46 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Chapter
REVIEW OF
2 BASIC ALGEBRA

LEARNING OBJECTIVES CHAPTER OUTLINE

■■ Perform arithmetic operations on algebraic 2.1 Algebraic Expressions
expressions.
2.2 S
 imple Algebraic Equations
■■ Set up basic linear equations with one variable.
and Word Problems
■■ Solve linear equations with one variable using various
2.3 Exponents
arithmetic operations.
2.4 Logarithms
■■ Use rules of exponents in simplifying expressions and
solving equations involving exponents. 2.5 Formulas and Applications
■■ Define and perform basic calculations using properties
of common and natural logarithms.
■■ Create, rearrange, and use equations to solve for
unknown variables.
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 47

Introduction
­ us assume that you are hosting a charity event. Each ticket to this event costs $20. How can you
­­­Let
represent the total amount of money raised for the charity, without yet knowing the total number
of attendees?

Algebra is a branch If we let the letter x represent the total number of attendees, then the total amount raised for
of mathematics that charity is equal to $20 times x, or 20x.
analyzes and solves
problems using letters Algebra is a branch of mathematics that introduces this concept of using variables to represent
and symbols to represent numbers. These variables, together with numbers, are used to express statements and equations
numbers, values, etc. using mathematical operations. Algebra provides a framework to derive formulas to solve general
problems, rather than finding a solution to a particular problem. Algebra will help you develop
logical thinking and problem solving skills in a systematic and analytical way.

The study of algebra is required in any occupational field, including business and finance.

2.1 | Algebraic Expressions

Algebraic expressions consist of one or more terms with a combination of variables, numbers,
and operational signs. In order to solve most problems in business and finance mathematics,
the use of equations and formulas is necessary. These equations and formulas are formed
using algebraic expressions.
In arithmetic, we use only numbers in expressions.
9
For example, 25 + 15, 75 – 22, 8 × 9,
4
In algebra, we use both numbers and variables (letters and symbols that represent various
numbers) in expressions.
b+3
For example, 2x + 5, 30 – 5y, 6(2a + 5),
2
Furthermore, in algebra, we use variables, numbers, and operational signs to translate word
problems into equations.
For example,
■■ If the sum of two numbers is 100, it can be represented by the equation:
x + y = 100.
■■ If x = 40, then y = 60; similarly, if x = 10, then y = 90.
In algebraic expressions involving multiplication, the number and the variable(s) are written
together without the operational sign for multiplication.
For example, 5a means 5 × a, 5(a), or 5 ∙ a; similarly, x y means x × y, x (y), or x ∙ y.
48 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

The following key words will help in translating word problems into algebraic expressions and
equations:

Table 2.1 Arithmetic Operations and Their Meanings

Keyword Meaning
Addition (+) add, sum, total, plus, and, more than, increased by, appreciate, rise

Subtraction (–) subtract, difference, minus, less than, reduced by, decreased by, depreciate, fall

Multiplication (×), (∙) multiply, product, times, of

Division (÷) divide, ratio, divided by, quotient, per

Equals (=) is, was, gives, given by

For example,
In words In algebraic expression
1. Ten more than a number x + 10

2. A number more than ten 10 + x

3. A number less than twenty 20 – x

4. Twenty less than a number x – 20

5. Product of five and a number 5x

20
6. Divide 20 by a number
x
x
7. Divide a number by 20
20
1 x
8. Half of a number x or
2 2
9. Twice a number 2x

10. Ten more than the product of two numbers xy + 10

11. ‘x’ less than ‘y’ y–x

12. ‘y’ less than ‘x’ x–y

13. Seventy decreased by 3 times a number 70 – 3x

14. ‘m’ subtracted from ‘n’ n–m

­­

­Terminology Used in Algebraic Expressions
Terminology Description
Usually a single letter of the alphabet
used in expressions and equations to
represent a varying quantity.
Variable
However, multiple letter designations
are also used to represent a variable in
formulas and calculator buttons.
A number, variable, or a combination
Term of numbers and variables which are
multiplied or divided together.
A mathematical phrase made up of a
Expression
combination of terms and operations.
The product of all numerical factors in
Coefficient
front of the variables of a term.
A term that only has a number with
no variables. Sometimes a letter or
Constant
symbol is used to represent a quantity
that does not change.
Terms that have the same variables
and exponents. They differ only in
Like terms
their numerical coefficient. Constant
terms are like terms.
Terms that have different variables
Unlike terms or the same variables with different
exponents.
Refer to each of the combinations of
Factors variables and/or numbers multiplied
together in a term.
An algebraic expression that has only
Monomial
one term.
Algebraic expression that has two or
Polynomial
more terms.
Binomial Polynomial with 2 terms.
Trinomial Polynomial with 3 terms.
Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 49
Examples
In the expression 2m + 5n – 6,
m and n are variables.
'PV', 'FV', 'PMT', etc.
4 b
5, x, 5x2y, 2xy, , each have 1 term.
a 3
The expression 5x + y has 2 terms.
x x 1
The expression – y2 + – has 4 terms.
4 y x
Expressions with one variable: (2x + 5), (9x –3)
Expressions with two variables: (5x – 7y + 5),
(xy + 3x +7)
2 3
Coefficient of x is 1, coefficient of –3(2y ) is –6.
In the expression 5x2 – 2y + 3, the coefficient of
the 1st term is 5, and the coefficient of the 2nd
term is –2.
rd
In the expression 2x + 3y + 5, the 3 term, +5,
is a constant.
In the expression 5x2 – 8, the 2nd term, –8, is a
constant.
π is a constant, where π = 3.14159265...
5x and 9x are like terms.
30a2, −4a2, and 9a2 are like terms.
5, –9 are like terms.
12y and 3y 2 are unlike terms.
x 2, x , and 1 are unlike terms.
5 and x are factors of the term 5x.
3, x , and y are factors of the term 3xy.
8, 7x , 4y, and 2xy are monomials.
(8x 2 – 5x + 3) is a polynomial with 3 terms where,
the 1st term is 8x 2, the 2nd term is −5x, and the 3rd
term is +3.
Coefficient of the 1st term is 8, coefficient of the
2nd term is –5. The 3rd term is a constant.
(4x − 3y), (x − 5), (4xy + 7x) are binomials.
(2x + 3y + 5), (xy + x − 2), (2x + xy + 3z) are
trinomials.
50 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

­­­Basic Arithmetic Operations with Algebraic Expressions

All arithmetic operations can be performed on algebraic expressions by following the applicable rules
(BEDMAS, exponents, signed numbers, etc.).

Addition and Subtraction

While grouping like When adding or subtracting algebraic expressions, first collect the like terms and group them, then
terms, the sign of the
term moves with the
add or subtract the coefficients of the like terms.
term.
Note: If the coefficient of a term is not written, it is 1.

Example 2.1(a) Addition and Subtraction of Algebraic Expressions

Add: (i) (3x + 7) and (5x + 3) (ii) (4y 2 – 8y – 9) and (2y 2 + 6y – 2)

Subtract: (iii) (x 2 + 5x – 7) from (2x 2 – 2x + 3) (iv) (5y 2 + 8y – 6) from (–2y 2 – 7y + 5)

Solution (i) (3x + 7) + (5x + 3) Removing brackets,

When a bracket is = 3x + 7 + 5x + 3 Grouping like terms,
preceded by a positive = 3x + 5x + 7 + 3 Adding like terms,
sign (+), then drop the
bracket. = 8x + 10

(ii) (4y 2 – 8y – 9) + (2y 2 + 6y – 2) Removing brackets,

2 2
= 4y – 8y – 9 + 2y + 6y – 2 Grouping like terms,
2 2
= 4y + 2y – 8y + 6y – 9 – 2 Adding and subtracting like terms,
2
= 6y – 2y – 11

(iii) (2x 2 – 2x + 3) – (x 2 + 5x – 7) Expanding by distributing the negative sign

When a bracket is to terms within the bracket,
preceded by a negative
sign, drop the bracket
= 2x 2 – 2x + 3 – x 2 – 5x + 7 Grouping like terms,
and change the sign of = 2x 2 – x 2 – 2x – 5x + 3 + 7 Adding and subtracting like terms,
every term.
= x 2 – 7x + 10
(iv) (–2y 2 – 7y + 5) – (5y 2 + 8y – 6) Expanding by distributing the negative sign
to terms within the bracket,
= –2y 2 – 7y + 5 – 5y 2 – 8y + 6 Grouping like terms,
= –2y 2 – 5y 2 – 7y – 8y + 5 + 6 Adding and subtracting like terms,
= –7y 2 – 15y + 11

Multiplication
Multiplying a Monomial by a Monomial
When multiplying a monomial by a monomial, multiply the coefficients and multiply all the variables.
If there are any similar variables, use the exponent notation.

Example 2.1(b) Multiplying Monomials by Monomials

Multiply and simplify: (i) 6x 2y and 5x y (ii) (3a3), (–4ab), and (2b2)

Solution (i) (6x 2y) (5x y) Grouping coefficients and variables,

2
= (6)(5)(x )(x )(y)(y) Multiplying,

= 30x 3y 2
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 51

Solution (ii) (3a3) (–4ab) (2b2) Grouping coefficients and variables,

continued 3 2
= (3)(–4)(2)(a )(a)(b)(b ) Multiplying,

= –24a 4b 3

Multiplying a Polynomial by a Monomial

When multiplying a polynomial by a monomial, multiply the monomial by each term of the
polynomial. This is also known as the distributive property of multiplication.
a (b + c) = ab + ac

Then, group the like terms and simplify using addition and subtraction.

