what is the point of algebra?

Question

I mean why confuse things by changing numbers to letters?

Answer 1

I was of exactly the same opinion until I studied Physics. Thats when you realise why being able to handle equations with letters is important - when the letters actually mean something. e.g:

s = d/t where s = speed, d = distance and t = time.

Answer 2

The point of algebra is to show that an equation (and solution) will work for all available numbers. It is easy to show a single option works, but this is not enough. By using letters instead of numbers, you show it will always work.

Answer 3

Think of a simple problem like:

"Linda gave 3 marbles to Paul, and now she has 5. How many marbles did Linda have in the first place?"

The solution is 5+3=8, but how did you know to add 5 and 3? Fact is, your unknown quantity (called x) had a property described in the problem - namely, that if you have x marbles and remove 3, you get 5. In short... x - 3 = 5.

Face it... you have been doing algebra since grade 2 or 3. It just wasn't called that.

Answer 4

Sometimes, in life, you have some of the parts of a problem, but not all. Algebra teaches you how to use the parts you have to deduce what the remaining parts are. This is a very, very valuable skill, and that way of thinking is beneficial to your broader life, beyond just mathematics.

Answer 5

Algebra is very beneficial when:

1. When you do not know about the actual numbers
2. When complicated deductions are required with more than one variable.

Answer 6

How about this: Algebra is a requirement for graduation. If you want to graduate from high school, you better learn algebra.

Answer 7

Algebra teaches you equations you may need later in life and it also gets you thinking logically!

Answer 8

There is no point in algebra. You're confusing it with arithmetic.

Answer 9

So that you can learn to think and reason abstractly and logically.


Doug