Mrs. Agriesti's Algebra I Notes
1.2 & 1.3 Variables in Algebra, Exponents and Powers
Objective:
To evaluate variable expressions including expressions with exponents.
Vocabulary
- Variable - a letter used to represent one or more numbers (It's called a variable because its value varies).
- Algebraic Expression - a collection of numbers, variables, operations, and grouping symbols.
- Exponent - a number used to represent repeated multiplication.
- ex: 53 = 5 · 5 · 5.
Five is the base, 3 is the exponent; 53 is called a power.
- Algebraic Equation - an algebraic expression with an equal sign.
Notes:
How to Read an Exponent
- 92 is read "nine to the second power" or "nine squared".
- 93 is read "nine to the third power" or " nine cubed".
- 94 is read "nine to the fourth power".
Examples:
