Loading [MathJax]/jax/element/mml/optable/Latin1Supplement.js
Skip to main content
Library homepage
 

Text Color

Text Size

 

Margin Size

 

Font Type

Enable Dyslexic Font
Mathematics LibreTexts

Glossary

  • Anonymous
  • LibreTexts

( \newcommand{\kernel}{\mathrm{null}\,}\)

absolute value | The absolute value of a number is the distance from the graph of the number to zero on a number line.

absolute value | The absolute value of a number is the distance from the graph of the number to zero on a number line.

AC method | Method for factoring trinomials by replacing the middle term with two terms that allow us to factor the resulting four-term polynomial by grouping.

AC method | Method for factoring trinomials by replacing the middle term with two terms that allow us to factor the resulting four-term polynomial by grouping.

add polynomials | The process of combining all like terms of two or more polynomials.

add polynomials | The process of combining all like terms of two or more polynomials.

addition property of equations | If A, B, C, and D are algebraic expressions, where A = B and C = D, then A + C = B + D.

addition property of equations | If A, B, C, and D are algebraic expressions, where A = B and C = D, then A + C = B + D.

Additive identity property | Given any real number a, a+0=0+a=a .

Additive identity property | Given any real number a, a+0=0+a=a .

Additive inverse property | Given any real number a, a+(a)=(a)+a=0.

Additive inverse property | Given any real number a, a+(a)=(a)+a=0.

algebraic expressions | Combinations of variables and numbers along with mathematical operations used to generalize specific arithmetic operations.

algebraic expressions | Combinations of variables and numbers along with mathematical operations used to generalize specific arithmetic operations.

algebraic fraction | Term used when referring to a rational expression.

algebraic fraction | Term used when referring to a rational expression.

Area of a circle | A=πr2, where r represents the radius and the constant π3.14.

Area of a circle | A=πr2, where r represents the radius and the constant π3.14.

Area of a rectangle | A=lw, where l represents the length and w represents the width.

Area of a rectangle | A=lw, where l represents the length and w represents the width.

Area of a square | A=s2, where s represents the length of each side.

Area of a square | A=s2, where s represents the length of each side.

Area of a triangle | A=12bh, where b represents the length of the base and h represents the height.

Area of a triangle | A=12bh, where b represents the length of the base and h represents the height.

Associative property | Given real numbers a, b and c, (a+b)+c=a+(b+c).

Associative property | Given any real numbers a, b, and c, (ab)c=a(bc).

Associative property | Given real numbers a, b and c, (a+b)+c=a+(b+c).

Associative property | Given any real numbers a, b, and c, (ab)c=a(bc).

asterisk | The symbol (*) that indicates multiplication within text-based applications.

asterisk | The symbol (*) that indicates multiplication within text-based applications.

average | Used in reference to the arithmetic mean.

average | Used in reference to the arithmetic mean.

average cost | The total cost divided by the number of units produced, which can be represented by c(x)=C(x)x, where C(x) is a cost function.

average cost | The total cost divided by the number of units produced, which can be represented by c(x)=C(x)x, where C(x) is a cost function.

axis of symmetry | A term used when referencing the line of symmetry.

axis of symmetry | A term used when referencing the line of symmetry.

Back substitute | Once a value is found for a variable, substitute it back into one of the original equations, or their equivalent equations, to determine the corresponding value of the other variable.

Back substitute | Once a value is found for a variable, substitute it back into one of the original equations, or their equivalent equations, to determine the corresponding value of the other variable.

back substituting | The process of finding the answers to other unknowns after one has been found.

back substituting | The process of finding the answers to other unknowns after one has been found.

Binomial | Polynomial with two terms.

Binomial | Polynomial with two terms.

caret | The symbol ^ that indicates exponents on many calculators, an=a^n.

caret | The symbol ^ that indicates exponents on many calculators, an=a^n.

Cartesian coordinate system | Used in honor of René Descartes when referring to the rectangular coordinate system.

Cartesian coordinate system | Used in honor of René Descartes when referring to the rectangular coordinate system.

check by evaluating | We can be fairly certain that we have multiplied the polynomials correctly if we check that a few values evaluate to the same results in the original expression and in the answer.

check by evaluating | We can be fairly certain that we have multiplied the polynomials correctly if we check that a few values evaluate to the same results in the original expression and in the answer.

circumference | The perimeter of a circle given by C=2πr, where r represents the radius of the circle and π3.14159.

circumference | The perimeter of a circle given by C=2πr, where r represents the radius of the circle and π3.14159.

collinear | Describes points that lie on the same line.

collinear | Describes points that lie on the same line.

combining like terms | Adding or subtracting like terms within an algebraic expression to obtain a single term with the same variable part.

combining like terms | Adding or subtracting like terms within an algebraic expression to obtain a single term with the same variable part.

common denominator | A denominator that is shared by more than one fraction.

common denominator | A denominator that is shared by more than one fraction.

common factor | A factor that is shared by more than one real number.

common factor | A factor that is shared by more than one real number.

Commutative property | Given real numbers a and b, a+b=b+a.

Commutative property | Given any real numbers a and b, ab=ba.

Commutative property | Given real numbers a and b, a+b=b+a.

