How to Use the Equal Sign in Equations and Everyday Maths
The concept of equal sign is essential in mathematics and helps in solving real-world and exam-level problems efficiently.
Understanding Equal Sign
An equal sign (=) is a mathematical symbol used to show that two expressions have the same value. This concept is widely used in equations, arithmetic operations, and algebra. It is one of the first symbols students learn in maths and is fundamental for understanding balance in mathematical statements.
How to Identify and Write the Equal Sign (=)
The equal sign is written as two small parallel horizontal lines: =. It can be found on every calculator and keyboard, usually near the backspace or number row. When you write = between two values, it tells us they are equal in quantity or value.
For example, on a typical keyboard, the equal sign shares a key with the plus sign (+), above the letters. On a calculator, you often find it at the bottom row, used to get results.
Meaning & Usage of the Equal Sign
The equal sign connects two sides of a mathematical statement and shows both sides have the same value. Here are some common usages:
- In arithmetic: 5 + 7 = 12 (both sides have the same value)
- In algebra: x = 10 (x is equal to 10)
- In geometry: Perimeter of a square = 4 × side
Without an equal sign, a mathematical statement is not an equation. The symbol helps students to solve problems step-by-step and check if calculations are correct.
Working with the Equal Sign – Step-by-Step Example
Let’s see a simple problem using the equal sign.
1. Start with the equation: 3x + 5 = 20
2. Subtract 5 from both sides to keep the equation balanced:
3x + 5 - 5 = 20 - 5
3x = 15
3. Divide both sides by 3 to find x:
3x/3 = 15/3
x = 5
The equal sign ensures each operation maintains the balance between both sides.
Related Symbols and Their Meaning
It is important not to confuse the equal sign with other similar mathematical symbols. Below is a helpful table:
Common Maths Symbols Related to Equality
| Symbol | Name | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| = | Equal to | Exactly the same value |
| ≠ | Not equal to | Values are not the same |
| ≈ | Approximately equal | Close but not exactly equal |
| ≡ | Identical to | Always equal (identically); often used in proofs or congruence |
| ≥ | Greater than or equal to | Value is either greater or the same |
| ≤ | Less than or equal to | Value is either less or the same |
Always check which symbol is used in the question to avoid mistakes in exams.
Applications of Equal Sign in Real Life and Exams
The equal sign appears in many real-life and exam questions. For example:
1. Board exam: Solve for y: y + 8 = 15
y = 15 - 8 = 7
2. Word problem: If the sum of two numbers is 20, and one number is 8, what is the other number?
other number = 20 - 8 = 12
3. Geometry: Area of a rectangle = length × width
If length = 6cm, width = 3cm
Area = 6 × 3 = 18cm²
In each case, the equal sign shows the result of a calculation or defines a relationship between numbers.
Fun Facts about the Equal Sign
- The equal sign (=) was invented by Welsh mathematician Robert Recorde in 1557.
- The triple equal sign (≡) is often used to mean "identical to" in mathematics.
- Equal sign tattoos are used as a symbol of equality and have become popular in modern culture.
- In pop culture, songs (like "Equal Sign" by J-Hope) use the = symbol to talk about fairness or balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mixing up the equal sign (=) with other symbols like ≈ (approximately) or ≠ (not equal).
- Omitting the equal sign when writing an equation or solution.
- Placing answers on the wrong side of the equal sign in word problems.
- Not checking if both sides are actually equal after calculations.
Real-World Applications
The concept of equal sign appears in areas such as accounting, science equations, computer programming, and daily calculations (like shopping or recipes). Vedantu helps students see how maths applies beyond the classroom by connecting simple symbols like the equal sign to real-world logic and problem-solving.
We explored the idea of equal sign, how to apply it, solve related problems, and understand its real-life relevance. Practice more with Vedantu to build confidence in these concepts.
FAQs on Equal Sign (=) in Maths: Meaning, Symbol & Key Examples
1. What is the equal sign in mathematics?
The equal sign (=) is a mathematical symbol that means "is the same as" or "equals." It indicates that the values or expressions on both sides have the same value. For example, in the equation 3 + 2 = 5, both sides represent the number 5.
2. How do you write the equal sign on a keyboard or calculator?
To write the equal sign (=), press the key labeled '=' on your keyboard, usually found near the backspace key or above the number row. On calculators, the '=' button is clearly marked and used to calculate or show the result of an expression.
3. What does '=' mean in math equations?
The symbol '=' means that the two expressions on either side are equal in value. It shows balance or equivalence in an equation. For example, 7 = 4 + 3 shows that 7 is equal to the sum of 4 and 3.
4. What is the difference between the equal sign (=) and the not equal sign (≠)?
The equal sign (=) shows that two values are the same, while the not equal sign (≠) indicates that two values are different or not the same. For example, 5 = 5 is true, but 5 ≠ 3 because 5 is not equal to 3.
5. What does the approximately equal sign (≈) mean in maths?
The approximately equal sign (≈) means the values are close but not exactly equal. It is used when an answer is rounded or estimated, such as 3.14 ≈ π (pi), showing that 3.14 is an approximate value of pi.
6. How is the equal sign used in word problems?
In word problems, the equal sign (=) is used to represent the balance or solution between two expressions derived from the problem. It helps translate real-world situations into mathematical equations to find unknown values.
7. Why is the equal sign important in algebra and solving equations?
The equal sign is essential in algebra because it establishes a relationship of equality between two expressions. It allows us to solve for unknown variables by maintaining balance and performing the same operations on both sides of the equation.
8. Why do some students confuse '=' with '≥' or '≈' symbols?
Students often confuse '=' with '≥' (greater than or equal to) or '≈' (approximately equal) because these symbols look similar and relate to comparisons. Understanding each symbol's precise meaning and usage avoids mistakes in interpretation and solving problems.
9. How can using the wrong symbol affect your board exam marks?
Using the wrong symbol, such as replacing '=' with '≠' or '≥', can lead to incorrect answers and loss of marks because it changes the meaning of the equation. Accurate symbol usage demonstrates clear understanding and precision, which are rewarded in exams.
10. Why does the equal sign sometimes have extra lines (≡) in maths proofs?
The equal sign with three lines (≡) is called the identical to or equivalence sign. It means that two expressions are not just equal but are identically or universally equal under all conditions, often used in proofs and congruence relations.
11. What do equal sign tattoos represent outside of mathematics?
Equal sign tattoos often symbolize equality, justice, and human rights. They have become popular as a statement supporting social causes such as marriage equality, gender equality, and fairness.
12. Why is '=' used differently in computer programming and calculators?
In computer programming, '=' often means assignment (giving a value to a variable) rather than equality, while '==' or '===' is used to test equality. Calculators use '=' to show results of calculations. These contextual differences are important for avoiding confusion.