Example 2.1(c) Multiplying Polynomials by Monomials

(i) Multiply: 2x3 and (3x2 + 2x – 5) (ii) Expand and simplify: 8x (x + 3) + 4x (x – 4)

Solution (i) Expanding,

2x3 (3x2 + 2x – 5)

= 6x 5 + 4 x 4 – 10x 3

(ii) 8x (x + 3) + 4x  (x – 4) Expanding,

= 8x 2 + 24 x + 4 x 2 – 16x Grouping like terms,

2 2
= 8x + 4 x + 24 x – 16x Adding and subtracting like terms,

= 12x 2 + 8x

Multiplying a Polynomial by a Polynomial

When multiplying a polynomial by a polynomial, multiply each term of the first polynomial by each
term of the second polynomial. Then, group the like terms and simplify using addition and subtraction.

Example 2.1(d) Multiplying Polynomials by Polynomials

Multiply and simplify:

(i) (x 2+ 5) and (x – 4)
2 2
(ii) (x + 7) and (2x + 5x + 2)
(iii) (x + 5)(2x – 6) + (3x – 4)(x – 5)

Solution
(i) (x 2+ 5)(x – 4)
Expanding,
= x 3 – 4 x 2 + 5x – 20

(ii) (x 2 + 7)(2x 2 + 5x + 2) Expanding,

= 2x 4 + 5x 3 + 2x 2 + 14x 2 + 35x + 14 Adding like terms,

= 2x 4 + 5x 3 + 16x 2 + 35x + 14
52 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Solution
continued
(iii) (x + 5)(2x – 6) + (3x – 4)(x – 5) Expanding,

= (2x 2 – 6x + 10x – 30) + (3x 2 – 15x – 4x + 20) Removing brackets,

2 2
= 2x – 6x + 10x – 30 + 3x – 15x – 4x + 20 Grouping like terms,
2 2
= 2x + 3x – 6x + 10x – 15x – 4x – 30 + 20 Adding and subtracting like terms,

= 5x 2 – 15x – 10

Division
Dividing a Monomial by a Monomial
When dividing a monomial by a monomial, group the constants and each of the variables separately
and simplify them. If there are any similar variables, use the exponent notation.

Example 2.1(e) Dividing Monomials by Monomials

Divide and simplify: (i) 8x 2y by 6x (ii) 9x 2 by 3x 2

Solution 8x2y 8 x2 4 4xy 9x2 9

(i)   = × × y = xy or (ii)   = =3
6x 6 x 3 3 3x 2 3

Dividing a Polynomial by a Monomial

When dividing a polynomial by a monomial, divide each term of the polynomial by the monomial.
The process is similar to dividing a monomial by a monomial.

Example 2.1(f) Dividing Polynomials by Monomials

Divide: (i) (9x 3 + 3x 2) by 6x (ii) (2x 3 + 4x 4 + 7x ) by 4x 4

Solution 9x3 + 3x2 9x3 3x2 3x2 x 3x2 + x

(i)   = + = + or
6x 6x 6x 2 2 2
2x3 + 4x4 + 7x 2x3 4x4 7x 1 7
(ii)   4
= 4
+ 4
+ 4
= +1+ 3
4x 4x 4x 4x 2x 4x

Evaluating Algebraic Expressions

In an algebraic expression, when we replace all the variables with numbers and simplify the expression,
it is referred to as evaluating the algebraic expression. The simplified answer is the value of the
expression.

Example 2.1(g) Evaluating Algebraic Expressions

3xy + 3x
Evaluate: (i) 2x + y, where x = 10 and y = 5 (ii) , where x = 3 and y = 2
2y + 5
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 53

Solution (i) 2x + y Substituting x = 10 and y = 5,

= 2(10) + 5 = 20 + 5 = 25 [2x means 2(x)]
3xy + 3x
(ii) Substituting x = 3 and y = 2,
2y + 5
3(3)(2) + 3(3) 18 + 9 27
= = = =3
2(2) + 5 4+5 9

Example 2.1(h) Evaluating Algebraic Expressions Involving Exponents

Evaluate:
(5x)2 × 4y
(i) , where x = 2 and y = 3 (ii) 2(x2 + 3x) – 5y, where x = 4 and y = –3
50

Solution (5x)2 × 4y
(i) Substituting x = 2 and y = 3,
50
[5(2)]2 × 4(3) 102 × 12 100 × 12
= = = = 24 [Remember to follow BEDMAS rule]
50 50 50
2
(ii) 2(x + 3x) – 5y Substituting x = 4 and y = –3,
2
= 2[(4) + 3(4)] – 5(–3) = 2(16 + 12) + 15 = 56 + 15 = 71

Factoring Algebraic Expressions with Common Factors

Factoring algebraic expressions means finding the common factors for both coefficients and the
variables in all the terms. Once the factors are found, the expression will become a product of a
monomial and a polynomial (or multiple polynomials).

Example 2.1(i) Factoring Algebraic Expressions

Factor the following:
(i) 12x + 18y (ii) 8y2 + 18y
(iii) 12xy3 + 6xy4 – 9x3y5 – 3xy3 (iv) 14(2x + y) – 7x (2x + y)

Solution (i) 12x + 18y

12x = 2 × 2 × 3 × x Factors 2 and 3 are common for both.
18y = 2 × 3 × 3 × y Therefore, GCF = 2 × 3 = 6.
By dividing the original expression by the GCF 6, we obtain the other factor (2x + 3y).
Therefore, 12x + 18y = 6(2x + 3y).
2
(ii) 8y + 18y
8y2 = 2 × 2 × 2 × y × y Factors 2 and y are common for both.
18y = 2 × 3 × 3 × y Therefore, GCF = 2(y) = 2y.
By dividing the original expression by the GCF 2y, we obtain the other factor (4y + 9).
Therefore, 8y2 + 18y = 2y(4y + 9).
3 4 3 5 3
(iii) 12xy + 6xy – 9x y – 3xy 3xy3 is common for all terms.
Therefore, GCF = 3xy3.
By dividing the original expression by the GCF 3xy3, we obtain the other factor (4 + 2y – 3x2y2 – 1).
Therefore, 12xy3 + 6xy4 – 9x3y5 – 3xy3 = 3xy3(4 + 2y – 3x 2y 2 – 1).
54 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Solution (iv) 14(2x + y) – 7x(2x + y)

continued
14(2x  + y) = 2 × 7 × (2x  + y) Factors 7 and (2x + y) are common for both.
7x (2x + y) = 7 × x × (2x + y) Therefore, GCF = 7(2x + y)
By dividing the original expression by the GCF 7(2x + y), we obtain the other factor (2 – x).
Therefore, 14(2x  + y) – 7x(2x + y) = 7(2x + y)(2 – x).

2.1 | Exercises Answers to the odd-numbered problems are available at the end of the textbook.

1. Identify the following terms in the equations:

a. 2nd term and 3rd term in  3x2 + 7xy – 4y + 7 b. 3rd term and 4th term in  x2 – 5x – y + 3
st rd
c. 1 term and 3 term in 9xy + 7x – 6y + 2
2. Identify the following terms in the equations:
a. 1st term and 4th term in –x2 + 9xy + y + 7 b. 2nd term and 3rd term in 7xy + 4y + 7
st rd 2
c. 1 term and 3 term in 10x + 5xy – 6x + 7y
3. State the constant term and the coefficient of all other terms in each of the following expressions:
a. 5x2 – 3xy + 5 b. –2y2 + 3x + 1 c. –2xy2 – 2x2y + 7 d. 8y2 – 4
4. State the constant term and the coefficient of all other terms in each of the following expressions:
2
a. –2y + 3y – 4 b. y5 – 2y7 – 2 c. 2x3 – 3x2 + 1 d. –6x2 + 6

For Problems 5 to 20, simplify the expressions.

2 2
5. a. 13x + 8x – 2x + 9x b. –18y – 5y2 + 19y – 2y2 c. 6x – 3x + 2y2 + y2
6. a. 7x + 12x2 – 4x + 5x2 b. –14y – 2y2 + 7y + 7y2 c. 9x2 – 6x2 + 7y – 6y
3x + 5x 12y – 3y (16y)(8x)
7. a. b. c.
5x 4y + 2y (4x)(8y)

8x 20y – 5y (20y)(4x)
8. a. b. c.
x + 5x –4y + 7y (2x)(5y)

9. a. 3 [5 – 3(4 – x)] – 2 – 5 [3(5x – 4) + 8] – 9x b. 6 [4(8 – y) – 5(3 + 3y)] – 21 – 7 [3(7  +  4y) – 4] + 198y
1 1
10. a. 5 – {x – 8[3 – 5(2x – 3) + 3x] – 3} b. {y – 15[2 – 3(3y – 2) – 7y] – 4} + 7
4 5
11. a. y – {4x – [y – (2y – 9) – x] + 2} b. (x – 1) – {[x – (x – 3)] – x}
12. a. 2y + {–6y – [3x + (–4x + 3)] + 5} b. 9x – {3y + [4x – (y – 6x)] – (x + 7y)}
13. a. 2{–2y + 3[4x – 2(3 + x)]} b. 2y {8[3(2y – 5) – (8y + 9) + 6]}
14. a. 2{–7y + 8[5x – 3(4x + 6)]} b. 2x – {5[4(3x – 8) – (9x + 10)] + 14}
2
15. a. (2y – 1)(y – 4) – (3y + 2)(3y – 1) b. (2x + 3)(2x – 1) – 4(x – 7) c. (5x – 6)2 – (x + 5)2
16. a. (y + 4)(y – 3) + (y – 2)(y – 3) b. 4(2x – 1)(x + 3) – 3(x – 2)(3x – 4) c. (2y – 3)2 – (y + 3)2
–x2y – xy 2 x2y – 3xy 2 + 4x2y + xy 6xy 2 21x2 1
17. a. b. c. × ×
xy xy 7 y 36xy 2
–x2y – 3xy 2 3x3y3 + 6x2y – 3xy 2 + 3xy 12x2y 2 15x2 1
18. a. b. c. × ×
xy 3xy 5 4xy 30x3y
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 55

