An equation is a statement that shows two mathematical expressions as equal. For example, 2 + 2 = 4 is an equation, and Kmax = hf - Φ is an equation.
In this lesson, we’ll learn the basics of reading equations aloud. More detailed information for specific types of math will also be included in later units.
Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
In English, we use different words when we talk about math than we use to read equations aloud.
| Talking about math | Reading and writing equations |
|---|---|
| Nouns | Verbs |
| Addition | Add |
| Subtraction | Subtract |
| Multiplication | Multiply |
| Division | Divide |
| Talking about math | Reading and writing equations |
|---|---|
| Symbols | Word used when reading an equation |
| + | plus |
| - | minus |
| × or · | times |
| ÷ or / | divided by |
Examples
- Today, we are going to practice addition.
- If you multiply instead of divide, you will get the incorrect answer.
- Two plus two equals four. (2 + 2 = 4)
Exponents
In 54, the number 5 is the base, and the number 4 is the exponent. We read this number aloud as “five to the fourth power.”
In other words, we say [base], + “to the” + exponent (as an ordinal number) + [power]. Examine these examples.
| 85 | Eight to the fifth power |
| 9n | Nine to the nth power |
| 6x-3 | Six to the x minus third power |
| y4 | Y to the fourth power |
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