Algebra Regents Flashcard Friday <jan 17>

Front

What is the definition of a variable in algebra?

Back

A variable is a symbol, often a letter, that represents one or more numbers.

Front

What is the purpose of solving an equation?

Back

The purpose of solving an equation is to find the value(s) of the variable that make the equation true.

Front

What does it mean to simplify an expression?

Back

To simplify an expression means to combine like terms and perform operations to make it as concise as possible.

Front

What is the distributive property?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac, meaning you multiply a term by each term inside the parentheses.

Front

What is a linear equation?

Back

A linear equation is an equation that makes a straight line when graphed, typically in the form y = mx + b.

Front

What does the slope of a line represent?

Back

The slope of a line represents the rate of change of y with respect to x, indicating how steep the line is.

Front

What is the y-intercept in a linear equation?

Back

The y-intercept is the point where the line crosses the y-axis, represented by the value of b in the equation y = mx + b.

Front

What is a function?

Back

A function is a relation that assigns exactly one output for each input.

Front

What is the difference between independent and dependent variables?

Back

The independent variable is the one that is changed or controlled, while the dependent variable is the one that is measured or affected.

Front

What is a quadratic equation?

Back

A quadratic equation is a polynomial equation of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants.