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Equation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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equation

[ɪˈkweɪʒən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

A statement that the values of two mathematical expressions are equal (indicated by the sign =).

Synonyms

expression, formula, mathematical statement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
equation

Use this term when referring to a mathematical sentence that shows the equality between two expressions. It typically contains an equal sign (=).

  • The equation x + 2 = 5 can be solved by subtracting 2 from both sides.
  • In physics, we use the equation E = mc^2 to relate energy, mass, and the speed of light.
formula

Use this word when referring to a specific rule or relationship expressed in mathematical symbols, often used to calculate something. Formulas are widely used in various fields such as physics, chemistry, and finance.

  • The formula for the area of a circle is A = Ï€r^2.
  • In chemistry, the formula for water is H2O, indicating that each molecule contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.
expression

This term is appropriate when referring to a combination of numbers, variables, and operators that represent a value. Unlike equations, expressions do not have an equal sign.

  • Simplify the expression 3x + 4.
  • In algebra, an expression like 2a + 3b can be evaluated by substituting values for a and b.
mathematical statement

This term is general and can refer to any declarative sentence in mathematics that is either true or false. It is more formal than the other terms and can encompass equations, inequalities, and logical statements.

  • The mathematical statement 'The sum of the angles in a triangle is 180 degrees' is always true.
  • ‘5 > 3’ is a simple mathematical statement indicating that 5 is greater than 3.

Examples of usage

  • Solving linear equations is a fundamental skill in algebra.
  • The equation 3x + 5 = 11 can be solved by subtracting 5 from both sides.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'equation' comes from the Latin 'aequatio,' meaning 'to make equal.'
  • The concept of equations has been around since ancient Babylon, over 4,000 years ago.
  • In the 17th century, mathematicians started using symbols to represent different operations in equations.

Mathematics

  • Equations can be classified into different types, such as linear, quadratic, and polynomial, based on their degree.
  • The 'zero product property' states that if the product of two numbers is zero, at least one of them must be zero, and it's often used to solve equations.
  • In calculus, equations describe relationships involving rates of change, showcasing their importance beyond basic arithmetic.

Science

  • In chemistry, equations represent chemical reactions, showing how reactants transform into products.
  • Newton's second law of motion, F = ma, is an equation that illustrates the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration.
  • In physics, the famous equation E = mc^2 expresses the equivalence of mass and energy, demonstrating deep insights into the universe.

Pop Culture

  • Equations often appear in popular movies about science, like 'A Beautiful Mind,' which portrays the life of mathematician John Nash.
  • The character Dr. Brian Cox from 'Wonders of the Universe' uses equations to explain complex scientific phenomena to the public.
  • The TV show 'Numb3rs' features a mathematician who uses equations to help solve crimes, emphasizing their real-world applications.

Psychology

  • Studies have shown that problem-solving with equations stimulates brain activity, enhancing cognitive function.
  • Learning to solve equations can boost a person's confidence, as it involves critical thinking and logic.
  • Understanding equations helps develop abstract thinking, an essential skill in both academia and everyday life.

Origin of 'equation'

The word 'equation' originated from the Latin word 'aequatio', which means 'making equal'. The concept of equations has been used in mathematics for centuries, with ancient mathematicians like Euclid and Diophantus exploring the properties of equations. The formal notation of equations with an equal sign was introduced by the English mathematician Robert Recorde in the 16th century, revolutionizing the way mathematical relationships are represented.

See also: equations, equator.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,619, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.