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Math is often a nightmare for students. Yet, most university degrees require a basic knowledge of math theory and practical application.
Math plays a crucial role in your daily life and is integral to your future career.
Therefore, a math course at a university requires basic knowledge of math topics like Algebra, Trigonometry, and the Pythagoras Theorem.
Studying math during middle school and high school is much simpler. However, when you move towards college or university, you will be taught more advanced topics like logarithms and exponential functions.
This article will assess essential information regarding algebra and enhance the learning experience for several students who find it hard to grasp basic concepts in algebra.
What Is Algebra?
Initially invented by math scholars to make math easier to learn, Algebra is a subtopic of math that uses letters and symbols to represent numbers, equations, and formulae.
These numbers are written in the equation to describe the relationships between several variables.
The word 'algebra' originates from an Arabic word, 'Al-Jabr.' This word was found in a 9th-century manuscript owned by Muhammad Ibn-e-Musa al-Khuwarizmi.
This book included several facts on inheritance rules, distributing equal salaries, and land distribution.
While al-Khwarizmi is still credited for introducing algebraic terms and expressions, It wasn't until the Renaissance that math scholars initiated algebraic symbols, which are still practiced today.
There are numerous branches of algebra, one of which is linear algebra. In addition, several areas in math still use linear equations, including science, engineering, and geometry.
While some students love algebra, many still find algebraic expressions hard to understand. Therefore, it is crucial to simplify them.
Several terms are combined to make algebra simple and easier to understand. Some of them include adding minus signs and following PEMDAS or BODMAS formulas.
If you seek help with algebra, you can easily find an online math tutor to guide the essential algebra topics.
What Are The Branches In Algebra?
Algebra is simplified by using several algebraic expressions. Moreover, algebra can be classified into various branches, some of which are listed below.
Pre Algebra
Pre-algebra involves creating a mathematical expression of a particular problem. It is a fundamental way of showcasing variables and values that are unknown. Pre-algebra helps change real-life situations into mathematic expressions.
This branch is usually taught to 7th and 8th-grade students. For example, pre-algebra revolves around fractions, step equations, integers, and decimals.
Moreover, they are taught how to solve basic math equations using certain variables and values.
While skipping pre-algebra is common in schools, many institutions discourage it. This is because learning advanced algebra in future courses will become more challenging.
Abstract Algebra
Teachers use abstract concepts like vectors, rings, and groups in abstract algebra rather than simpler number systems.
For example, in rings, students must write the addition and multiplication elements together. Abstract algebra includes two critical concepts, ring theory and group theory.
Moreover, abstract algebra has numerous applications in several fields worldwide. Some of these include computer sciences, astronomy, and physics.
In abstract algebra, several concepts use symbols to display fundamental arithmetic operations.
The courses taught under this branch introduce students to more advanced concepts in math, such as lattices and group theory.
Universal Algebra
Universal algebra includes advanced mathematical expressions, excluding the models of algebra. It studies algebraic structures but does not include examples of algebra.
Universal algebra is sometimes called general algebra, where a particular class of groups is used as a subject of study.
Several math forms such as trigonometry, coordinate geometry, and calculus use algebraic equations in universal algebra.
All other branches of algebra, such as abstract algebra, pre-algebra, and elementary algebra, are considered subset topics of universal algebra.
Elementary Algebra
Elementary algebra includes some essential algebra topics. Typically, elementary school and middle school students are taught elementary algebra.
This branch typically deals with the general number properties and the association between each variable.
It includes the essential addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
When learning elementary algebra, you will be taught to solve quadratic equations through factoring, systems of linear equations, and geometric reasoning.
Moreover, you will translate written phrases into graphing and algebraic expressions.
What Are Some Basic Algebraic Concepts?
Below are some of the concepts you will explore when learning algebra:
Sequences And Series
A set of numbers that have a relationship with one another is known as a sequence. In addition, these numbers have set proximity with each other.
A series is a sum of the numbers in a sequence. In mathematics, some series are finite while some are infinite.
These two series can be represented as an arithmetic or geometric progression. In arithmetic progressions, the difference between two consecutive terms is mostly a constant.
In geometric progressions, the progression has a fixed ratio of adjacent terms.
Algebraic Expressions
Algebraic expressions are created through integer constants, variables, and basic arithmetic operations of subtraction, addition, division, and multiplication.
The variables can be simplified using letters like x, y, and z. Equations are mathematical statements with an 'equal to' symbol between algebraic expressions.
The concept of algebra can be applied to various equations depending on the degree of variables.
Below is a list of equations that utilize the concept of algebra.
Quadratic Equations
Quadratic equations are written in standard forms where x is the variable and a,b, and c are the constants.
The solutions of the equations are values of x that satisfy the entire equation. A quadratic equation has a majority of two keys.
