Solving for a Variable

Front

What does it mean to 'solve for a variable'?

Back

To 'solve for a variable' means to isolate the variable on one side of the equation to find its value.

Front

What is an equation?

Back

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

Front

What is a variable in mathematics?

Back

A variable is a symbol, often a letter, that represents an unknown value in an equation or expression.

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, which may include combining like terms.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To isolate a variable means to manipulate the equation so that the variable is alone on one side of the equation.

Front

What is the purpose of using inverse operations in solving equations?

Back

Inverse operations are used to undo operations applied to a variable, helping to isolate it and solve for its value.

Front

How do you check if your solution for a variable is correct?

Back

You can check your solution by substituting the value back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.

Front

What is a coefficient?

Back

A coefficient is a numerical factor that multiplies a variable in an algebraic expression.

Front

What is the difference between an expression and an equation?

Back

An expression is a combination of numbers, variables, and operations without an equality sign, while an equation includes an equality sign.

Front

What does it mean to combine like terms?

Back

Combining like terms involves adding or subtracting terms that have the same variable raised to the same power.