Commutative property | Given any real numbers a and b, ab=ba.

completing the square | The process of rewriting a quadratic equation in the form (xp)2=q.

completing the square | The process of rewriting a quadratic equation in the form (xp)2=q.

complex conjugate | Two complex numbers whose real parts are the same and imaginary parts are opposite. If given a+bi, then its complex conjugate is abi.

complex conjugate | Two complex numbers whose real parts are the same and imaginary parts are opposite. If given a+bi, then its complex conjugate is abi.

complex fraction | A fraction where the numerator or denominator consists of one or more fractions.

complex fraction | A fraction where the numerator or denominator consists of one or more fractions.

complex fraction | A fraction where the numerator or denominator consists of one or more fractions.

complex fraction | A fraction where the numerator or denominator consists of one or more fractions.

complex number | Numbers of the form a+bi, where a and b are real numbers.

complex number | Numbers of the form a+bi, where a and b are real numbers.

complex rational expression | A rational expression where the numerator or denominator consists of one or more rational expressions.

complex rational expression | A rational expression where the numerator or denominator consists of one or more rational expressions.

compound inequalities | Two or more inequalities in one statement joined by the word “and” or by the word “or.”

compound inequalities | Two or more inequalities in one statement joined by the word “and” or by the word “or.”

conjugate binomials | The binomials (a+b) and (ab).

conjugate binomials | The binomials (a+b) and (ab).

conjugates | The factors (a+b) and (ab) are conjugates.

conjugates | The factors (a+b) and (ab) are conjugates.

Constant function | A polynomial function with degree 0.

Constant function | A polynomial function with degree 0.

constant of proportionality | Used when referring to the constant of variation.

constant of proportionality | Used when referring to the constant of variation.

constant term | A term written without a variable factor.

constant term | A term written without a variable factor.

contradiction | An equation that is never true and has no solution.

contradiction | An equation that is never true and has no solution.

cross canceling | Cancelling common factors in the numerator and the denominator of fractions before multiplying.

cross canceling | Cancelling common factors in the numerator and the denominator of fractions before multiplying.

cross multiplication | If ab=cd, then ad=bc.

cross multiplication | If ab=cd, then ad=bc.

cube | The result when the exponent of any real number is 3.

cube | The result when the exponent of any real number is 3.

cube root function | The function f(x)=x3.

cube root function | The function f(x)=x3.

Cubic function | A polynomial function with degree 3.

Cubic function | A polynomial function with degree 3.

decimal | A real number expressed using the decimal system.

decimal | A real number expressed using the decimal system.

degree of a polynomial | The largest degree of all of its terms.

degree of a polynomial | The largest degree of all of its terms.

degree of a term | The exponent of the variable; if there is more than one variable in the term, the degree of the term is the sum their exponents.

degree of a term | The exponent of the variable; if there is more than one variable in the term, the degree of the term is the sum their exponents.

dependent system | A system that consists of equivalent equations with infinitely many ordered pair solutions, denoted by (x, mx + b).

dependent system | A system that consists of equivalent equations with infinitely many ordered pair solutions, denoted by (x, mx + b).

dependent variable | The variable whose value is determined by the value of the independent variable. Usually we think of the y-value as the dependent variable.

dependent variable | The variable whose value is determined by the value of the independent variable. Usually we think of the y-value as the dependent variable.

difference of cubes | a3b3=(ab)(a2+ab+b2), where a and b represent algebraic expressions.

difference of cubes | a3b3=(ab)(a2+ab+b2), where a and b represent algebraic expressions.

difference of squares | a2b2=(a+b)(ab), where a and b represent algebraic expressions.

difference of squares | a2b2=(a+b)(ab), where a and b represent algebraic expressions.

difference of squares | a2b2=(a+b)(ab), where a and b represent algebraic expressions.

difference of squares | a2b2=(a+b)(ab), where a and b represent algebraic expressions.

direct variation | Describes two quantities x and y that are constant multiples of each other: y=kx.

direct variation | Describes two quantities x and y that are constant multiples of each other: y=kx.

directly proportional | Used when referring to direct variation.

directly proportional | Used when referring to direct variation.

discriminant | The algebraic expression b24ac.

discriminant | The algebraic expression b24ac.

discriminant | The expression inside the radical of the quadratic formula, b24ac.

discriminant | The expression inside the radical of the quadratic formula, b24ac.

distance formula | Given two points (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), calculate the distance d between them using the formula d=( x 2 x 1)2+( y 2 y 1)2.

distance formula | Given two points (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), calculate the distance d between them using the formula d=( x 2 x 1)2+( y 2 y 1)2.

Distance formula | Given two points (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), calculate the distance d between them using the formula d = ( x 2 x 1)2+( y 2 y 1)2.

