Question

What is pre-algebra in Maths ?

Answer 1

Hint: Pre-algebra as the name suggests is an area in mathematics to provide insight and introductory knowledge about algebra. It is a stepping stone in order to solve algebra. Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with symbols and the rules that govern their manipulation.

Complete answer:
Pre-algebra is a common term for a middle school mathematics course. Its aim is to prepare students for their algebra studies. Pre-algebra, as a step between arithmetic and algebra, assists in overcoming such conceptual barriers. We can learn that an “equals” symbol means that two sides are identical and can be manipulated together, rather than simply being the answer to a question as in simple arithmetic. We also learn how to apply the same principles to numbers, variables, and terms.

It includes topics such as:
Factors and Primes: Factoring and finding out prime and common factors. For example- To find out the factor of prime number.
GCF and LCM : Greatest Common Factor and Least Common Multiple help us in factoring the equation. For e.g. – To find out GCF and LCM of two numbers \[12\] and \[16\]. since \[1\], \[2\], and \[4\]are common factors of both \[12\] and \[16\], and \[4\] is the greatest of them, the GCF of \[12\] and \[16\] is \[4\] and LCM of \[12\] and \[16\] is\[1\], \[2\], and \[4\].

Fractions: It is important to study fractions because most of the equations in algebra requires application of the same.
Square Roots Finding out the square root of a number helps to simplify and solve equations having power two or more. For e.g: simplify the square root of \[36\]is \[\sqrt {36} = \sqrt {6 \times 6} = 6\]
Basic Equations: One should be familiar with using alphabets and variables in solving algebraic equations.

Note: It is important to study pre-algebra because solving algebraic equations requires in-depth knowledge and practice. Topics such as finding out area and volume in geometry, finding out probability, statistics, physics etc. can be solved easily and speedily if pre-algebra concepts are strong.