Addition Property of Equality

Definition

The addition property of equality states that if two expressions are equal, adding the same number to both sides of the equation will result in two new equal expressions. This fundamental principle allows for the manipulation of equations to isolate variables and solve for unknown values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The addition property of equality allows for the addition of the same constant to both sides of an equation, maintaining the equality between the two expressions.
2. This property is essential in solving equations with variables and constants on both sides, as it enables the isolation of the variable term.
3. The addition property of equality is a fundamental step in the general strategy for solving linear equations, which involves isolating the variable through a series of algebraic manipulations.
4. Applying the addition property of equality can help simplify equations and make them easier to solve, as it allows for the removal of constant terms from one side of the equation.
5. Understanding the addition property of equality is crucial in developing the skills to solve a wide range of linear equations, which are commonly encountered in elementary algebra.

Review Questions

• Explain how the addition property of equality can be used to solve equations with variables and constants on both sides.
  • The addition property of equality states that if two expressions are equal, adding the same number to both sides of the equation will result in two new equal expressions. This property is essential in solving equations with variables and constants on both sides, as it allows for the isolation of the variable term. By adding the same constant to both sides of the equation, the variable can be moved to one side, while the constants are moved to the other side, making the equation easier to solve for the unknown value.
• Describe the role of the addition property of equality in the general strategy for solving linear equations.
  • The addition property of equality is a crucial step in the general strategy for solving linear equations. This strategy involves isolating the variable term by performing a series of algebraic manipulations, including the addition property of equality. By adding the same constant to both sides of the equation, the variable can be moved to one side, allowing for the determination of its value. The addition property of equality is often used in conjunction with other properties, such as the subtraction property of equality, to simplify the equation and arrive at the solution.
• Analyze how the addition property of equality can be used to simplify equations and make them easier to solve.
  • $$\text{The addition property of equality can be used to simplify equations and make them easier to solve in several ways:}$$ 1. \text{It allows for the removal of constant terms from one side of the equation, reducing the complexity of the equation.} 2. \text{By adding the same constant to both sides, the variable term can be isolated, making it easier to determine its value.} 3. \text{The addition property of equality can be combined with other algebraic manipulations, such as the subtraction property, to further simplify the equation and arrive at the solution.} 4. \text{Understanding and applying the addition property of equality is a fundamental skill in solving a wide range of linear equations, which are commonly encountered in elementary algebra.} 5. \text{Mastering the addition property of equality is crucial for developing the problem-solving abilities necessary to tackle more complex algebraic problems.}

Related terms

Subtraction Property of Equality: The subtraction property of equality states that if two expressions are equal, subtracting the same number from both sides of the equation will result in two new equal expressions.

Linear Equation: A linear equation is an algebraic equation in which the highest exponent of the variable is 1, and the variables and constants are connected by addition, subtraction, or equality.

Isolating Variables: The process of manipulating an equation to move all the variable terms to one side and all the constant terms to the other side, allowing for the determination of the variable's value.