Introduction To Algebra: A Puzzle
Introduction To Algebra: A Puzzle
A Puzzle
What is the missing number?
- 2 = 4
OK, the answer is 6, right? Because 6 - 2 = 4. Easy stuff. Well, in Algebra we don't use blank boxes, we use a letter (usually an x or y, but any letter is fine). So we would write:
x - 2 = 4
It is really that simple. The letter (in this case an x) just means "we don't know this yet", and is often called theunknown or the variable. And when you solve it you write:
x
Why Use a Letter?
Because:
it is easier to write "x" than drawing empty boxes (and easier to say "x" than "the empty box"). if there were several empty boxes (several "unknowns") we can use a different letter for each one. So
x is simply better than having an empty box. We aren't trying to make words with it! x, it could be y or w ... or any letter or symbol you like.
How to Solve
Algebra is just like a puzzle where you start with something like "x-2 = 4" and you want to end up with something like "x = 6". But instead of saying "obviously x=6", use this neat step-by-step approach: Work out what to remove to get "x = ..." Remove it by doing the opposite (adding is the opposite of subtracting) Do that to both sides
Do it to both sides:
Which is ...
Solved!
In Balance
Out of Balance!
In Balance Again
Just remember this: To keep the balance, what you do to one side of the "=" you should also do to the other side!
Another Puzzle
Solve this one:
x + 5 = 12
Start with:
x + 5 = 12
What you are aiming for is an answer like "x = ...", and the plus 5 is in the way of that! If you subtract 5 you can cancel out the plus 5 (because 5-5=0)
x+5 -5 = 12 -5
x+0 = 7
Which is just:
x=7 Solved!