3x + 9 7x + 21 x2 + 5x 3x + 15 5xy + 15y 3x – 9
19. a. × b. × c. ×
14 x+3 2x + 10 4x 4x – 12 4x + 12

16 6x2y + 8x 3xy + 4y 12y 2 x2 + xy 14x – 28

20. a. × b. × c. ×
3x2y + 4x 12 8y 3x + 4 7x – 14 x+y

21. Evaluate the following expressions, given x = 2 and y = 3:

19x – 5y (3x)2 + (3y)
a. b. x2 + 6x + 8 c. d. –2x2 + 3x + 8y
9 6y

22. Evaluate the following expressions, given x = 5 and y = 4:

7x – 5y (2x)2 + (2y)
a. b. –x2 + 10x + 7 c. d. 4x2 + 10x + 48y
3 5y

For Problems 23 to 26, simplify and evaluate the expressions.

23. a. 6y + 4y – 7y , where y = 10 b. 2z – z + 7z , where z = 7
24. a. 3x + 5x – 8x, where x = 4 b. 3A – A + 6A , where A = 10
25. a. (6x)(3x) – (5x)(4x) , where x = 3 b. (2x)(0.5x + 4x)(5x + x) , where x = 5
26. a. (10x × 4.5x) – (11x × 4x) , where x = 50 b. (4x)(12x + 0.25x)(0.5x + x) , where x = 3

For Problems 27 to 30, identify like terms, group them, and simplify.
27. a. 12A + 4B – 7A – B b. 6x + 8y – 5x – 3y + 7
28. a. 6B + 8A – A – 2B b. 14 – 3x + 10y + 4y
29. a. –2x + 8x – 12x + 5y + 7y b. 6xy2 – 2x2y – 4x2 + 2xy2 + 3x2y + 2x2 + 4
2 2 2 2
30. a. 3x + 6x – 20x + 8y + 8y + 5x b. 3x y – 12xy – 6x y – 5xy – 2xy – 4xy
31. Identify like terms, group them, simplify, and evaluate:
a. 3a + 6b – 16c – a + 8b + 4c + 2, where a = 3, b = 2, c = 1
2 2
b. x – x + 2x – x, where x = 5
32. Identify like terms, group them, simplify, and evaluate:
a. 3x – 60y – 17z – 2x + 62y + 4z + 1, where x = 5, y = 8, z = 2
2 2
b. –a – 3a + 3a + 4a, where a = 15

For Problems 33 to 36, factor the expressions using GCF.

2
33. a. 6x y – 3xy – 9y b. 15y2 – 12y – 3 c. 6ab2 – 8ba2
34. a. 12a2b – 16ab – 24b b. 33x2 – 3x – 11x2 c. 12x2y – 18y2x
35. a. 10ab – 8bc
3
b. 8a – 4a
2 c. 10x2 – 6x – 4x2

36. a. 6xy – 9yz b. 10x3 – 4x2 c. 60y2 – 40y – 180y2

For Problems 37 to 40, factor the expressions by grouping.

37. a. 5x(y + 2) + 3y + 6
2
b. 4y(x – 5) – x + 5x c. xy – 2y + 5x – 10
2
38. a. 7x (m – 4) + 3m – 12
2
b. 3y(x – 1) + 2x – 2x c. 4x – x y – 20y + 5y

39. a. x 2 + x – x y – y b. 2x 2 + 3y + 2x + 3xy
2
40. a. x – 4y + 4x – x y b. 5x 2y – 10x 2 + y 2 – 2y
56 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

­­­
2.2 | Simple Algebraic Equations and Word Problems
An algebraic equation is a mathematical sentence expressing equality between two algebraic
expressions (or an algebraic expression and a number).
When two expressions are joined by an equal (=) sign, it indicates that the expression to the left of the
equal sign is equal to the expression to the right of the equal sign.
For example, when two algebraic expressions, 5x + 7 and x + 19, are equal, the two expressions are
joined by an equal (=) sign and the equation is written as:
5x + 7 = x + 19
'Left side' (LS) = 'Right side' (RS)
The solution to the equation is determined by performing arithmetic operations to solve for the
variable that makes the left side (LS) equal to the right side (RS).
In algebra, there are a variety of equations. In this section you wil learn one type of equation, known
as a linear equation with one variable.
Examples of linear equations with one variable are:
2x = 8, 3x + 5 = 14, 5x + 7 = x + 19.

­­­Equivalent Equations
Equations with the same solutions are called equivalent equations.
For example, 2x + 5 = 9 and 2x = 4 are equivalent equations because the solution x = 2 satisfies each
equation.
Similarly, 3x – 4 = 5, 2x = x + 3, and x + 1 = 4 are equvialent equations because the solution x = 3
satisfies each equation.

Properties of Equality
If a = b, then,
Performing the same b = a Symmetric Property Interchanging LS and RS.
operation on both sides
a + c = b + c Addition Property Adding the same quantity on both sides.
of an equation will
result in an equivalent a − c = b − c Subtraction Property Subtracting the same quantity on both sides.
equation.
a × c = b × c Multiplication Property Multiplying by the same quantity on both sides.
a b
= Division Property, c ≠ 0 Dividing by the same quantity on both sides.
c c

The above properties are used to solve equations.

Equations with Decimal Coefficients

If an equation contains decimal coefficients, then the decimal coefficients can be changed to whole
numbers by multiplying each term by the lowest decimal place value.
For example,
The lowest place value is hundredths.
1.25x = 0.2 + 4
Multiplying each term by 100,
100(1.25x) = 100(0.2) + 100(4) Simplifying,
125x = 20 + 400 Now, the equation has whole number coefficients.
125x = 420
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 57

Equations with Fractional Coefficients

If an equation contains fractional coefficients, then the fractional coefficients can be changed to whole
numbers by multiplying each term by the least common denominator (LCD) of all the fractions.
For example,
2 5 The LCD of the denominators 3 and 2 is 6.
x= +4
3 2 Multiplying each term by 6,

6 d xn = 6 d n + 6(4)
2 5
Simplifying,
3 2
4x = 15 + 24 Now, the equation is with whole number coefficients.
4x = 39

Solving Algebraic Equations with One Variable

Use the following steps in solving algebraic equations with one variable:
Step 1: Clear the equation of fractions and/or decimals whenever possible, to make
calculations and rearrangements easier.
Step 2: Expand and clear brackets in the equation, if present, by following the order of
arithmetic operations (BEDMAS).
Step 3: Use the addition and subtraction principles to collect and group all variable terms to the
left side of the equation and all constants to the right side of the equation.
Step 4: Use the multiplication and division principles to ensure that the coefficient of the
variable is +1.
Step 5: You should now have a single variable on the left side, and one or more numbers on
the right side. Compute the right side of the equation to find the solution.
Step 6: Verify the answer against the original problem.
Step 7: State your answer.

Example 2.2(a) Solving Equations Using the Addition and Subtraction Properties
Solve the following equations and verify the solutions:

(i) x − 11 = 4 (ii) 8 +  x = 20

Solution (i)  x − 11 = 4 Adding 11 to both sides, Verify by substituting x = 15:

x − 11 + 11 = 4 + 11 Simplifying, LS = x − 11 RS = 4
x = 15 = 15 − 11
=4
LS = RS
Therefore, the solution is x = 15.

(ii) 8 + x = 20 Subtracting 8 from both sides, Verify by substituting x = 12:

8 – 8 + x = 20 – 8 Simplifying, LS = 8 + x RS = 20
x = 12 = 8 + 12
= 20
LS = RS
Therefore, the solution is x = 12.
58 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Example 2.2(b) Solving Equations Using the Multiplication and Division Properties
Solve the following equations and verify the solutions:

3
(i) 5x = 20 (ii) x = 12
8

Solution (i) Dividing both sides by 5,

5x = 20  Verify by substituting x = 4:
5x 20 LS = 5x RS = 20
=  Simplifying,
5 5
= 5(4)
x = 4 = 20
LS = RS
Therefore, the solution is x = 4.
3 8 Verify by substituting x = 32:
(ii)   x = 12 Multiplying both sides by
8 3
3 3
(the reciprocal of ), LS = x RS = 12
8 8
8 3 8
e xo = (12) Simplifying, =
3
× 32
3 8 3 8
8 4
x = × 12 = 12
13
LS = RS
x = 8 × 4 Therefore, the solution is x = 32.
x = 32
Alternative Method
3
x = 12 Multiplying both sides by 8,
8

  8 e xo = 8(12) Simplifying,
3
8

3x = 96 Dividing both sides by 3,

3x 96
= Simplifying,
3 3

x = 32

Example 2.2(c) Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

Solve the following equations:

(i) 3x – 8 = 12 – 2x (ii) 15 + 6x – 4 = 3x + 31 – x

Solution (i) 3x – 8 = 12 – 2x Adding 2x to both sides and simplifying,

3x + 2x – 8 = 12 – 2x + 2x
5x – 8 = 12 Adding 8 to both sides and simplifying,
5x – 8 + 8 = 12 + 8
5x = 20 Dividing both sides by 5 and simplifying,
5x 20
=
5 5

x = 4 Therefore, the solution is x = 4.

