Algebra
Algebra is a system for generalising arithmetical operations to show mathematical relationships. Massey University's Maths First website contains detailed information about algebra.
Additional interactive content is included below.
Expansion (removing brackets)
When removing brackets by expanding, the quantity outside the brackets multiplies with each quantity inside the brackets. See simple expansions for more.
Highest common factors
The common factor is a factor of two quantities. In 12 and 18 the common factors are 1, 2, 3, or 6. For 7m and 6m the common factor is m and also 1. We are usually interested in the highest common factor. See factorization for more.
Finding the gradient
Gradient (slope) of a line segment is a measure of steepness. A horizontal line has zero slope, a vertical line undefined slope. Gradient indicates how the vertical quantity changes when the horizontal quantity changes. See gradients for more.
References and further reading
Dunning, B. (1991). Critical mathematics for business studies. Palmerston North, New Zealand: Massey University. [Massey Library link]