Distance formula | Given two points (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), calculate the distance d between them using the formula d = ( x 2 x 1)2+( y 2 y 1)2.

distance formula for a number line | The distance between any two real numbers a and b on a number line can be calculated using the formula d=|ba|.

distance formula for a number line | The distance between any two real numbers a and b on a number line can be calculated using the formula d=|ba|.

distributive property | Given any real numbers a, b, and c, a(b+c)=ab+ac or (b+c)a=ba+ca.

distributive property | Given any real numbers a, b, and c, a(b+c)=ab+ac or (b+c)a=ba+ca.

dividend | The numerator of a quotient.

dividend | The numerator of a quotient.

divisor | The denominator of a quotient.

divisor | The denominator of a quotient.

double root | A root that is repeated twice.

double root | A root that is repeated twice.

double-negative property | The opposite of a negative number is positive: −(−a) = a.

double-negative property | The opposite of a negative number is positive: −(−a) = a.

elimination (or addition) method | A means of solving a system by adding equivalent equations in such a way as to eliminate a variable.

elimination (or addition) method | A means of solving a system by adding equivalent equations in such a way as to eliminate a variable.

empty set | A subset with no elements, denoted or { }.

empty set | A subset with no elements, denoted or { }.

equality relationship | Express equality with the symbol =. If two quantities are not equal, use the symbol .

equality relationship | Express equality with the symbol =. If two quantities are not equal, use the symbol .

equivalent equations | Equations with the same solution set.

equivalent equations | Equations with the same solution set.

Equivalent fractions | Two equal fractions expressed using different numerators and denominators.

Equivalent fractions | Two equal fractions expressed using different numerators and denominators.

equivalent inequality | Inequalities that share the same solution set.

equivalent inequality | Inequalities that share the same solution set.

equivalent system | A system consisting of equivalent equations that share the same solution set.

equivalent system | A system consisting of equivalent equations that share the same solution set.

evaluating | The process of performing the operations of an algebraic expression for given values of the variables.

evaluating | The process of performing the operations of an algebraic expression for given values of the variables.

even integers | Integers that are divisible by two or are multiples of two.

even integers | Integers that are divisible by two or are multiples of two.

exponent | The positive integer n in the exponential notation an that indicates the number of times the base is used as a factor.

exponent | The positive integer n in the exponential notation an that indicates the number of times the base is used as a factor.

exponential form | An equivalent expression written using a rational exponent.

exponential form | An equivalent expression written using a rational exponent.

exponential form | An equivalent expression written using a rational exponent.

exponential form | An equivalent expression written using a rational exponent.

exponential notation | The compact notation ax2+bx+c=0. used when a factor is repeated multiple times.

exponential notation | The compact notation ax2+bx+c=0. used when a factor is repeated multiple times.

extracting the roots | Applying the square root property as a means of solving a quadratic equation.

extracting the roots | Applying the square root property as a means of solving a quadratic equation.

extraneous solutions | A solution that does not solve the original equation.

extraneous solutions | A solution that does not solve the original equation.

extraneous solutions | A solution that does not solve the original equation.

extraneous solutions | A solution that does not solve the original equation.

factor by grouping | A technique for factoring polynomials with four terms.

factor by grouping | A technique for factoring polynomials with four terms.

factoring a polynomial | The process of rewriting a polynomial as a product of polynomial factors.

factoring a polynomial | The process of rewriting a polynomial as a product of polynomial factors.

Factoring out the GCF | The process of rewriting a polynomial as a product using the GCF of all of its terms.

Factoring out the GCF | The process of rewriting a polynomial as a product using the GCF of all of its terms.

factors | Any of the numbers or expressions that form a product.

factors | Any of the numbers or expressions that form a product.

factors | Any of the numbers or expressions that form a product.

factors | Any of the numbers or expressions that form a product.

FOIL | When multiplying binomials we apply the distributive property multiple times in such a way as to multiply the first terms, outer terms, inner terms, and last terms.

FOIL | When multiplying binomials we apply the distributive property multiple times in such a way as to multiply the first terms, outer terms, inner terms, and last terms.

formulas | A reusable mathematical model using algebraic expressions to describe a common application.

formulas | A reusable mathematical model using algebraic expressions to describe a common application.

functions | Relations where every x-value corresponds to exactly one y-value. With the definition comes new notation: f(x)=y, which is read “f of x is equal to y.”

functions | Relations where every x-value corresponds to exactly one y-value. With the definition comes new notation: f(x)=y, which is read “f of x is equal to y.”

fundamental theorem of algebra | Guarantees that there will be as many (or fewer) real solutions to a polynomial with one variable as its degree.

fundamental theorem of algebra | Guarantees that there will be as many (or fewer) real solutions to a polynomial with one variable as its degree.

GCF of a polynomial | The greatest common factor of all the terms of the polynomial.

GCF of a polynomial | The greatest common factor of all the terms of the polynomial.

GCF of monomials | The product of the GCF of the coefficients and all common variable factors.

GCF of monomials | The product of the GCF of the coefficients and all common variable factors.

graph | A point on the number line associated with a coordinate.

graph | A point on the number line associated with a coordinate.

graph | A point on the number line associated with a coordinate.

graph | A point on the number line associated with a coordinate.

graphing method | A means of solving a system by graphing the equations on the same set of axes and determining where they intersect.

graphing method | A means of solving a system by graphing the equations on the same set of axes and determining where they intersect.

greatest common factor (GCF) | The largest shared factor of any number of integers.

greatest common factor (GCF) | The largest shared factor of any number of integers.

greatest common factor (GCF) | The product of all the common prime factors.

greatest common factor (GCF) | The product of all the common prime factors.

grouping symbols | Parentheses, brackets, braces, and the fraction bar are the common symbols used to group expressions and mathematical operations within a computation.

grouping symbols | Parentheses, brackets, braces, and the fraction bar are the common symbols used to group expressions and mathematical operations within a computation.

