CONTENTS. Definitions-Entire Quantity-Mixed Quantity, To Reduce a Fraction to its Simplest Terms To Reduce a Mixed Quantity to a Fraction, Definition of an Equation-Properties of Equations, Transformation of Equations-First and Second, Resolution of Equations of the First Degree-Rule, Questions involving Equations of the First Degree, FIRST LESSONS IN ALGEBRA. CHAPTER I. Preliminary Definitions and Remarks. 1. QUANTITY is a general term embracing every thing which can be increased or diminished. 2. MATHEMATICS is the science of quantity. 3. ALGEBRA is that branch of mathematics in which the quantities considered are represented by letters, and the operations to be performed upon them are indicated by signs. These letters and signs are called symbols. 4. The sign+, is called plus; and indicates the addition of two or more quantities. Thus, 9+5, is read, 9 plus 5, or 9 augmented by 5. If we represent the number nine, by the letter a, and the number 5 by the letter b, we shall have a+b, which is read, a plus b; and denotes that the number represented by a is to be added to the number represented by b. 5. The sign, is called minus; and indicates that one QUEST.-1. What is quantity? 2. What is Mathematics? 3. What is Algebra? What are these letters and signs called? 4. What does the sign plus indicate? 5. What does the sign minus indicate? |