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How practical is algebra in the real world? When will you ever have to solve for X?
I ran an algebraic formula to test the first hybrid circuits, made by hand, and remembered it for years afterward. We'd run the chip to hot, run the formula, and then run the chip to below freezing. It had to
come up with the same numbers to pass.
How practical is algebra in the real world? When will you ever have to solve for X?
I think personal finance and learning about compound interest and staying out of debt and investing is far more practical than algebra. I think algebra is useless for 99% of students while 99% can benefit from personal finance math.
Getting a D in algebra in 7th grade was the only blot on my entire high school career. I re-took the class in summer school (where we basically got credit for arriving on time every day, so I got an A to replace that grade) — to the relief of my parents who were told I would "never get into college" unless I had algebra. Of course that turned out to be absurd. I earned a BA and an MFA without ever taking another math class and, as far as I know, I've never used algebra in my work or personal life to this day. And I'm a pretty good cook. I'm sure, however, there are plenty of excellent professions in which algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics are necessary, so I would never discourage anyone from studying them. Learning is always good.
I think personal finance and learning about compound interest and staying out of debt and investing is far more practical than algebra. I think algebra is useless for 99% of students while 99% can benefit from personal finance math.
Your comment confused me. Personal finance is full of algebra.
What are the payments if...
What rate is needed to have a certain amount of money if...
How long will it take to accrue...
It's disturbing that people are so resistant to the word "algebra" that they don't realize how they actually use algebra almost daily.
Last edited by charlygal; 01-04-2014 at 10:19 AM..
There are many ways you can use algebra in the real world, but sometimes you don't realize that you are using algebraic reasoning.
For example: When filling your car up with gas you can use a form of algebra. Suppose you only have $20.00 to spend on gas today and gas is $3.50 a gallon. How many gallons can you buy?
Another one: You have $800 to spend on everything. You know a new game system costs $400 and extra controller $40. Assuming a game costs $60 how many games can you buy?
Depending on your career, you might need algebra more. Algebra is used widely in electrical,electronic,civil and mechanical engineering as well as physics, chemical and aeronautical engineering.
Other careers that use algebra include:
Market Research Analysts
Animators
Fitness Trainers
Architects
Chefs
Pharmacists
In my work 90% of what I have to do involves algebra or algebraic reasoning. When I was in 8th grade I thought it a waste and something I would never use.
I took Algebra, Calculus 1-4 and Differential Equations for classes. Probably another course or two as well.
We also took other courses like Humanities, and Economics. At the time I said "when will I ever need this", but looking back, I enjoyed those courses and remember in good deal what they taught me
Here's today's algebra problem. Any takers? Show your work.
Suzy is ten years older than Billy, and next year she will be twice as old as Billy. How old are they now?
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Dear Algebra
