Before analyzing problem situations in order to write equations, let’s pause to review what different arithmetic operations look like in problem situations.
Recall from previous courses that you need to identify which operations to perform on rational numbers or real numbers in order to solve a problem. In algebra, the ideas are similar, except you may now need to use those operations to work with variables, constants, or both.
In the table below, you will see different situations in the left-hand column. Determine the action occurring in the situation, and then click in the Action column next to the situation to check your answer. Select the appropriate mathematical operation for each action from the drop-list box next to the Action column.
What types of actions result in using addition?
Interactive popup. Assistance may be required. Addition is used when quantities are being combined together.
What types of actions result in using subtraction?
Interactive popup. Assistance may be required. Subtraction is used when quantities are being removed.
What types of actions result in using multiplication?
Interactive popup. Assistance may be required. Multiplication is used when rates are applied to a quantity.
What types of actions result in using division?
Interactive popup. Assistance may be required. Division is used when a larger quantity is distributed evenly.