Numbers

Before we study algebra, it helps to have a good understanding of the number laws. If you find that you're getting lost in algebra, come back to this chapter for revision.

In this chapter, we learn about:

• Integers (the whole numbers, plus negative whole numbers)
• Number properties (where we learn about imaginary and real numbers, rational and irrational numbers, prime numbers and reciprocals)
• Order of operations (why 3 + 2 × 4 does not equal 20)
• Powers, roots and radicals (indices)
• Approximate numbers (significant digits)
• Scientific notation (for really large and really small numbers)
• Ratio and proportion (comparing two or more quantities)
• Why do we find some people more beautiful than others? It could be due to Math Behind the Beauty.
• Pi is a special number in mathematics.

Some special numbers:

π, √2, 7, 0.56, e

Now, let's start with an introduction to integers »