Jessica Lunsford Blog

Let’s Explore Algebra

It is an area of mathematics that use letters in replacement of numbers to derive results for a given situation. It is this generalization that often scares many and shudders some. topics of algebra range from working with fractions to factoring binomials all the way to finding the inverse of a matrix. Most individuals begin to try 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 higher level topics. Firstly there are powers. A power is the small number placed to the right and slightly above a number or algebraic expression. An example is (x + y)³ where the 3 is the power and refers the power to which that number is raised. The above algebraic expression is read as, x plus y to the third power. While working with exponents you will oftentimes encounter exercises that require you to add, subtract, multiply and divide. You can work with fractional and negative exponents. If that isn’t enough to make your head spin, then you can move on to radicals. A radical, in simple terms, 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 inverse exponential equation is 2^2 which is read, 2 to the 2nd power, and equals 4. Equally with exponents, radical expressions can be added, subtracted, multiplied and divided. Radicals can be converted into exponents and exponents back into roots. If powers and roots aren’t enough, there is always graphing. Start with graphing straight lines and finding if the line is horizontal or vertical or neither. Does the line have an x-intercept or a y-intercept? Furthermore, try and see if you can find the slope of a line. Once you master graphing lines, a whole world of circles, parabolas and hyperbolas awaits you!

Help is Available

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 study. The tradition is to decide on a math tutor, but the modern algebraic software are no different. In fact, they are better than math tutors. Know that frustration is not your only friend because any of these tools can assist you become an algebra expert in very little time.