Inequality and Equation Terms

Grade 7 · Math · Flashcards

Master the key vocabulary used in equations and inequalities in algebra.

Flashcards

Equation: A mathematical statement that two expressions are equal, shown with an = sign (e.g., 2x + 3 = 11).
Inequality: A mathematical statement showing that two expressions are not equal, using <, >, ≤, or ≥.
Solution: The value of the variable that makes an equation or inequality true.
< (less than): Symbol meaning the left side is smaller than the right side (e.g., 3 < 7).
> (greater than): Symbol meaning the left side is larger than the right side (e.g., 9 > 4).
≤ (less than or equal to): Symbol meaning the left side is smaller than or the same as the right side.
≥ (greater than or equal to): Symbol meaning the left side is larger than or the same as the right side.
Inverse Operations: Opposite operations used to solve equations — addition and subtraction are inverses; multiplication and division are inverses.
Isolate the Variable: To get the variable alone on one side of the equation by using inverse operations.
Balance Method: Whatever you do to one side of an equation, you must do to the other side to keep it equal.
Open Circle (number line): Used on a number line to show that an endpoint is NOT included (used with < or >).
Closed Circle (number line): Used on a number line to show that an endpoint IS included (used with ≤ or ≥).