Cubic Equations
Cubic equations are algebraic equations that have variables with a power of 3.
There are several applications of cubic equations, such as three-dimensional geometry and calculus.
Linear Equations
Linear equations represent the relationship between specific variables like x, y, and z. Linear equations use introductory algebra with the essential addition and subtraction of the algebraic expressions.
Moreover, in linear equations, the variables are expressed only in exponents of one degree.
Logarithms
Logarithms help simplify more significant algebraic expressions. For example, the form ax=n can be expressed as logan=x. Logarithms have now become an essential aspect of modern mathematics.
Exponents
Exponents are mathematical operations that can be written as an. The base number is a, and the exponent or power is n.
Algebraic expressions can be simplified using these exponents. For example, squares, square roots, cubes, and cube roots are all known as exponents.
Sets
Sets are a combination of several different objects used to represent algebraic variables. A collection of relevant things in groups can be expressed through sets.
Benefits Of Learning Algebra
Students often wonder, "why is it important to learn algebra?". Well, algebra can enrich our lives if we learn it the correct way.
Moreover, understanding algebra appropriately can be helpful in a lot of daily life applications.
Below are the advantages of learning algebra:
Learning Algebra Is Easier Than Learning Basic Math
Just like multiplying in basic math is more accessible than adding numbers to get a result, algebra can help solve maths problems more efficiently than ever.
Moreover, it can expose you to new areas of math such as graphs and curves that cannot be solved with basic math.
While learning algebra may seem intimidating, once you get a grip on it, you can quickly solve complex equations in no time.
The process of learning algebra requires two basic things—the phenomena of variables and how they can be manipulated.
With the right time and practice, you will be super good at algebra in no time. If you want to learn algebra quickly, search for online algebra lessons to get yourself started immediately.
Useful In Daily life
Algebra can be helpful in everyday life situations. For example, it makes it easier to make financial decisions. For example, you may need algebra to choose a health care plan for your family.
You can use two-variable equations to find an exact point between both options. Moreover, algebra can be used when buying a new house, car, or ordering a customized bookshelf for your room.
Helps Master Calculus And Statistics
Several people use statistics and calculus in their jobs. For example, if you work as a research analyst, you will use statistics almost daily.
Moreover, if you work as a business analyst, you will assist several departments in identifying ways they can measure their success.
Stats are used in the daily operations of several businesses. For example, fields like politics, social sciences, healthcare, and media use statistics in their day-to-day operations.
You can become a better employee and a wise consumer of information by learning statistics.
Calculus can simplify several complex processes. For example, engineers and scientists constantly use calculus to design innovative technology.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in science, learning algebra can give you a good grip on calculus
Algebra Is Amazing
You can only enjoy the beauty of algebra if you are dedicated enough to learn it thoroughly. Algebra gives you a fundamental language to understand several types of phenomena in the real world.
Starting with a complex-looking problem and then simplifying it with every step until you get the value you want is just amazing.
Working through the entire equation can be a great process with an incredibly satisfactory result when you have a good grip on solving these problems.
Algebra is an important life skill, and it is highly crucial to understand it. Not only does algebra move us beyond basic math, but it also prepares us for calculus and statistics in the future.
Moreover, algebra can be helpful in several jobs where you may require to analyze information. Finally, despite the stigma that algebra is tedious, it can be a gateway to exploring the world around us.
How Do I Learn Algebra?
There are several books and courses that you can use to learn algebra. You may understand all the topics in algebra, but if you do not continue to practice, all the effort you put in the past will be of no use at all.
It must not be denied that algebra can be a complex subject for some students to grasp. Thankfully, there are several resources available that can assist you with math.
Read Algebra-Based Textbooks
Several algebra-based textbooks can give you a thorough explanation of algebraic expressions. From beginner to advanced concepts, these textbooks cover every aspect of algebra in a simplified way.
In addition, several books come with real-life examples and are as helpful as regular math textbooks in schools.
Take Online Algebra Courses
You can access several resources online that will assist you in algebra. In addition, several platforms, such as Superprof, have millions of tutors who can guide you about the basic principles of algebra.
If you want to take physical lessons, search "algebra tutor near me" to find an instructor at the closest distance. Learning algebra online is an excellent option if you like learning visually.
You can also go through videos that are catered towards introductory algebra. These videos use a step-by-step approach to help you solve numerous algebraic equations that may seem intimidating.
Learn Math Topics With Superprof
While several online courses teach math, hiring a private tutor can benefit academic support, especially when learning math. Search "math tutor near me" and hire a professional math tutor right away.
Hiring a math tutor can be an ideal solution to improve your skills in math. Teachers at Superprof are highly qualified to help you brush up on any math-related topic.
The platform that connects tutors and students
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