Mathematical Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering core algebraic definitions and concepts from the lecture notes.

EXPRESSION

An arrangement of mathematical symbols (numbers, variables, operations, etc.) representing a single value or quantity

EQUATION

A mathematical statement with an equal sign saying that two expressions are equal in value

INTERCEPT

A point where a graph crosses or touches the $x$-axis or $y$-axis

SOLUTION

An assignment of value(s) to variable(s) that makes an equation (or other mathematical statement) true

SOLVE

To find all solutions of an equation (or similar mathematical statement)

EVALUATE

To give the numerical value of some expression

ZERO PRODUCT RULE

The statement that whenever a product of factors is equal to $0$, then at least one of the factors was equal to $0$

COORDINATE

A number representing the position of a point in some direction (Each point on the number line has only one coordinate, while a point in the plane has an $x$-coordinate and a $y$-coordinate.)

SIMPLIFY

To rewrite a number or expression in a shorter/easier form without changing its value

FACTOR (as a verb)

To write an expression as a product of two or more expressions

UNIT CIRCLE

The circle (in the $xy$-plane) with a radius of $1$ and center at $(0,0)$

Radian

the measure of a central angle in a circle whose (minor) arc is exactly as long as the radius  [It might be easier to draw a picture of this than to recite the verbal definition.]

Reciprocal

the reciprocal of a nonzero number x is 1/x.  If x is a fraction a/b, then its reciprocal is the fraction b/a.  (Some of you have been saying “opposite” instead of the correct name for this!)