraist.

The word Algebra itself is of Arabic origin and it means ‘‘reunion of broken parts’’. Surprisingly enough many people find Algebra challenging. Let us take a closer look at exactly what Algebra is.

 

Types of Basics of Algebra

 

Algebra can be divided into two main groups. These are Elementary and Abstract (sometimes called Modern) Algebra.

Elementary Algebra is distinguished by the use of letters to represent unknown or varying values in a given mathematical equation or expression.

This provides an easy reference to that unknown value. It also makes the equation or expression both simpler and easier to manipulate. A practical example would be the force of gravity.

Since it changes from place to place and also changes with altitude,it becomes impossible to assign a particular figure to its value. This is where algebra comes in handy.

It will assign the letter ‘g’ to the value of gravitational force at any point.Abstract algebra is an advanced form of mathematical study. It focuses on algebraic structures such as groups and lattices etc. it is primarily studied by professional mathematicians.

 

Understanding Algebraic Problems

 

Having understood the concept behind Algebra, tackling algebraic problems becomes easy. Taking note that the letters are representing the required unknown value.

It is also important to remember that the algebraic terms are also prone to the laws of arithmetic operations. For example if the letter moves from one side of the equal sign to the other, its sign (+/-) must change accordingly.

Formulating algebraic equations to solve real life mathematical problems should also be easy. Just assign the unknown value an algebraic term like ‘x’ and consolidate with the values that you do know.

For example, if I know I had fifty dollars but I don’t know how much I spent, I would say I spent ‘x’ dollars. After counting what I have left, say $12, I now know that x + 12 = 50. Using arithmetic laws, I can easily figure out that x = 38.

 

Struggling with Algebra?

 

If algebra has been giving you a hard time, then look no forward than Miracle Learning Centre. One of the top tuition centers in Singapore, we are specialized in Maths and Science tuitions.

In our creative classes, you will be easily able to understand the difficult topics of Maths and learn time-saving techniques to solve those big problems.

We offer primary mathematics tuition, ip maths tuition, JC mathematics tuition, etc. Today let us discuss Algebra.

 

FAQS:

 

Q1: What are the basics of algebra?

 

The basics of algebra include understanding variables (like x or y), using symbols to represent numbers, and applying operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) to solve equations.

Q2: Why is algebra important?

 

Algebra is important because it helps in solving problems involving unknown values and is used in everyday situations, such as budgeting, building structures, and working with data.

Q3: What is an equation in algebra?

 

An equation in algebra is a statement that two expressions are equal, usually with an equal sign (=). For example, “x + 2 = 5” is an equation where you can solve for the value of x.

 

Q4: How can I get better at algebra?

To get better at algebra, practice regularly, understand the basic rules and operations, and work on solving different types of equations step by step. The more you practice, the easier it will become.