Introduction To Algebra

"Algebra is nothing but Puzzles in Mathematics"

We Go with one example

We get the answer 6 right !!

Because, 6 - 2 = 4, very easy....

In this puzzle we use blank box to represent the unknown value that we have to find.

but, in Algebra, we don't use blank boxes,

We use letters ( usually , x or y or any letter is fine)

so, we write as

X - 2 = 4

After solving we get x = 6

Why we use letter in Algebra?

Because, it is easier to write letters instead of drawing boxes. It is more relevant

in reading mathematical statements. Also it permits use of different letters if the unknowns are more than one.

How to get values of Unknowns?

Follow this step by step approach to solve the puzzle.

work out "What to remove to get 'x=....'"
Remove it by " doing the opposite ( Adding is the opposite of Subtraction & vice versa; also multiplying is opposite of division & vice versa.)
after solving we get the answer.

Have an example

(Quick check: 6 – 2 = 4)

Why do we added 2 on both sides?

Note:

To keep the balance,

Another Example

Some examples for Practice:

1) x - 3 = 7 2) x + 2 = 6 3) x - 4 = 5 4) x + 4 = 10 5) x - 1 = 9

Next blog : Introduction to Algebra (Part II) (Multiplication & Division)

Practice more and more

Till then Bye .........

Basic Math Funda