 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 59

Solution (ii) 15 + 6x – 4 = 3x + 31 – x Combining like terms on both sides,

continued
11 + 6x = 2x + 31 Subtracting 2x from both sides and simplifying,
11 + 6x – 2x = 2x – 2x + 31
11 + 4x = 31 Subtracting 11 from both sides and simplifying,
11 – 11 + 4x = 31 – 11

4x = 20 Dividing both sides by 4 and simplifying,

4x 20
=
4 4

x = 5 Therefore, the solution is x = 5.

Example 2.2(d) Solving Equations with Fractions and Equations with Decimals
Solve the following equations:
x 1 1 x
(i) – = + (ii) 0.15x + 1.2 = 0.4x – 0.8
3 12 6 4
Solution x 1 1 x
(i) – = + LCD of 3, 4, 6, and 12 is 12. Multiplying each term by 12
3 12 6 4 and simplifying,

12 e o – 12 e o = 12 e o + 12 e o
x 1 1 x
3 12 6 4
4x – 1 = 2 + 3x Subtracting 3x from both sides and simplifying,
4x – 3x – 1 = 2 + 3x – 3x
x – 1 = 2 Adding 1 to both sides and simplifying,
x–1+1=2+1
x = 3 Therefore, the solution is x = 3.

(ii) 0.15x + 1.2 = 0.4x – 0.8 Lowest decimal place value is hundredths.
Multiplying each term by 100 and simplifying,
100(0.15x) + 100(1.2) = 100(0.4x) – 100(0.8)
15x + 120 = 40x – 80 Using the symmetric property,
40x – 80 = 15x + 120 Subtracting 15x from both sides
and simplifying,
40x – 15x – 80 = 15x – 15x + 120

25x – 80 = 120 Adding 80 to both sides and simplifying,

25x – 80 + 80 = 120 + 80
25x = 200 Dividing both sides by 25 and simplifying,
25x 200
=
25 25
x = 8 Therefore, the solution is x = 8.
60 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Example 2.2(e) Solving Equations Using All the Principles

Solve the following:
(i) 8x + 7 – 3x = –6x – 15 + x (ii) 2(3x – 7) = 28 – 3(x + 1)

Solution (i)  8x + 7 – 3x = –6x – 15 + x Combining like terms on both sides,

5x + 7 = –5x – 15 Adding 5x to both sides and simplifying,
5x + 5x + 7 = –5x + 5x – 15
10x + 7 = –15 Subtracting 7 from both sides and simplifying,
10x + 7 – 7 = –15 – 7
10x = –22 Dividing both sides by 10 and simplifying,
10x –22
=
10 10
x = –2.2 Therefore, the solution is –2.2.

(ii) 2(3x – 7) = 28 – 3(x + 1) Expanding both sides,

6x – 14 = 28 – 3x – 3 Adding 3x to both sides and simplifying,
6x + 3x – 14 = 28 – 3 – 3x + 3x
9x – 14 = 25 Adding 14 to both sides and simplifying,
9x – 14 + 14 = 25 + 14
9x = 39 Dividing both sides by 9 and simplifying,
9x 39
=
9 9
13 13
x= Therefore, the solution is .
3 3

Examples of Writing Simple Algebraic Equations with One Variable in

Word Problems
Sample word problem Algebraic equation

Six more than a number, 'n', is 15. n + 6 = 15

In 20 years, A will be 60 years old. A + 20 = 60
Fourteen decreased by twice a number is six. 14 – 2x = 6
The product of five and the sum of a number and four is sixty. 5(x + 4) = 60
6
The quotient of six and a number is three. =3
n
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 61

Solving Word Problems

We can follow these steps to solve word problems:
Step 1: Read the entire problem and understand the situation.
Step 2: Identify the given information and the question to be answered.
Step 3: Look for key words. Some words indicate certain mathematical operations.
Step 4: Choose a variable to represent the unknown(s).
Step 5: State what that variable represents, including the unit of measure.
Step 6: Wherever necessary, draw a simple sketch to identify the information. This helps to
visualize the scenario.
Step 7: Create an equation (or set of equations) to describe the relationship between the variables
and the constants in the question.
Step 8: Rearrange the equation(s) and solve for the unknowns.

Example 2.2(f) Solving a Word Problem Using Algebraic Equations

Harry paid a total of $65 for a shirt and a tie. If he paid $18 for the tie, how much did he pay for the shirt?
Solution Let $x be the amount paid for the shirt.
The total amount paid, x + 18 = 65
Solving for x, x = 65 – 18
x = 47
Therefore, he paid $47 for the shirt.

Example 2.2(g) Solving a Word Problem Using Algebraic Equations

Bessy’s hourly rate of pay is $5 more than that of Anna’s. If both of them worked for two hours and
received a total of $70, what is their individual hourly rate of pay?
Solution Let Anna’s hourly rate be $x.
Therefore, Bessy’s hourly rate: $x + $5
Total amount received if both of them worked for two hours:
2(x) + 2(x + 5) = 70
2x + 2x + 10 = 70
4x = 70 – 10
4x = 60
x = 15
Therefore, Anna’s hourly rate is $15 and Bessy’s hourly rate is 15 + 5 = $20.

2.2 | Exercises Answers to the odd-numbered problems are available at the end of the textbook.

1. Write the algebraic expression for the following:

a. Three less than twice a number
c. Twenty-five increased by three times a number
2. Write the algebraic expression for the following:
a. A number less than four times a number
c. Seven times the sum of a number and five
b. Two times a number divided by five
d. Six times the total of three and a number
b. Fifteen divided by three times a number
d. Twenty increased by twice a number
62 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

For Problems 3 to 6, write the algebraic equation and solve the equation.
3. a. The sum of a number and six is ten. b. Six times a number is seventy-two.
4. a. A number decreased by fifteen is five. b. Two-fifths a number is six.
5. a. A number divided by five is four. b. Two-thirds a number is twelve.
6. a. The product of a number and four is twenty-eight. b. A number divided by three is three.

For Problems 7 to 32, solve for the unknown using principles of equations, and round to two decimal places, wherever applicable.
7. a. x – 20 = 10 b. 22 = 40 – x 8. a. x – 25 = 17 b. 54 = 23 – x
9. a. 21 + x = 4 b. 16 + x = 22 10. a. 50 + x = 45 b. 12 + x = 38
4 3 10 4 1 5 b. 7x – 16 = 22
11. a. x – = b. =x– 12. a. x – =
5 5 15 3 6 6
13. a. 5x = 20 b. 11x + 4 = 17 14. a. 4x = 24 b. 4x + 5x = 25

15. a. x + 0.13x = 75 b. x + 0.08x = 110 16. a. x + 0.08x = 45 b. 4x + 5 = 25

17. 8x + 7 – 3x = –6x – 15 + x 18. x – 2 – 4x = –3x – 8 + 5x

19. 2(3x – 7) = 28 – 3(x + 1) 20. 4(2x – 5) = 32 – 4(x – 2)

x–5 x+2 7 3
21. + = 41 22. (2x – 1) +  (x + 1) = 3
2 3 12 4
5 3 3 2
23. = 24. =
y+4 y–2 x+1 x–3
7 5 5 3
25. = 26. =
5x – 3 4x y+2 y
27. 15 + 5(x – 10) = 3(x – 1) 28. 2(x – 3) + 3(x – 5) = 4

29. 4(y + 7) – 2(y – 4) = 3(y – 2) 30. 8(2y + 4) – 6(3y + 7) = 3y

31. 4(2x – 5) = 32 – 4 (x – 2) 32. (5 + 0.5x)(1 + 3) = –1.2(2x + 4) + 25

33. If three times a number plus twenty is seven times that number, what is the number?

34. Fifteen less than three times a number is twice that number. What is the number?

35. A 25-metre long wire is cut into 2 pieces. One piece is 7 metres longer than the other. Calculate the length of each piece.

36. A 9-metre long pipe is cut into 2 pieces. One piece is twice the length of the other piece. Calculate the length of each piece.

37. Andy and Becky shared $500. If Andy’s share was $150 less than Becky’s, calculate the size of each of their shares.
38. A profit of $85,750 was shared by the two partners of a business. If one partner received $12,300 more than the other,
how much did each of them receive?
39. Sam is paid $270 a week. He worked 9 hours overtime last week and recieved $954. Calculate his overtime pay per hour.

40. Lisa is paid $840 a week. Her overtime rate is $28 per hour. Last week she recieved $1036. How many hours overtime
did she work last week?

41. A 20-metre long chain is cut into two pieces. One piece is one-third e 3 o the length of the other. Calculate the length of
1

each piece.

42. A 18-metre long wire is cut into two pieces. One piece is four-fifths e 5 o the length of the other. Calculate the length of
4

each piece.
43. Fifty more than eight times a number is the same as four less than ten times the number. What is the number?

