2.1.2. Algebra Vocabulary
The terms constants, variables, coefficients, terms, expressions, equations, inequalities, and formulas in algebraic expressions are all introduced here. These are some words related to algebra that will be helpful.
Constants
A constant is a value or number that never changes in expression.
e.g. \( 3, \pi , \frac{-1}{2} \)
Variables
A variable is a symbol that we use to represent an unknowable value.
Typically, letters like \( x, y, \) or \( t \) are used to represent it.
For example, we could say that l represents the length of a rectangle and w represents its width.
Coefficients
A coefficient is a number that has been multiplied by a variable.
e.g. \( 5a \), where \( 5 \) is the coefficient of \( a \)
Term
A term can be anything. A number, a variable, or the product of a number and variable are examples of terms.
The terms with same variable and its exponent are known as like terms
e.g. \( 5a, -36a, \frac{1}{2} a \) are like terms
Expressions
An expression is made up of one or more terms
e.g. \( 3x+5y-56, 3a^2-2b \)
Equations
An equation is made up of two expressions that are separated by an equal sign.
The value of the expression on one side of the equal sign is the same as the value of the expression on the other side.
e.g. \( 4+5=3^2 \), \( l=3 \times w \)
Inequalities
Inequality is defined as a relationship between two expressions or values that are not equal to each other.
e.g. \( x≥5 \) means \( x \) can take any value which is greater than or equal to \( 5 \)
Formulas
A formula is a shorthand written rule, definition, or relationship between different quantities.
e.g. \( w=mg \) where \( w \) is weight, \( m \) is mass and \( g \) is gravitational acceleration.
Exam Tip:
To fully comprehend the wording of an exam question, you must first understand the distinction between an expression, equation, formula, and inequality.