guess and check | Used when referring to the trial and error method for factoring trinomials.

guess and check | Used when referring to the trial and error method for factoring trinomials.

horizontal line | Any line whose equation can be written in the form y = k, where k is a real number.

horizontal line | Any line whose equation can be written in the form y = k, where k is a real number.

identity | An equation that is true for all possible values.

identity | An equation that is true for all possible values.

imaginary numbers | The square roots of any negative real numbers.

imaginary numbers | The square roots of any negative real numbers.

imaginary part | The real number b of a complex number a+bi.

imaginary part | The real number b of a complex number a+bi.

imaginary unit | Defined as i=1 and i2=1.

imaginary unit | Defined as i=1 and i2=1.

inclusive inequalities | Use the symbol to express quantities that are “less than or equal to” and for quantities that are “greater than or equal to” each other.

inclusive inequalities | Use the symbol to express quantities that are “less than or equal to” and for quantities that are “greater than or equal to” each other.

inconsistent systems | A system with no simultaneous solution.

inconsistent systems | A system with no simultaneous solution.

independent systems | A system of equations with one ordered pair solution (x, y).

independent systems | A system of equations with one ordered pair solution (x, y).

indeterminate | A quotient such as 00, which is a quantity that is uncertain or ambiguous.

indeterminate | A quotient such as 00, which is a quantity that is uncertain or ambiguous.

index | The positive integer n in the notation n that is used to indicate an nth root.

index | The positive integer n in the notation n that is used to indicate an nth root.

infinity | The symbol (∞) indicates the interval is unbounded to the right.

infinity | The symbol (∞) indicates the interval is unbounded to the right.

integers | The set of positive and negative whole numbers combined with zero {…, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, …}.

integers | The set of positive and negative whole numbers combined with zero {…, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, …}.

interest and money problems | Applications involving simple interest and money.

interest and money problems | Applications involving simple interest and money.

intersection | The set formed by the shared values of the individual solution sets that is indicated by the logical use of the word “and,” denoted with the symbol .

intersection | The set formed by the shared values of the individual solution sets that is indicated by the logical use of the word “and,” denoted with the symbol .

interval notation | A textual system of expressing solutions to an algebraic inequality.

interval notation | A textual system of expressing solutions to an algebraic inequality.

inversely proportional | Used when referring to inverse variation.

inversely proportional | Used when referring to inverse variation.

Irrational numbers | Numbers that cannot be written as a ratio of two integers.

Irrational numbers | Numbers that cannot be written as a ratio of two integers.

jointly proportional | Used when referring to joint variation.

jointly proportional | Used when referring to joint variation.

leading coefficient | The coefficient of the term with the largest degree.

leading coefficient | The coefficient of the term with the largest degree.

least common denominator (LCD) | The least common multiple of a set of denominators.

least common denominator (LCD) | The least common multiple of a set of denominators.

least common multiple (LCM) | The smallest number that is evenly divisible by a set of numbers.

least common multiple (LCM) | The smallest number that is evenly divisible by a set of numbers.

line graph | A set of related data values graphed on a coordinate plane and connected by line segments.

line graph | A set of related data values graphed on a coordinate plane and connected by line segments.

linear equation with one variable | An equation that can be written in the general form ax+b=0, where a and b are real numbers and a0.

linear equation with one variable | An equation that can be written in the general form ax+b=0, where a and b are real numbers and a0.

linear equation with two variables | An equation with two variables that can be written in the standard form ax+by=c, where the real numbers a and b are not both zero.

linear equation with two variables | An equation with two variables that can be written in the standard form ax+by=c, where the real numbers a and b are not both zero.

linear function | Any function that can be written in the form f(x) = mx + b.

linear function | Any function that can be written in the form f(x) = mx + b.

Linear function | A polynomial function with degree 1.

Linear function | A polynomial function with degree 1.

linear inequality | A mathematical statement relating a linear expression as either less than or greater than another.

linear inequality | A mathematical statement relating a linear expression as either less than or greater than another.

linear inequality with two variables | An inequality relating linear expressions with two variables. The solution set is a region defining half of the plane.

linear inequality with two variables | An inequality relating linear expressions with two variables. The solution set is a region defining half of the plane.

linear systems | In this section, we restrict our study to systems of two linear equations with two variables.

linear systems | In this section, we restrict our study to systems of two linear equations with two variables.

literal equations | A formula that summarizes whole classes of problems.

literal equations | A formula that summarizes whole classes of problems.

midpoint | Given two points, (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), the midpoint is an ordered pair given by (x1+x22,y1+y22).

midpoint | Given two points, (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), the midpoint is an ordered pair given by (x1+x22,y1+y22).

mixed number | A number that represents the sum of a whole number and a fraction.

mixed number | A number that represents the sum of a whole number and a fraction.

Mixture problems | Applications involving a mixture of amounts usually given as a percentage of some total.

Mixture problems | Applications involving a mixture of amounts usually given as a percentage of some total.

Monomial | Polynomial with one term.

Monomial | Polynomial with one term.

Multiplicative identity property | Given any real number a, a1=1a=a.