44. Eighteen less than three times a number is the same as ten more than the number. What is the number?
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 63
45. Movie tickets that were sold to each child were $3 cheaper than those sold to each adult. If a family of two adults and two
children paid $34 to watch a movie at the cinema, what was the price of each adult ticket and each child ticket?
46. Giri had twice the number of quarters (25 cents) in his bag than dimes (10 cents). If he had a total of 54 coins, how many
of them were quarters? What was the total dollar value of these coins?
47. Hailey’s hourly rate of pay is $3.50 more than that of Ryan’s. If they worked for seven hours each and earned a total of
$164.50, calculate their individual hourly rate of pay.
48. A project lead and an intern worked for 30 hours each to develop a web page. The lead’s hourly rate is two times that of
the intern and they were paid a total of $1080 to develop the web page. What was their individual hourly rate of pay?
49. Henry invested his bonus amount of $10,000 in high-risk and low-risk stocks. His investment in high-risk stocks was
$2000 less than half his investment in low-risk stocks. What was his investment in high-risk stocks?
50. A retail store received a total of 1260 units of Product A and Product B. If the quantity of Product A was 147 less than
three-fourths the quantity of Product B, how many units of Product A did they receive?

­­­
2.3 | Exponents
The concept of exponents was covered in Chapter 1, Section 1.4, where exponents were used to express
repeated multiplication or division of the same numbers.
a × a × a × af × a = a n 1 = 1n = a
-n
1 4444 2 4444 3 a ×a × a ×a f ×a a
'n' factors of 'a' 1 444444 2 444444 3
'n' factors of 'a'
For example,

exponent
■■ 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 is represented by: 25
1 4444 2 4444 3 base
5 5factors
factors of
of 22

exponent
■■ 1 is represented by: 13 = 8-3 base
8× 8×8 8
14 24 3
3 factors of
3 factorsof 8 8

The above exponent principle is applied to express repeated multiplication of a variable or an algebraic
term.
In algebra, when 'n' is a positive integer, the general form of an exponent using variables is represented by:
n
x × x × x × xf× x = x
■■ 1 4 4 44 2 4 4 44 3
'n' factors of 'x'

■■ 1
x × x × x × xf× x
= 1n = x
x
-n

1 4 4 44 2 4 4 44 3
'n' factors of 'x'
64 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Some useful applications of the above are provided below with corresponding examples:

Table 2.3(a) Exponents As Repeated Multiplication or Division with Examples

Exponential
Expanded Form Example
Form
5
–2 = –(2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2) = –32
(i) –x  n = –(x)n = –(x × x ... × x) 4
–2 = –(2 × 2 × 2 × 2) = –16

n (–2)5 = (–2)(–2)(–2)(–2)(–2) = –32

(ii) (–x) = (–x) (–x)... (–x) 4
(–2) = (–2)(–2)(–2)(–2) = 16

1 1
=– –2–5 = –(2)–5 = –
–n –n xn 25
(iii) –x = –(x)
1 1 1
=– =– =–
x × x ... × x 2×2×2×2×2 32

1
(–2)–5 =
1 (–2)5
= 1
(–x)n =
(iv) (–x) –n (–2)(–2)(–2)(–2)(–2)
1 1 1
= = =–
(–x)(–x) ... (–x) –32 32
1 1 1
(–2)–4 = = =
(–2)4 (–2)(–2)(–2)(–2) 16
(v) ax n = a(x × x ... × x) 3x 4, where x = 2, = 3(2)4 = 3(2 × 2 × 2 × 2) = 48
The exponent button on the
(3x)4, where x = 2,
Texas Instruments BA II Plus (vi) (ax)
n
= (ax)(ax)... (ax)
calculator is the y x button, = (3 × 2)4 = 6 × 6 × 6 × 6 = 1296
as shown in this picture.
Note: The examples above assume that 'x' is a positive number.

­­­Rules of Exponents and Evaluation of Exponents

'Rules of exponents' is also referred to as 'laws of exponents' or 'properties of exponents'. When the
bases of exponents are the same, there are eight basic rules, as follows:

Table 2.3(b) Rules of Exponents with Examples

Rule Description Example

To multiply powers of the same

base, write the base and add the x4 . x3 = x(4 + 3) = x7
(i) Product Rule exponents.
24 . 23 = 2(4 + 3) = 27 = 128
m n (m + n)
x .x =x

To divide powers of the same base,

x5
write the base and subtract the = x(5 – 2) = x3
(ii) Quotient Rule x2
exponents.
35
xm = 3(5 – 2) = 33 = 27
= x(m – n) 32
xn

To raise a power to another power, . 2)

(x4)2 = x(4 = x8
m write the base and multiply the
n (iii) Power of a Power Rule exponents. . 2)
(24)2 = 2(4 = 28 = 256
–m m (xm)n = xmn
n n

To simplify a power of a product, (x . y)5 = x5 . y5

raise each factor to the same (2 . 3)5 = 25 . 35 = 32 . 243
(iv) Power of a Product Rule
exponent.
(xy)m = xm . ym = 7776
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 65

To simplify a power of a quotient, x 4 x4

d n = 4
raise each factor in the numerator y y
and the denominator to the same 2 4 24
d n = 4 =
(v) Power of a Quotient Rule 16
exponent. 3 3 81
x m xm
d n = m
y y

d n =d n
To simplify negative exponents, x –4 y 4
write the reciprocal of the base and y x

d n =d n =
use a positive exponent. 2 –4 3 4 81
(vi) Negative Exponent Rule 3 2 16
d n =d n ,
x –m y m
y x –5 1 1 5
x = 5, –5 = x
x x
1 1 1 1 1
x–m = m , –m = x
m –5
2 = 5 = ,
5
–5 = 2 = 32
x x 2 32 2

x = 1, (xy) = 1, d n = 1
Any base (except 0) raised to the 0 0 x 0
(vii) Zero as Exponent Rule power of zero is equal to 1. y

5 = 1, d n = 1
x0 = 1 0 5 0
3

1
x = x, (xy) = xy, d n =
1 1 x x
No change to the base. y y
(viii) One as Exponent Rule
x1 = x 1
7 = 7, d n =
1 5 5
3 3

Note: There are no rules for addition or subtraction of exponents. These operations have to be done
separately.
For example, 23 + 25 = (2 × 2 × 2) + (2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2)
= 8 + 32 = 40

Example 2.3(a) Solving Expressions Using the Product Rule and the Quotient Rule
Solve: (22)3 × 27 ÷ 29
Solution
(22)3 × 27 ÷ 29 = 26 × 27 ÷ 29 = 2(6 + 7 – 9) = 24 = 16

Example 2.3(b) Solving Expressions that Have Exponents with Different Bases
Solve: 24 × 34
Solution 24 × 34 = (2 × 2 × 2 × 2) × (3 × 3 × 3 × 3) = 16 × 81 = 1296

Example 2.3(c) Solving Expressions that Have Negative Exponents

Solve: d n × d n
5 –2 2 –3
4 3
Solution 3
2
2
4 2 3 3 4 3 16 27 2 27 54
d n ×d n =d n ×d n = 2 × 3 = × = × =
5 –2 2 –3
4 3 5 2 5 2 25 8 25 1 25 1
66 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

­Fractional Exponents
When the exponent, 'n', of a variable is a fraction, we call it a fractional exponent. The fractional
1
exponent, , replaces the radical sign, .
n 1 1
For example, the square root of x = √x = x 2 , and the cube root of x = 3√x = x 3 .
1
Similarly, the nth root of x = n√x = x n .
Fractional exponents obey all the rules of exponents.
1
(i) x n = n√x For example, if x = 16 and n = 4, then,
1
16 4 = 4√16 (Read as the fourth root of 16)
=2
(ii) x = (x ) = an√x ) j This refers to calculating the nth root of x, then raising the result to
m 1 m
m
n n

the power of m.
For example, if x = 16, m = 3, and n = 4, then,
3 1
16 4 = a16 4 k = a4√16 j = (2)3 = 8
3 3

Or
1
m
n
x n = (xm) n = √xm  his refers to raising x to the power of m, then calculating the nth
T
root of the result.
For example, if x = 16, m = 3, and n = 4, then,
3 1

16 = a16 k = 4√163 = 4√4096 = 8

4 3 4


Note: The first method is easier because calculating the nth root first results in a smaller number, which
is easier to raise to the power of 'm'.

–m 1 1
(iii) x n = m = m For example, if x = 27, m = 4, and n = 3, then,
x n n
d√ x n
4 1 1 1
27– 3 = 4 = 4 =
d3√27 n (3) 81

2.3 | Exercises Answers to the odd-numbered problems are available at the end of the textbook.

For Problems 1 to 18, simplify where possible and then evaluate. Round to two decimal places, wherever applicable.
106 37
1. a. 54 – 42 b. 4 0 – 44 2. a. 103 – 72 b. 30 + 34 3. a. b.
100 27
85 56 39 × 32 (25)4 29 × 21 (25)4
4. a. b. 5. a. b. 6. a. b.
83 125 35 46 25 163

7. a. –104 × 103 b. (–5)2 × (4)2 8. a. –24 × 22 b. (–2)2 × (3)2 9. a. 3–2 × 33 b. (2 × 32)4

11. a. d n d n 12. a. d n d n
5 2 5 3 5 3 3 2
10. a. 12–8 × 129 b. (5 × 22)3 b. 34 × 3(4 + 2) b. 104 × 10(3 + 2)
2 2 3 5
1 1
212 39
15. a. e o b. e o
1 3 1 3 4 3
6 3 15 5
13. a. (2 ) b. (9) 2 14. a. (5 ) b. (16) 4
24 33

16. a. –1002 × (–10)4 b. –53(–25)3 17. a. 4√ 252 × 252 b. √ 34 × 24 18. a. 4√ 52 × 253 b. 5√ 93 × 274
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 67

For Problems 19 to 36, simplify the expressions and express your answers with positive exponents.

