Detailed Summary
In this section, we explore the foundational aspects of linear equations in one variable. Linear equations are characterized by having the highest power of the variable as 1, leading to straight-line graph representations when plotted. We begin by differentiating between algebraic expressions and equations, emphasizing that equations use the equality sign =. For instance, expressions like 5x, 2x - 3, or 3x + y can represent various algebraic forms, while equations like 5x = 25 or 2x - 3 = 9 imply equality between two expressions.
A significant focus is on linear expressions defined as expressions where the variable's highest power is in the first degree. Examples such as 2x + 1 and 3y - 7 are classified as linear, while expressions like x^2 + 1 are not. The section continues by revising how to identify the Left Hand Side (LHS) and Right Hand Side (RHS) of an equation and emphasizes the importance of finding the solution. The solution is defined as the value (or values) of the variable that makes the equation true. Additionally, we cover techniques for solving equations, reinforcing that the same mathematical operations can be performed on both sides to maintain balance. This introduction lays the groundwork for further exploration of solving equations involving one variable.