Multiplicative identity property | Given any real number a, a1=1a=a.

natural (or counting) numbers | The set of counting numbers {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …}.

natural (or counting) numbers | The set of counting numbers {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …}.

negative exponents | xn=1xn, given any integer n, where x is nonzero.

negative exponents | xn=1xn, given any integer n, where x is nonzero.

negative infinity | The symbol (−∞) indicates the interval is unbounded to the left.

negative infinity | The symbol (−∞) indicates the interval is unbounded to the left.

nth root | The number that, when raised to the nth power, yields the original number.

nth root | The number that, when raised to the nth power, yields the original number.

odd integers | Integers that are not divisible by 2.

odd integers | Integers that are not divisible by 2.

opposite | Real numbers whose graphs are on opposite sides of the origin with the same distance to the origin.

opposite | Real numbers whose graphs are on opposite sides of the origin with the same distance to the origin.

opposite binomial property | If given a binomial ab, then the opposite is (ab)=ba.

opposite binomial property | If given a binomial ab, then the opposite is (ab)=ba.

opposite reciprocals | Two real numbers whose product is −1. Given a real number ab, the opposite reciprocal is ba.

opposite reciprocals | Two real numbers whose product is −1. Given a real number ab, the opposite reciprocal is ba.

opposite-side like terms | Like terms of an equation on opposite sides of the equal sign.

opposite-side like terms | Like terms of an equation on opposite sides of the equal sign.

order | To ensure a single correct result, perform mathematical operations in a specific order.

order | To ensure a single correct result, perform mathematical operations in a specific order.

origin | The point on the number line that represtents zero.

origin | The point on the number line that represtents zero.

origin | The point where the x- and y-axes cross, denoted by (0, 0).

origin | The point where the x- and y-axes cross, denoted by (0, 0).

parabola | The graph of any quadratic equation y=ax2+bx+c, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a0.

parabola | The graph of any quadratic equation y=ax2+bx+c, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a0.

Parallel lines | Lines in the same plane that do not intersect; their slopes are the same.

Parallel lines | Lines in the same plane that do not intersect; their slopes are the same.

percent | A representation of a number as part of 100: N%=N100.

percent | A representation of a number as part of 100: N%=N100.

perfect cube | The result of cubing an integer.

perfect cube | The result of cubing an integer.

perfect square | The result of squaring an integer.

perfect square | The result of squaring an integer.

perfect square trinomials | The trinomials obtained by squaring the binomials (a+b)2=a2+2ab+b2 and (ab)2=a22ab+b2.

perfect square trinomials | The trinomials obtained by squaring the binomials (a+b)2=a2+2ab+b2 and (ab)2=a22ab+b2.

perimeter | The sum of the lengths of all the outside edges of a polygon.

perimeter | The sum of the lengths of all the outside edges of a polygon.

Perimeter of a rectangle | P=2l+2w, where l represents the length and w represents the width.

Perimeter of a rectangle | P=2l+2w, where l represents the length and w represents the width.

Perimeter of a square | P=4s, where s represents the length of a side.

Perimeter of a square | P=4s, where s represents the length of a side.

Perimeter of a triangle | P=a+b+c, where a, b, and c each represents the length of a different side.

Perimeter of a triangle | P=a+b+c, where a, b, and c each represents the length of a different side.

pie chart | A circular graph divided into sectors whose area is proportional to the relative size of the ratio of the part to the total.

pie chart | A circular graph divided into sectors whose area is proportional to the relative size of the ratio of the part to the total.

placeholders | Terms with zero coefficients used to fill in all missing exponents within a polynomial.

placeholders | Terms with zero coefficients used to fill in all missing exponents within a polynomial.

point-slope form of a line | Any nonvertical line can be written in the form yy1= m(xx1), where m is the slope and (x1,y1) is any point on the line.

point-slope form of a line | Any nonvertical line can be written in the form yy1= m(xx1), where m is the slope and (x1,y1) is any point on the line.

polynomial | An algebraic expression consisting of terms with real number coefficients and variables with whole number exponents.

polynomial | An algebraic expression consisting of terms with real number coefficients and variables with whole number exponents.

Polynomial | An algebraic expression consisting of terms with real number coefficients and variables with whole number exponents.

Polynomial | An algebraic expression consisting of terms with real number coefficients and variables with whole number exponents.

polynomial long division | The process of dividing two polynomials using the division algorithm.

polynomial long division | The process of dividing two polynomials using the division algorithm.

polynomials with one variable | A polynomial where each term has the form anxn, where an is any real number and n is any whole number.

polynomials with one variable | A polynomial where each term has the form anxn, where an is any real number and n is any whole number.

power property of equality | Given any positive integer n and real numbers a and b, where a=b, then an=bn.

power property of equality | Given any positive integer n and real numbers a and b, where a=b, then an=bn.

power rule for a product | (xy)n=xnyn; if a product is raised to a power, then apply that power to each factor in the product.

power rule for a product | (xy)n=xnyn; if a product is raised to a power, then apply that power to each factor in the product.

power rule for a quotient | (xy)n=xnyn; if a quotient is raised to a power, then apply that power to the numerator and the denominator.

power rule for a quotient | (xy)n=xnyn; if a quotient is raised to a power, then apply that power to the numerator and the denominator.

power rule for exponents | (xm)n=xmn; a power raised to a power can be simplified by multiplying the exponents.

power rule for exponents | (xm)n=xmn; a power raised to a power can be simplified by multiplying the exponents.

