In the earlier classes, you have come across several algebraic expressions and equations. Some examples of expressions we have so far worked with are:
5x, 2x – 3, 3x + y, 2xy + 5, xyz + x + y + z, x2 + 1, y + y2
Some examples of equations are:
You would remember that equations use the equality (=) sign; it is missing in expressions.
Of these given expressions, many have more than one variable. For example, 2xy + 5 has two variables. We however, restrict to expressions with only one variable when we form equations. Moreover, the expressions we use to form equations are linear. This means that the highest power of the variable appearing in the expression is 1.
These are linear expressions:
These are not linear expressions:
(since highest power of variable > 1)
Here we will deal with equations with linear expressions in one variable only. Such equations are known as linear equations in one variable. The simple equations which you studied in the earlier classes were all of this type.
Let us briefly revise what we know:
We assume that the two sides of the equation are balanced. We perform the same mathematical operations on both
sides of the equation, so that the balance is not disturbed. A few such steps give the solution.
Let us recall the technique of solving equations with some examples. Observe the solutions; they can be any rational number.
Find the solution of 2x – 3 = 7
(The balance is not disturbed)
Or
Or (required solution)
Slove 2y+9 =4
Transposing 9 ro RHS
Or
Dividing both sides by 2, (solution)
To check the answer: LHS = (as required)
Do you notice that the solution is a rational number? In Class VII, the equations
we solved did not have such solutions.
Solve
Transposing to the RHS, we get
Or
Multiply both sides by 3,
Or (solution)
Check: LHS (as required)
Do you now see that the coefficient of a variable in an equation need not be an integer?
Solve
We Have
or (transposing
to R H S)
or
or (dividing both sides by – 7)
or
or (solution)
Check : LHS (as required)
Cite this Simulator: