Equation

Definition

An equation is a mathematical statement that expresses the equality of two expressions, typically involving variables and constants. Equations are fundamental in the study of algebra, as they allow us to represent and solve problems involving unknown quantities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Equations can be used to represent real-world situations and problems, allowing for the quantification of relationships between variables.
2. Solving an equation involves finding the value of the unknown variable that makes the equation true.
3. Equations can have one or more solutions, or no solution at all, depending on the specific problem and the values of the variables.
4. Systems of equations involve multiple equations with multiple unknowns, which can be solved using various techniques, such as substitution or elimination.
5. Variation equations, such as direct and inverse variation, describe the relationship between two or more variables and can be expressed in the form of an equation.

Review Questions

• Explain how equations are used in the context of 'Use the Language of Algebra'.
  • In the context of 'Use the Language of Algebra', equations are the fundamental building blocks for representing and solving algebraic problems. Equations allow us to translate real-world situations into mathematical expressions, using variables to represent unknown quantities. By understanding the structure and properties of equations, we can manipulate and solve them to find the values of the unknown variables, which is a crucial skill in the study of algebra.
• Describe the role of equations in 'Solving Systems of Equations by Substitution'.
  • When solving systems of equations by substitution, the key is to recognize that each equation represents a constraint or relationship between the variables. By isolating a variable in one equation and substituting its expression into the other equation(s), we can create a new equation with fewer variables, which can then be solved. This process of using one equation to eliminate a variable in another equation is the essence of the substitution method for solving systems of equations.
• Analyze how equations are used in the context of 'Use Direct and Inverse Variation'.
  • In the study of direct and inverse variation, equations play a crucial role in representing the relationship between two or more variables. Direct variation equations are typically expressed in the form $y = kx$, where $k$ is a constant, and they describe a linear relationship between the variables. Inverse variation equations, on the other hand, are expressed in the form $y = k/x$, and they describe a non-linear, hyperbolic relationship between the variables. Understanding the structure and properties of these variation equations is essential for analyzing and solving problems involving direct and inverse relationships.

Related terms

Variable: A symbol, usually a letter, that represents an unknown or changeable quantity in an equation.

Constant: A fixed value that does not change within the context of a particular problem or equation.

Expression: A mathematical phrase that combines variables, constants, and operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.