prime factorization | The unique factorization of a natural number written as a product of primes.

prime factorization | The unique factorization of a natural number written as a product of primes.

prime factorization | The unique factorization of a natural number written as a product of primes.

prime factorization | The unique factorization of a natural number written as a product of primes.

prime number | Integers greater than 1 that are divisible only by 1 and itself.

prime number | Integers greater than 1 that are divisible only by 1 and itself.

prime polynomial | A polynomial with integer coefficients that cannot be factored as a product of polynomials with integer coefficients other than 1 and itself.

prime polynomial | A polynomial with integer coefficients that cannot be factored as a product of polynomials with integer coefficients other than 1 and itself.

principal (nonnegative) nth root | The positive nth root when n is even.

principal (nonnegative) nth root | The positive nth root when n is even.

principal (nonnegative) square root | The non-negative square root.

principal (nonnegative) square root | The non-negative square root.

principal (nonnegative) square root | The positive square root of a real number, denoted with the symbol .

principal (nonnegative) square root | The positive square root of a real number, denoted with the symbol .

product of complex conjugates | The real number that results from multiplying complex conjugates: (a+bi)(abi)=a2+b2.

product of complex conjugates | The real number that results from multiplying complex conjugates: (a+bi)(abi)=a2+b2.

product rule for exponents | xmxn=xm+n; the product of two expressions with the same base can be simplified by adding the exponents.

product rule for exponents | xmxn=xm+n; the product of two expressions with the same base can be simplified by adding the exponents.

Product rule for radicals | abn=anbn, where a and b represent positive real numbers.

Product rule for radicals | abn=anbn, where a and b represent positive real numbers.

properties of equality | Properties that allow us to obtain equivalent equations by adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing both sides of an equation by nonzero real numbers.

properties of equality | Properties that allow us to obtain equivalent equations by adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing both sides of an equation by nonzero real numbers.

properties of inequalities | Properties used to obtain equivalent inequalities and used as a means to solve them.

properties of inequalities | Properties used to obtain equivalent inequalities and used as a means to solve them.

proportion | A statement of the equality of two ratios.

proportion | A statement of the equality of two ratios.

Pythagorean theorem | Given any right triangle with legs measuring a and b units and hypotenuse measuring c units, then a2+b2=c2.

Pythagorean theorem | Given any right triangle with legs measuring a and b units and hypotenuse measuring c units, then a2+b2=c2.

Pythagorean theorem | Given any right triangle with legs measuring a and b units and hypotenuse measuring c units, then a2+b2=c2.

Pythagorean theorem | Given any right triangle with legs measuring a and b units and hypotenuse measuring c units, then a2+b2=c2.

Pythagorean theorem | Given any right triangle with legs measuring a and b units and hypotenuse measuring c units, then a2+b2=c2.

Pythagorean theorem | Given any right triangle with legs measuring a and b units and hypotenuse measuring c units, then a2+b2=c2.

quadrants | The four regions of a rectangular coordinate plane partly bounded by the x- and y-axes and numbered using the roman numerals I, II, III, and IV.

quadrants | The four regions of a rectangular coordinate plane partly bounded by the x- and y-axes and numbered using the roman numerals I, II, III, and IV.

quadratic formula | The formula x=b±b24ac2a, which gives the solutions to any quadratic equation in the form ax2+bx+c=0, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a0.

quadratic formula | The formula x=b±b24ac2a, which gives the solutions to any quadratic equation in the form ax2+bx+c=0, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a0.

Quadratic function | A polynomial function with degree 2.

Quadratic function | A polynomial function with degree 2.

quotient | The result after dividing.

quotient | The result after dividing.

quotient rule for exponents | xmxn=xmn; the quotient of two expressions with the same base can be simplified by subtracting the exponents.

quotient rule for exponents | xmxn=xmn; the quotient of two expressions with the same base can be simplified by subtracting the exponents.

Quotient rule for radicals | abn=anbn, where a and b represent positive real numbers.

Quotient rule for radicals | abn=anbn, where a and b represent positive real numbers.

quotients with negative exponents | xnym=ymxn, given any integers m and n, where x0 and y0.

quotients with negative exponents | xnym=ymxn, given any integers m and n, where x0 and y0.

radical | Used when referring to an expression of the form an.

radical | Used when referring to an expression of the form an.

radical equation | Any equation that contains one or more radicals with a variable in the radicand.

radical equation | Any equation that contains one or more radicals with a variable in the radicand.

radical expression | An algebraic expression that contains radicals.

radical expression | An algebraic expression that contains radicals.

radicand | The expression a within a radical sign, an.

radicand | The expression a within a radical sign, an.

radicand | The expression a within a radical sign, an.

radicand | The expression a within a radical sign, an.

range | The set of second components of a relation. The y-values define the range in relations consisting of points (x, y) in the rectangular coordinate plane.

range | The set of second components of a relation. The y-values define the range in relations consisting of points (x, y) in the rectangular coordinate plane.

rate | A ratio where the units for the numerator and the denominator are different.

rate | A ratio where the units for the numerator and the denominator are different.

ratio | Relationship between two numbers or quantities usually expressed as a quotient.

ratio | Relationship between two numbers or quantities usually expressed as a quotient.

ratio | Relationship between two numbers or quantities usually expressed as a quotient.

ratio | Relationship between two numbers or quantities usually expressed as a quotient.

rational (or fractional) exponents | The fractional exponent m/n that indicates a radical with index n and exponent m: am/n=amn.

rational (or fractional) exponents | The fractional exponent m/n that indicates a radical with index n and exponent m: am/n=amn.

rational equation | An equation containing at least one rational expression.

rational equation | An equation containing at least one rational expression.

