Pre-Algebra: Chapter 7-2
Solving 2-step equations
In solving 2 step equations, we are going to combine the steps of adding/subtracting and then multiplying/dividing to isolate the variable to one side of the equation. Remember, we do to both sides exactly the same thing, whether it is adding, subtracting, multiplying or dividing. We should use the following as a guide:
- Decide what side of the equal sign you want to isolate the variable to
- Add/subtract to get rid of terms (numbers) next to the variable that are separated from the variable by a + or – sign. For example, if the equation is 5 + 2a, then subtract 5 from both sides to just leave the 2a on one side of the equation.
- Once the variable is by itself on one side of the equation, it may still have constants either multiplied to it or divided by it. To get rid of these, do the opposite, if the term is like the 2a, then divide both sides by 2. If the term is like y/4, then do the opposite of divide and multiply both sides by 4!
- Remember to to the operation to BOTH SIDES OF THE EQUATION!
Algebra: Chapter 5-3
Multiplying and Dividing Monomials
A monomial is an expression that is either a numeral, a variable or a product of numerals and variables with WHOLE number exponents. If the monomial is a number, we call it a CONSTANT.
We can multiply 2 monomials using the properties of rational numbers and the properties of exponents. We can use the associative and commutative properties. We can also divide monomials using the same properties of rational numbers and the properties of exponents. Here is a pretty good link and examples.