Operations refer to the set of basic mathematical functions used to perform calculations. There are four basic operations in mathematics, which are addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These operations are essential to perform various mathematical tasks, such as solving equations, simplifying expressions, and calculating measurements.
Addition
Addition is a basic operation used to find the sum of two or more numbers. The symbol used for addition is “+”. The two or more numbers being added are called addends. For example, if we add 3 and 5, we get the sum of 8. The order of the addends does not change the result, so 5 + 3 is also equal to 8.
Subtraction
Subtraction is the inverse operation of addition. It is used to find the difference between two numbers. The symbol used for subtraction is “-”. The first number being subtracted is called the minuend, and the second number is called the subtrahend. For example, if we subtract 5 from 10, we get the difference of 5. The order of the numbers does change the result, so 10 – 5 is not equal to 5 – 10.
Multiplication
Multiplication is a basic operation used to find the product of two or more numbers. The symbol used for multiplication is “x” or “*”. The two or more numbers being multiplied are called factors. For example, if we multiply 2 and 4, we get the product of 8. The order of the factors does not change the result, so 4 x 2 is also equal to 8.
Division
Division is the inverse operation of multiplication. It is used to find the quotient between two numbers. The symbol used for division is “÷” or “/”. The first number being divided is called the dividend, and the second number is called the divisor. For example, if we divide 8 by 4, we get the quotient of 2. The order of the numbers does change the result, so 8 ÷ 4 is not equal to 4 ÷ 8.
Practice Exercise
Now that you have learned about the four basic operations in mathematics, let’s try a practice exercise.
- What is the sum of 5 and 7?
- What is the difference between 8 and 3?
- What is the product of 4 and 9?
- What is the quotient of 20 divided by 5?
Answers:
- 12
- 5
- 36
- 4
Conclusion
Operations are essential in mathematics and are used to perform various mathematical tasks. By understanding the four basic operations, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, you can solve mathematical problems with ease. Remember to always use the correct symbols and order of numbers when performing operations.