Rational numbers | Numbers of the form ab, where a and b are integers and b is nonzero.

Rational numbers | Numbers of the form ab, where a and b are integers and b is nonzero.

rationalizing the denominator | The process of determining an equivalent radical expression with a rational denominator.

rationalizing the denominator | The process of determining an equivalent radical expression with a rational denominator.

real numbers | The set of all rational and irrational numbers.

real numbers | The set of all rational and irrational numbers.

reciprocal | The reciprocal of a nonzero number n is 1/n.

reciprocal | The reciprocal of a nonzero number n is 1/n.

reciprocals | The reciprocal of a nonzero number n is 1/n.

reciprocals | The reciprocal of a nonzero number n is 1/n.

reducing | The process of finding equivalent fractions by dividing the numerator and the denominator by common factors.

reducing | The process of finding equivalent fractions by dividing the numerator and the denominator by common factors.

reducing to lowest terms | Finding equivalent fractions where the numerator and the denominator share no common integer factor other than 1.

reducing to lowest terms | Finding equivalent fractions where the numerator and the denominator share no common integer factor other than 1.

relatively prime | Expressions that share no common factors other than 1.

relatively prime | Expressions that share no common factors other than 1.

remainder | The expression that is left after the division algorithm ends.

remainder | The expression that is left after the division algorithm ends.

restrictions | The set of real numbers for which a rational expression is not defined.

restrictions | The set of real numbers for which a rational expression is not defined.

root | A solution to a quadratic equation in standard form.

root | A solution to a quadratic equation in standard form.

root | A solution to a quadratic equation in standard form.

root | A solution to a quadratic equation in standard form.

round off | A means of approximating decimals with a specified number of significant digits.

round off | A means of approximating decimals with a specified number of significant digits.

run | The horizontal change between any two points on a line.

run | The horizontal change between any two points on a line.

same-side like terms | Like terms of an equation on the same side of the equal sign.

same-side like terms | Like terms of an equation on the same side of the equal sign.

satisfy the equation | After replacing the variable with a solution and simplifying, it produces a true statement.

satisfy the equation | After replacing the variable with a solution and simplifying, it produces a true statement.

scale factor | The reduced ratio of any two corresponding sides of similar triangles.

scale factor | The reduced ratio of any two corresponding sides of similar triangles.

scientific notation | Real numbers expressed in the form a×10n, where n is an integer and 1a<10.

scientific notation | Real numbers expressed in the form a×10n, where n is an integer and 1a<10.

set-builder notation | A system for describing sets using familiar mathematical notation.

set-builder notation | A system for describing sets using familiar mathematical notation.

similar radicals | Term used when referring to like radicals.

similar radicals | Term used when referring to like radicals.

similar terms | Used when referring to like terms.

similar terms | Used when referring to like terms.

similar triangles | Triangles with the same shape but not necessarily the same size. The measures of corresponding angles are equal and the corresponding sides are proportional.

similar triangles | Triangles with the same shape but not necessarily the same size. The measures of corresponding angles are equal and the corresponding sides are proportional.

Simple interest | Modeled by the formula I=prt, where p represents the principal amount invested at an annual interest rate r for t years.

Simple interest | Modeled by the formula I=prt, where p represents the principal amount invested at an annual interest rate r for t years.

simplified | A radical where the radicand does not consist of any factor that can be written as a perfect power of the index.

simplified | A radical where the radicand does not consist of any factor that can be written as a perfect power of the index.

simplifying the expression | The process of combining like terms until the expression contains no more similar terms.

simplifying the expression | The process of combining like terms until the expression contains no more similar terms.

simultaneous solution | Used when referring to a solution of a system of equations.

simultaneous solution | Used when referring to a solution of a system of equations.

slope formula | Given two points (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), then the slope of the line is given by the formula m=riserun=y2y1x2x1.

slope formula | Given two points (x1,y1) and (x2,y2), then the slope of the line is given by the formula m=riserun=y2y1x2x1.

slope-intercept form | Any nonvertical line can be written in the form y=mx+b, where m is the slope and (0, b) is the y-intercept.

slope-intercept form | Any nonvertical line can be written in the form y=mx+b, where m is the slope and (0, b) is the y-intercept.

solution | Any value that can replace the variable in an equation to produce a true statement.

solution | Any value that can replace the variable in an equation to produce a true statement.

solution to a linear inequality | A real number that produces a true statement when its value is substituted for the variable.

solution to a linear inequality | A real number that produces a true statement when its value is substituted for the variable.

solve by factoring | The process of solving an equation that is equal to zero by factoring it and then setting each variable factor equal to zero.

solve by factoring | The process of solving an equation that is equal to zero by factoring it and then setting each variable factor equal to zero.

square | The result when the exponent of any real number is 2.

square | The result when the exponent of any real number is 2.

square root | The number that, when multiplied by itself, yields the original number.

square root | The number that, when multiplied by itself, yields the original number.

square root function | The function f(x)=x.

square root function | The function f(x)=x.

square root property | For any real number k, if x2=k, then x=±k.

square root property | For any real number k, if x2=k, then x=±k.

squaring property of equality | Given real numbers a and b, where a=b, then a2=b2.

squaring property of equality | Given real numbers a and b, where a=b, then a2=b2.

standard form | A quadratic equation written in the form ax2+bx+c=0.

standard form | A quadratic equation written in the form ax2+bx+c=0.

standard form | Any quadratic equation in the form ax2+bx+c=0, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a0.

standard form | Any quadratic equation in the form ax2+bx+c=0, where a, b, and c are real numbers and a0.

Strict inequalities | Express ordering relationships using the symbol < for “less than” and > for “greater than.”

Strict inequalities | Express ordering relationships using the symbol < for “less than” and > for “greater than.”

substitute | The act of replacing a variable with an equivalent quantity.

substitute | The act of replacing a variable with an equivalent quantity.

substitution method | A means of solving a linear system by solving for one of the variables and substituting the result into the other equation.

substitution method | A means of solving a linear system by solving for one of the variables and substituting the result into the other equation.

subtracting polynomials | The process of subtracting all the terms of one polynomial from another and combining like terms.

subtracting polynomials | The process of subtracting all the terms of one polynomial from another and combining like terms.

sum of squares | a2+b2 does not have a general factored equivalent.

sum of squares | a2+b2 does not have a general factored equivalent.

symmetric property | Allows you to solve for the variable on either side of the equal sign, because 5=x is equivalent to x=5.

symmetric property | Allows you to solve for the variable on either side of the equal sign, because 5=x is equivalent to x=5.

system of linear inequalities | A set of two or more linear inequalities that define the conditions to be considered simultaneously.

system of linear inequalities | A set of two or more linear inequalities that define the conditions to be considered simultaneously.

test points | A point not on the boundary of the linear inequality used as a means to determine in which half-plane the solutions lie.

test points | A point not on the boundary of the linear inequality used as a means to determine in which half-plane the solutions lie.

Trinomial | Polynomial with three terms.

Trinomial | Polynomial with three terms.

undefined | A quotient such as 50, which is left without meaning and is not assigned an interpretation.

undefined | A quotient such as 50, which is left without meaning and is not assigned an interpretation.

Uniform motion | Described by the formula D=rt, where the distance D is given as the product of the average rate r and the time t traveled at that rate.

Uniform motion | Described by the formula D=rt, where the distance D is given as the product of the average rate r and the time t traveled at that rate.

Uniform motion | Described by the formula D=rt, where the distance, D, is given as the product of the average rate, r, and the time, t, traveled at that rate.

Uniform motion | Described by the formula D=rt, where the distance, D, is given as the product of the average rate, r, and the time, t, traveled at that rate.

uniform motion problems | Applications relating distance, average rate, and time.

uniform motion problems | Applications relating distance, average rate, and time.

union | The set formed by joining the individual solution sets indicated by the logical use of the word “or” and denoted with the symbol .

union | The set formed by joining the individual solution sets indicated by the logical use of the word “or” and denoted with the symbol .

unit cost | The price of each unit.

unit cost | The price of each unit.

unlike denominators | Denominators of fractions that are not the same.

unlike denominators | Denominators of fractions that are not the same.

varies inversely | Describes two quantities x and y, where one variable is directly proportional to the reciprocal of the other: y=kx.

varies inversely | Describes two quantities x and y, where one variable is directly proportional to the reciprocal of the other: y=kx.

varies jointly | Describes a quantity y that varies directly as the product of two other quantities x and z: y=kxz.

varies jointly | Describes a quantity y that varies directly as the product of two other quantities x and z: y=kxz.

vertical line | Any line whose equation can be written in the form x = k, where k is a real number.

vertical line | Any line whose equation can be written in the form x = k, where k is a real number.

vertical line test | If a vertical line intersects a graph more than once, then the graph does not represent a function.

vertical line test | If a vertical line intersects a graph more than once, then the graph does not represent a function.

whole numbers | The set of natural numbers combined with zero {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …}.

whole numbers | The set of natural numbers combined with zero {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, …}.

work rate | The rate at which a task can be performed.

work rate | The rate at which a task can be performed.

work-rate formula | 1t1t+1t2t=1, where 1t1 and 1t2 are the individual work rates and t is the time it takes to complete the task working together.

work-rate formula | 1t1t+1t2t=1, where 1t1 and 1t2 are the individual work rates and t is the time it takes to complete the task working together.

y-intercept | The point (or points) where a graph intersects the y-axis, expressed as an ordered pair (0, y).

y-intercept | The point (or points) where a graph intersects the y-axis, expressed as an ordered pair (0, y).

zero as an exponent | x0=1; any nonzero base raised to the 0 power is defined to be 1.

zero as an exponent | x0=1; any nonzero base raised to the 0 power is defined to be 1.

Zero factor property | Given any real number a, a0=0a=0.

Zero factor property | Given any real number a, a0=0a=0.

zero-product property | Any product is equal to zero if and only if at least one of the factors is zero.

zero-product property | Any product is equal to zero if and only if at least one of the factors is zero.

Support Center

How can we help?