Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with symbols and the rules for manipulating those symbols. These symbols represent numbers and quantities in formulas and equations. Here’s a basic breakdown to help you get started:

**1. Variables and Constants:

• Variables: Symbols (often letters like x, y, z) that represent unknown values.
• Constants: Fixed values (like numbers 2, 5, 10).

**2. Expressions:

• An algebraic expression is a combination of variables, constants, and operations (like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
• Example: $3x + 5$ is an expression where $3$ is a coefficient, $x$ is a variable, and $5$ is a constant.

**3. Equations:

• An equation states that two expressions are equal. It contains an equal sign (=).
• Example: $2x + 3 = 7$. Here, you can solve for $x$.

**4. Solving Equations:

• To solve an equation, you need to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.
• Example: To solve $2x + 3 = 7$:
  1. Subtract 3 from both sides: $2x = 4$.
  2. Divide both sides by 2: $x = 2$.

**5. Inequalities:

• Similar to equations, but they involve inequality signs ($>$, $<$, $\geq$, $\leq$).
• Example: $x + 4 > 7$. Here, you solve to find the range of values $x$ can take.

Important Concepts:

• Like Terms: Terms with the same variable raised to the same power. You can combine them by adding or subtracting the coefficients.
• Distributive Property: $a(b + c) = ab + ac$. This property allows you to multiply a single term across terms inside a parenthesis.

Would you like more details on any specific part? Or do you have any particular questions?

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Related Questions:

1. How do you solve systems of equations in algebra?
2. What is the difference between linear and quadratic equations?
3. Can you explain how to factor an algebraic expression?
4. How do you graph a linear equation on a coordinate plane?
5. What are some common algebraic identities?

Tip: Always isolate the variable on one side of the equation when solving for it. This makes it easier to find the solution.