Key Concepts in Solving Linear Equations to Know for Elementary Algebra

Solving linear equations is a key skill in Elementary Algebra. It involves understanding the structure of equations, applying properties of equality, and isolating variables. Mastering these concepts helps in tackling various problems, from simple equations to real-world applications.

1. Definition of a linear equation

   • A linear equation is an equation of the first degree, meaning it involves variables raised only to the power of one.
   • It can be expressed in the standard form: Ax + B = C, where A, B, and C are constants and A ≠ 0.
   • The graph of a linear equation is a straight line.

2. Properties of equality

   • The addition property states that if you add the same value to both sides of an equation, the equality remains true.
   • The subtraction property states that subtracting the same value from both sides keeps the equation balanced.
   • The multiplication and division properties state that multiplying or dividing both sides by the same non-zero number preserves equality.

3. Isolating the variable

   • The goal is to get the variable (usually x) by itself on one side of the equation.
   • Use inverse operations to move constants away from the variable.
   • Maintain balance by performing the same operation on both sides of the equation.

4. Solving equations with variables on both sides

   • Combine like terms to simplify both sides of the equation.
   • Move all variable terms to one side and constant terms to the other side.
   • Isolate the variable using properties of equality.

5. Solving equations with fractions and decimals

   • Clear fractions by multiplying both sides by the least common denominator (LCD).
   • For decimals, multiply through by a power of 10 to eliminate decimal points.
   • Follow standard procedures for isolating the variable after clearing fractions or decimals.

6. Solving equations with parentheses

   • Use the distributive property to eliminate parentheses.
   • Combine like terms after distributing.
   • Proceed to isolate the variable using properties of equality.

7. Cross-multiplication method for solving proportions

   • In a proportion (a/b = c/d), cross-multiply to create an equation: ad = bc.
   • This method simplifies solving for a variable in a proportion.
   • Ensure that none of the denominators are zero before applying this method.

8. Checking solutions

   • Substitute the solution back into the original equation to verify its correctness.
   • If both sides of the equation are equal after substitution, the solution is valid.
   • This step helps to catch errors made during the solving process.

9. Word problems involving linear equations

   • Identify the variables and what they represent in the context of the problem.
   • Translate the word problem into a linear equation.
   • Solve the equation and interpret the solution in the context of the problem.

10. Graphing linear equations

    • A linear equation can be graphed by finding two or more points that satisfy the equation.
    • The slope-intercept form (y = mx + b) is useful for quickly identifying the slope (m) and y-intercept (b).
    • The graph represents all possible solutions to the equation, with each point on the line being a solution.