0 4 x6 x0 x7
19. a. x × x b. 0 20. a. x4 × x0 b. 21. a. b. (x5)4 ÷ x3
x x x
x2
22. a. b. (x5)4 ÷ x20 23. a. (5x)(4x2) b. (x9) × (x2) ÷ x5 24. a. (3x) (6x2) b. x10 × x20 ÷ x30
x
25. a. –x4 × x3 b. (–y)4(y)2 26. a. x6 × (–x)5 b. (–y)5 × (y)1 27. a. (xy 2)4 b. x–5 × x 7

x –2 x 3 x 2 x 2 x –3 x 4 x 2 x –8 x 5 x –3
28. a. x0 × x(2 × 3) b. (x3y 2)5 29. a. e o e o e o b. e o e o 30. a. e o e o e o b. e o e o
y y y y y y y y y y
1
1 1
x9 (–x)3(–x)4
33. a. e o
3
32 23 3 –1 6 3 5 –1 32 2 –3 8 4
31. a. (x ) (x ) (x ) b. (27x ) 32. a. (x )(x ) (x ) b. (81x ) b.
x3 x5
1
x19 (–x)6(–x)4
34. a. e o
4

4
b. 9 35. a. 4√ x6x10 b. 3√ x9x6 36. a. 4√ x8x4 b. √ x10x–6
x x

­­­
2.4 | Logarithms
Logarithmic Concepts and Relation to Exponents
We know that multiplication is a quicker method for determining the answer to repeated addition.
For example, 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 is the same as 7 × 5.
Similarly, the use of logarithm is a quicker method for determining the unknown exponent.
Exponential Form Logarithmic Form
3
10 = 1000 log101000 = 3
2
5 = 25 log525 = 2
Exponent

ax = y loga y = x Logarithm
(exponent)
Base Base

Read as: base 'a' raised to the exponent 'x' is 'y' Read as: logarithm of 'y' to the base 'a' is 'x',
or 'a' to the power of 'x' is 'y'. log 'y' to the base 'a' is 'x' , or, most simply, log
base 'a' of 'y' is 'x'.

As seen above, a logarithm is the exponent, 'x', to which the base, 'a', is raised to obtain 'y'.
The base of a
logarithm must be a Any positive number can be used as the base for logarithms.
positive number. It is
only possible to find
For example, 100 is the same as 102. Here, the base is 10 and the exponent is 2. Therefore, the logarithm
logarithms for positive of 100 to the base 10 is 2.
numbers; i.e., there is no 2
logarithm of a negative 10 = 100 is the same as log10 100 = 2
number. 1 44 2 44 3 1 444 2 444 3
Exponentialform
Exponential form Logarithmicform
Logarithmic form

Similarly, 125 is the same as 53. Here, the base is 5 and the exponent is 3; therefore, the logarithm of
125 to the base 5 is 3.
3
5 = 125 is the same as log5 125 = 3
1 44 2 4
43 1 44
4 2 44 43
Exponentialform
Exponential form Logarithmicform
Logarithmic form

ax
x y Exponents and logarithms are interchangeable.
loga y
68 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

­­­Common Logarithms (log)

Common logarithms are always to the base 10. If no base is shown in the common logarithmic
Common logarithms
have base ‘10’ and are expression, it is assumed to have base 10 and is referred to by the symbol 'log'.
referred to by ‘log’.
Common Logarithmic Form Exponential Form
log101000 = log 1000 = 3 103 = 1000
log10100 = log 100 = 2 102 = 100
log1010 = log 10 = 1 101 = 10
log101 = log 1 = 0 100 = 1
log10 y = log y = x 10x = y

Example 2.4(a) Finding Common Logarithms of Numbers

Calculate the following common logarithms rounded to 4 decimal places:

(i) log 10,000 (ii) log 0.001 (iii) log 40 (iv) log 6.5

Solution Using the log button on the calculator:

The Texas Instruments (i) log 10,000 = 4 (ii) log 0.001 = –3 (iii) log 40 = 1.6021 (iv) log 6.5 = 0.8129
BAII Plus calculator
does not include a
log key, as common
logarithms are not
used in financial math
calculations.
­­­Natural Logarithms (ln)
Natural logarithms, referred to by the symbol 'ln' (pronounced "lawn"), are always to the base 'e' where
Natural logarithms
have base ‘e’ and the constant e = 2.718281...
are referred to by ‘ln’.
'e', known as Euler's number, is a special irrational number in
mathematics (similar to π which is equal to 3.141592...) and is found by
1 n
e1+ o where 'n' is a very large number.
n
100,000
Assume n = 100,000. Then e ≈ e1+ o
1
≈ 2.718281...
100,000

If the base of a logarithmic expression is 'e', then it is simply expressed by 'ln'.

To find the natural Natural Logarithmic Form Exponential Form

logarithm of a number loge1 = ln 1 = 0 e0 = 1
with the Texas
Instruments BAII Plus loge e = ln e = 1 e1 = 2.718281…
calculator, enter the loge 10 = ln 10 = 2.302585... e2.302585 = 10
number first then press
the ‘LN’ key. loge 1.005 = ln 1.005 = 0.00498754... e 0.00498754 = 1.005
The rules of logarithms are used to evaluate the exponent 'n' in business
and finance mathematics formulas, which you will study in subsequent
chapters.

The natural logarithm key

on the Texas Instruments
BA II Plus calculator is
the 'LN' button, as shown
in this picture.
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 69

­­­Rules of Logarithms
Common logarithms (log) and natural logarithms (ln) follow the same rules.

Table 2.4 Rules of Logarithms with Examples

Common Logarithms (log) Natural Logarithms (ln)

Rule Rule
# Rule in Common Rule in Natural
Example Example
Logarithmic Form Logarithmic Form

1 Product Rule log (AB) = log A + log B log (50 × 10) = log 50 + log 10 ln (AB) = ln A + ln B ln (50 × 10) = ln 50 + ln 10

log e o = log A – log B log e o = log 50 – log 10 ln e o = ln A – ln B ln e o = ln 50 – ln 10
A 50 A 50
2 Quotient Rule
B 10 B 10

3 Power Rule log (A)n = n log A log (50)2 = 2 log 50 ln (A)n = n ln A ln (50)2 = 2 ln 50

Zero as a power or
4 log (A)0 = log 1 = 0 log (50)0 = log 1 = 0 ln (A)0 = ln 1 = 0 ln (50)0 = ln 1 = 0
One as logarithm

Note: Since x0 = 1, 100 = 1 and e0 = 1; therefore, log101 = 0 log 1 = 0 and loge1 = 0 ln 1 = 0

Example 2.4(b) Solving Equations using Common Logarithms (log)

Solve for 'n' in the following equations:

(i) 2401 = 7n (ii) 157 = 130(1.02)n

Solution (i) 2401 = 7n Taking log on both sides,

n
log 2401 = log 7 Using the Power Rule,
log 2401 = n log 7 Isolating n,
log 2401
n= Solving using the log button on the calculator,
log 7
3.380392...
=
0.845098...
=4

157 = 130(1.02)n
(ii) Dividing both sides by 130,
157
= (1.02)n Taking log on both sides,
130

log d n = log (1.02)n

157
Using the Power Rule,
130

log d n = n log (1.02)

157
Isolating n,
130
157
log e 130 n
n= Solving using the log button on the calculator,
log (1.02)

0.081956...
=
0.008600...
= 9.529612...
70 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Example 2.4(c) Solving Equations using Natural Logarithms (ln)

Solve for 'n' in the following equations:
(i) 1024 = 2n (ii) 3749 = 1217(1.005)n
Solution (i) 1024 = 2n
Taking ln on both sides,
ln 1024 = ln 2n Using the Power Rule,
ln 1024 = n ln 2 Isolating n,
ln 1024
n= Solving using the button on the calculator,
ln 2
6.931471... Alternatively, since 1024 = 210,
=
0.693147... ln 1024 ln 210 10 × ln 2
n= = = = 10
= 10 ln 2 ln 2 ln 2

(ii) 3749 = 1217(1.005)n Dividing both sides by 1217,

3749
= (1.005)n Taking ln on both sides,
1217

ln e o = ln (1.005)n
3749
Using the Power Rule,
1217

o = n ln 1.005 Isolating n,
3749
lne
1217
3749
lne o
n= 1217 Solving using the button on the calculator,
ln 1.005
1.125100...
=
0.004987...
= 225.582147...

2.4 | Exercises Answers to the odd-numbered problems are available at the end of the textbook.

