ALGEBRAIC LAWS
Algebra
The following list of axioms pertains to the real number system where a, b, and c represent any
real numbers. These properties must be true for the algebraic laws to apply.
Closure Properties
1.
a + b is a real number
2.
ab is a real number
Identity Properties
3.
a + 0 = a
4.
a(l) = a
Inverse Properties
5.
For every real number, a, there exists a real
number, -a, such that
a + (-a) = 0
6.
For every real number, a 0, there exists a
real number, l/a, such that
a (1/a) = 1
An equation is a statement of equality. For example, 4 + 3 = 7. An equation can also be written
with one or more unknowns (or variables). The equation x + 7 = 9 is an equality only when the
unknown x = 2. The number 2 is called the root or solution of this equation.
The end product of algebra is solving a mathematical equation(s). The operator normally will
be involved in the solution of equations that are either linear, quadratic, or simultaneous in
nature.
MA-02
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