Solving Equations and Word Problems

Front

What is an equation?

Back

An equation is a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions, typically containing variables.

Front

What does it mean to solve an equation?

Back

To solve an equation means to find the value(s) of the variable(s) that make the equation true.

Front

What is a variable in mathematics?

Back

A variable is a symbol, often represented by a letter, that stands for an unknown value in an equation or expression.

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What is a word problem?

Back

A word problem is a mathematical problem that is presented in the form of a narrative or real-life scenario.

Front

How do you set up an equation from a word problem?

Back

Identify the unknowns, define variables for them, and translate the relationships and conditions described in the problem into an equation.

Front

What is the first step in solving a linear equation?

Back

The first step is to simplify both sides of the equation, if possible, by combining like terms.

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What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To isolate a variable means to manipulate the equation so that the variable is on one side and all other terms are on the opposite side.

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What is the distributive property?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac, allowing you to multiply a single term by each term inside a parenthesis.

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How do you check if your solution to an equation is correct?

Back

Substitute the solution back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.

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What is a linear equation?

Back

A linear equation is an equation of the first degree, meaning it has no exponents greater than one and graphs as a straight line.