Express the following in logarithmic form:

1. a. 105 = 100,000 b. 26 = 64 c. 32 = 9 2. a. 104 = 10,000 b. 23 = 8 c. 33 = 27
5
3. a. 4 = 1024 b. 65 = 7776 c. 94 = 6561 4. a. 44 = 256 b. 64 = 1296 c. 82 = 64
Express the following in exponential form:
5. a. log10100 = 2 b. log232 = 5 c. log3729 = 6 6. a. log101000 = 3 b. log24 = 2 c. log3243 = 5

7. a. log464 = 3 b. log5625 = 4 c. log6216 = 3 8. a. log44096 = 6 b. log5125 = 3 c. log61296 = 4

Calculate the following (round to four decimal places):

9. a. ln 2250 b. ln 154 c. ln 27 10. a. ln 0.165 b. ln 1.02 c. ln 12.51
11. a. ln 10.05 b. ln 1.005 c. ln 0.675 12. a. ln 39 b. ln 276 c. ln 1550
For the following problems, solve for 'n' (round to two decimal places).
13. a. 250 = (30)n b. 7500 = (45)n + 500 14. a. 320 = (15)n b. 8000 = (35)n + 1500
15. a. 10,000 = 2000(1.2)n b. (1.05)n = 1.31 16. a. 15,000 = 5000 (1.04)n b. 2.5 = (1.05)n

Express the following as a sum or difference of two or more natural logarithms:

17. a. lne o 18. a. lne o

3 40
b. ln(4 × 9) b. ln(7 × 8)
7 13
AB
o
X
o
x
o
xy
19. a. lne b. lne 20. a. lne b. lne o
C YZ ab c
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 71
For the following problems, express your answer as a single natural logarithm.
21. a. ln 8 + ln 5 b. ln 15 – ln 3 22. a. ln 25 + ln 4 b. ln 60 – ln 15

23. a. 2 ln 5 + 3 ln 3 b. 5 ln2 – 2 ln 3 24. a. 2 ln 8 + 3 ln 3 b. 4 ln 5 – 3 ln 2
25. a. 2 ln 5 b. 3 ln 6 26. a. 5 ln 2 b. 6 ln 3
a x
27. a. 5 ln b. 4 ln (a × b) 28. a. 2 ln b. 4 ln (xy)
b y
29. 3 ln a + 2 ln b – 5 ln c 30.  ln x – 2 ln y + 3 ln z 31. 3 ln 2 + 4 ln 3 – 2 ln 4 32. 4 ln 2 – 2 ln 3 + 3 ln 2
For the following problems, solve for 'n' (round to two decimal places).

33. a. n = ln e o  b. n = ln e o 34. a. n = ln e o b. n = ln e o

4285 3645 6750 75,000
4000 2175 3200 2200

ln e o ln e o
7200 5120
4725 ln(2.5) 2250 ln(3)
35. a. n =  b. n = 36. a. n = b. n =
ln(1.01) ln(1.03) ln(1.005) ln(1.02)

0.005 × 75,000 0.025 × 60,000

ln >1 + H ln >1 + H
1250 500
37. n = 38. n =
ln[1.005] ln[1.025]
39. 6500 = 8000(1.02)–n 40. 4750 = 5250(1.015)–n

­­­
2.5 | Formulas and Applications
Formulas are similar to equations. In formulas, the relationship among many variables is written
as a rule for performing calculations, so that a single variable, known as the subject of the formula,
is on the left side of the equation and everything else is on the right side of the equation. To isolate
one of the variables in a formula, rearrange the terms and simplify, so that only the required variable
remains on the left side of the equation. Rearrangement can be performed using the rules that you
have learned in the previous sections of this chapter.
To solve for a required variable using a formula, it is important to know what each symbol in the
formula represents. For example, consider the formula for simple interest: I = Prt. In this simple
interest formula, 'I' represents the amount of simple interest, 'P' represents the amount of investment
or loan, also known as the principal, 'r' represents the interest rate per annum, and 't' represents the
time period in years.
To solve for any one of the variables, 'I', 'P', 'r', or 't' in this simple interest formula, we can rearrange
the variables, as shown below:
I = Prt is the same as Prt = I
Solving for 'P' :
Prt I
= Dividing both sides by 'rt',
rt rt
I
P=
rt
Solving for 'r' :
Prt I
= Dividing both sides by 'Pt',
Pt Pt
I
r=
Pt
72 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

Solving for 't' :

Prt I
= Dividing both sides by 'Pr',
Pr Pr
I
t=
Pr

Example 2.5(a) Rearranging to Isolate Variables

Rearrange and isolate the variables indicated in the brackets:
(i) S = C + M (M) (ii) S = C + E + P (P)
(iii) P = RB (R and B) (iv) y = mx + b (b and m)
(v) S = P(1 + rt) (P)

Solution (i)   S=C+M (M)

­­­C + M = S Subtracting 'C' from both sides,
C – C + M = S – C
M=S–C
(ii) S = C + E + P (P)
C + E + P = S Subtracting 'C' and 'E' from both sides,
C + E + P – C – E = S – C – E
P=S–C–E
(iii) P = RB (R) P = RB (B)
RB = P Dividing both sides by 'B', RB = P Dividing both sides by 'R',
RB P RB P
= =
B B R R
P P
R= B=
B R
(iv) y = mx + b (b) y = mx + b (m)
mx + b = y S ubtracting 'mx' from mx + b = y Subtracting 'b' from both sides,
both sides, mx + b – b = y – b
mx – mx + b = y – mx mx = y – b Dividing both sides by 'x',
b = y – mx mx y – b
=
x x
y–b
m=
x
(v) S = P(1 + rt) (P)
P(1 + rt) = S Isolating 'P' by dividing both sides by '(1 + rt)',
P(1 + rt) S
=
(1 + rt) (1 + rt)
S
P=
(1 + rt)

Example 2.5(b) Solving for Variables Using the Rearranged Simple Interest Formula
In the simple interest formula I = Prt, determine the value for:

(i)  'I', when P = $1000, r = 5% = 0.05, t = 3 years

(ii)  'P', when I = $150, r = 3% = 0.03, t = 1 year
(iii) 'r', when I = $500, P = $8000, t = 2 years
(iv)  't', when I = $40, P = $800, r = 5% = 0.05
Round your answers to two decimal places, wherever applicable.
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 73

Solution (i) Substitute the values for 'P', 'r', and 't' in the formula: I = Prt
I = 1000.00 × 0.05 × 3 = $150.00

I
(ii) Substitute the values for 'I', 'r', and, 't' in the rearranged formula: P =
150.00 rt
P= = $5000.00
(0.03 × 1)
I
(iii)  Substitute the values for 'I', 'P', and 't' in the rearranged formula: r =
Pt
500.00
r= = 0.03125 = 3.125% = 3.13% (Rounded to two decimal places.)
8000.00 × 2
I
(iv) Substitute the values for 'I', 'P', and 'r' in the rearranged formula: t =
Pr
40.00
t = = 1 year
800.00 × 0.05

Example 2.5(c) Rearranging Formulas to Isolate Variables and Solving Using the Rearranged Formulas

In the compound interest formula, FV = PV (1 + i)n , rearrange and solve for the following variables,
rounding to 2 decimal places:

(i) 'n', when PV = $2500, FV = $8500, i = 4.5% = 0.045 (ii)  'i', when PV = $4800, FV = $10,000, n = 48

Solution (i) FV = PV (1 + i)n Dividing both sides by PV,

FV = (1 + i)n Taking the natural logarithm on both sides,
PV
FV
ln e PV o = ln (1 + i)
n
Using the Power Rule,

FV
ln e PV o = n × ln (1 + i) Isolating n,
FV
ln ePVo
n= Substituting the given values in the rearranged formula,
ln (1 + i)
8500.00
ln e 2500.00 n
n= Solving using the button on the calculator,
ln (1 + 0.045)
1.223775...
n=
0.044016...
= 27.802408... = 27.80

(ii) FV = PV (1 + i)n Dividing both sides by PV,

FV

= (1 + i)n Taking the nth root on both sides,
PV
1
FV n
(1 + i) = e PV n Isolating i,
1
FV n
i = e PV n – 1 Substituting the given values in the rearranged formula,
1
10,000.00 48
i = e 4800.00 n – 1 
Solving using the exponent button on the calculator,

= 0.015408... = 1.54%
74 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

2.5 | Exercises Answers to the odd-numbered problems are available at the end of the textbook.

For Problems 1 to 14, rearrange and isolate the indicated variables.

1. 'C' in S = C + M 2. 'M' in S = C + M 3. 'E' in S = C + E + P 4. 'C' in S = C + E + P

5. 'B' in P = R × B 6. 'R' in P = R × B 7. 'r' in S = P(1 + rt) 8. 't' in S = P(1 + rt)

ac c + ac
9. 'L' in N = L(1 – d) 10. 'd' in N = L(1 – d) 11. 'a' and 'c' in b = 12. 'a' and 'c' in b =
1–a a–2
a–c ab – b
13. 'a' and 'b' in c = 14. 'a' and 'b' in c =
b 4+a
For Problems 15 to 34, express the answers rounded to two decimal places, wherever applicable.
In the simple interest formula I = Prt, determine the value for:
10 91
15. a. 'I', when P = $4500, r = 0.05, t = b. 'P', when I = $20.75, r = 0.0475, t =
12 365
8 180
16. a. 'I', when P = $1200, r = 0.0325, t = b. 'P', when I = $65.50, r = 0.0525, t =
12 365
7
17. a. 'r', when P = $4850, I = $162.65, t = b. 't', when P = $850, r = 0.035, I = $19.50
12
9
18. a. 'r', when P = $5775, I = $296.75, t = b. 't', when P = $9250, r = 0.075, I = $635.94
12
In the simple interest formula S = P(1 + rt), determine the value for:
9 280
19. a. 'S', when P = $6500, r = 0.065, t = b. 'P', when S = $8260.80, r = 0.0425, t =
12 365
4 132
20. a. 'S', when P = $1500, r = 0.075, t = b. 'P', when S = $10,135.62, r = 0.0375, t =
12 365
In the trade discount formula N = L(1 – d), determine the value for:
21. a. 'L', when N = $3000, d = 0.40 b. 'd', when L = $900, N = $675

