An equation is a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions. It consists of two sides, separated by an equal sign (=), indicating that both sides have the same value.

For example, in the equation:

$2x + 3 = 7$

• The left side is $2x + 3$.
• The right side is $7$.
• The equation is true if both sides have the same value for some value of $x$. In this case, $x = 2$ makes the equation true.

Equations can involve numbers, variables (like $x$, $y$), and operations (like addition, multiplication). Solving an equation means finding the value(s) of the variable(s) that make the equation true.

Would you like a more detailed explanation or any examples?

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Here are five related questions:

1. What is the difference between an equation and an inequality?
2. How do you solve linear equations with one variable?
3. What is a quadratic equation, and how is it solved?
4. How can systems of equations be solved using substitution or elimination methods?
5. What is the role of equations in real-world problem-solving?

Tip: Always check your solution by substituting it back into the original equation!