2007-11-04 04:59:15 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Mathematics
In Algebra we solve for an unknown. In arithmetic all the numbers are right in front of us.
2 + 6 = 8
2 + X = 8 X is unknown. Of course we know that answer!
2007-11-04 05:07:41 · answer #1 · answered by gzlakewood@sbcglobal.net 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The difference is that algebra involves "al-gebra" or "the unknow". It will have a value that is represented by a symbol, such as the letter "x".
Arithmetic is only numbers and math operand, such as 2+2=. You simply do the operand to get the solution.
With algebra, you get an equation, such as 2x=8. You then have to manipulate the equation until you have the "unknow" or "x" on one side of the equation, and the numbers and operands on the other (such as x=8/2). Then you use arithmetic to perform the operands and solve the equation (x=4).
2007-11-04 13:12:01 · answer #2 · answered by dewcoons 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've noticed that our local school district (so. California) doesn't teach "arithmetic" anymore. It's all "mathematics" from the start.
They are technically correct, as arithmetic is a branch of mathematics, but I think they call it math mainly because it sounds more impressive.
2007-11-04 13:23:51 · answer #3 · answered by DWRead 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Arithmetic works with integer number and their operations only.
Algebra works with all abstract mathematical objects (including integer, real, complex... number) and their operations and from these algebra built all mathematical models for whole mathematics.
One part of algebra is generalized from arithmetic.
2007-11-04 13:17:05 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