22. a. 'L', when N = $10,000, d = 0.20 b. 'd', when L = $1280, N = $1126.40

n
In the compound interest formula FV = PV(1 + i) , determine the value for:
23. 'FV', when PV = $5000, i = 0.0375, n = 4 24. 'FV', when PV = $40,000, i = 0.0425, n = 12
17 25
25. 'FV', when PV = $2500, i = 0.0004, n = 26. 'FV', when PV = $7750, i = 0.0035, n =
12 6
27. 'PV', when FV = $7769.72, i = 0.00375, n = 24 28. 'PV', when FV = $4364.12, i = 0.00475, n = 39
m
In the effective interest rate formula f = (1 + i) – 1, determine the value for ' f' when:
29. i = 0.03, m = 4 30. i = 0.02, m = 2
1

In the periodic interest rate formula i = e

FV
o – 1, determine the value for 'i' when:
n

PV
31. PV = $3000, FV = $3280.85, n = 8 32. PV = $8600, FV = $11,587.22, n = 24
m1

In the equivalent interest rate formula i2 = (1 + i1)m – 1, determine the value for 'i2' when:
2

0.078 0.096
33. i1 = , m1 = 12, m2 = 4 34. i1 = , m1 = 4, m2 = 12
12 4
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 75
For Problems 35 to 40, isolate the indicated variables.
Vf – Vi Vf – Vi
35. In the formula C = , isolate 'V f ' 36. In the formula C = , isolate 'Vi '
Vi Vi
FV FV
37. In the formula PV = n , isolate 'n' 38. In the formula PV = , isolate 'i'
(1 + i) (1 + i)n

39. In the formula f = (1 + i) m, isolate 'm' 40. In the formula f = (1 + i) m, isolate 'i'

2 | Review Exercises
Answers to the odd-numbered problems are available at the end of the textbook.

1. Simplify the following expressions then evaluate: 6. Write as algebraic expressions:

a. –4x 2 + 3x – 5 + 7x 2 – 2x + 3, a. Eight decreased by twice a number
where x = 2 b. Six less than the total of a number and ten
b. 4x 2 – 5 + 7x – 2x 2 – x – 3,
c. Sum of 15 and half of a number
where x = –1
c. –y2 + 4xy + x 2 – 6y2 – xy – 11x 2, d. Product of two times a number and seven
where x = 1 and y = 2 For Problems 7 to 10, write the expression as an algebraic
d. (x – 4)(x + 2) + 3(x + 2),
equation and solve.
where x = 3
7. a. The sum of five times a number and seventeen is
2. Simplify the following expressions then evaluate: forty-two.
a. 3x 2 – x + 2 + x 2 – 5x – 2,
b. A number divided by fifteen is forty-five.
where x = 3
2 2
b. –5y – 7y + 3 + y – 5y + 2, 8. a. The sum of two times a number and eight is one
where y = –2 hundred.
2 2 2 2
c. –4x + 6xy – 6y + 6x – 2xy + 3y ,
b. A number divided by three is seven.
where x = 2 and y = 1
d. (y – 2)(y – 3) + 2(y – 2), 9. a. The difference between a number and ten is ten.
where y = 4 b. The product of four times a number and three is
3. Factor the following expressions, then evaluate: thirty-six.
a. 6x 2 – 4x where x = 1 10. a. The product of five and a number is seventy-five.
3 2
b. 3y – 12y where y = –2 b. Three more than two times a number is nine.
2
c. 7xy + 14x where x = 1 and y = 2 For Problems 11 to 14, solve for the unknown variable, 'x'.
3 2
d. 9x – 6x + 3x where x = 3 x
11. a. 5x – 5 = 10 b. + 4 = 10
4. Factor the following expressions, then evaluate: 3
a. 8y2 – 64y where y = 2 x
12. a. 3x – 5 = –17 b. –2=1
2 3 4
b. 16x – 4x where x = –1
2 13. a. 12 – 3x = 3 – 4x b. 4(x + 4) = 24
c. 15y + 10xy where x = –1 and y = 2
3 2
d. 16x + 8x – 4x where x = 2 14. a. 4x – 2 = 13 – 6x b. 3(2x – 5) = 3

5. Write as algebraic expressions:
a. Twelve increased by three times a number
b. Difference between a number and five
c. Product of three more than a number and the
number
d. Sum of ten times a number and fifteen
15. Aran bought a shirt and a pair of pants for $34.75.
The pair of of pants cost $9.75 more than the shirt.
Calculate the cost of the shirt.
16. Mythili bought a schoolbag and a toy for $30.45. The
schoolbag cost $5.45 more than the toy. Calculate the
cost of the schoolbag.
76 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra

17. Simplify and evaluate: 25. Solve for 'n' and express the answer to two decimal places:
8
2 3 2 3 2
a. (–3) + 2 b. (–3) (2 ) c. a. 2060 = 1225(1.02)
n
b. 5215 = (1.005) n + 600
24
18. Simplify and evaluate: 26. Solve for 'n' and express the answer to two decimal places:
37
3 2 3
a. (–5) + 3 b. 2 (–2)
4
c. a. 6075 = 4150(1.03)n b. 4815 = (1.04) n + 900
35
27. Solve for 'n' and express the answer to two decimal places:
For Problems 19 to 24, simplify the expression and express
2775
your answer with a positive exponent. ln e o ln(3)
4 –2
1
49 a. n = e 1200
o b. n =
b. e o
3 ln(1.03) ln(1.02)
19. a. √125 c. 5
9 4 × 42 28. Solve for 'n' and express the answer to two decimal places:
34 × 32
2
1 –3 4950
20. a. 5√32 b. e o c. 3 ln e o ln(1200)
8 3 1250
a. n = b. n =
ln(1.005) ln(5)
x6 x2 x 2
21. 4
a. (x )(3x ) b. 3
c. e o e 2o 1
x2 y 2y 29. In the formula V = πr 2h, isolate 'r'
9 2
3
x 2x 3x
c. e o e 2o
3
22. a. (x3)(2x5) b. 6 4
x y y πr 3,
30. In the formula V = isolate 'r'
3 3 7 3
4x x 2
b. e o c. e o
1
6 3
23. a. (8x )
2y 2 x0
3x2 2
x0 3
b. e 3o c. e o
1
2
24. a. (4x ) 2 3
4y y

2 | Self-Test Exercises
Answers to all the problems are available at the end of the textbook.

1. Simplify the following expressions first, then evaluate:
a. 2x 2 + 5x + 1 – 4 – 3x – x 2,
where x = 2
2 2
b. –3x + 2x + 2x – 8x + 10,
where x = –3
2 2
c. 9x – 4xy + y – 6y – 3xy + 10x ,
where x = 1 and y = 2
d. 5(2x – 3y) – 2(3x – 2y) + 7,
where x = 2 and y = 1
3. Write as algebraic expressions:
a. Twenty-five less than three times a number
b. A number increased by eighteen
c. The difference between twice a number and six
2 2
d. The quotient of a number and three
4. Write the following as an algebraic equation and solve:
a. Nine less than twice a number is twenty-one.

2. Factor the following expressions first, then evaluate: b. Twenty-two is five times a number decreased by 3.
2
a. 18y – 12y, where y = –2 5. Write the following as an algebraic equation and solve:
3 2
b. 15y + 12y + 3y, where y = 1 a. Four times eight is sixteen times a number.
2
c. 14xy – 21x , where x = 2 and y = 1 b. Thirty is a product of six and a number.
2 2
d. 8xy – 6x y, where x = 1 and y = –1
 Chapter 2 | Review of Basic Algebra 77

6. Solve for the unknown variable 'x', using principles of For Problems 11 to 13, solve for 'n' and express the answer
equations: rounded to two decimal places.
a. 24 – 5x = 4 b. 8 + 2x = 4 – 5x 11. 2200
ln e o ln(1475)
x 1200
c. – 2 = 4 d. 3(3x – 3) = 33 a. n = b. n =
3 ln(1.04) ln(10)

7. A 30-metre chain is cut into two pieces. The length of ln(3) n

1 12. a. n = b. 460 = 240(1.05)
one piece is 1 2 times the other. Calculate the length of ln(1.02)
each piece.
13. a. 750 = (1.05) n + 600 b. 1296 = 6 n
8. Twenty more than five times a number is the same as
thirty less than three times the number. What is the 14. In the formula f = (1 + i)m – 1, solve for ' f ' (rounding to
number? four decimal places) when,
9. Simplify the expression, then evaluate: 0.05
3 4 3 2 a. i = and m = 2
a. (–2) (–2) b. (–5) + 2 12
(–10)5
c. 2 d. 3√27 b. i = 0.005 and m = 2
(–10)
1
53 × 54 15. In the formula S = P(1 + rt),
e. (216) 3 f.
5 2 a. Isolate 't'
10. Simplify the expression and express your answer with a b. Find the value of 't' when S = $1200,
positive exponent: P = $1000, and r = 0.10
a. (3x3)2 b. (4x2y3)2
1 x6
0 4 2
c. (16x y ) d. e o
x2
x–7 x–3
e. (x–3y)2 f.
x–10