Elementary algebra

Common card · No. 269118

Elementary algebra, also known as high school algebra or college algebra, encompasses the basic concepts of algebra. It is often contrasted with arithmetic: arithmetic deals with specified numbers, whilst algebra introduces numerical variables (quantities without fixed values). In arithmetic, operations (such as addition and subtraction) can only be performed on numbers. In algebra, operations can be performed on numbers, variables, and terms. Unlike abstract algebra, elementary algebra is not concerned with algebraic structures outside the realm of real and complex numbers. It is typically taught to secondary school students and at introductory college level in the United States, and builds on their understanding of arithmetic. The use of variables to denote quantities allows general relationships between quantities to be formally and concisely expressed, and thus enables solving a broader scope of problems. Many quantitative relationships in science and mathematics are expressed as algebraic...

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