A mathematical expression, in itself, is not a sentence. However, a mathematical sentence is formed when you combine mathematical expressions with a relation symbol (like =, >, <, ≤, or ≥) to express a complete thought or relationship.
In more detail:
-
Mathematical Expression: A combination of numbers, variables, and operation symbols (+, -, ×, ÷, etc.). For example:
x + 5
,3y - 2
,a^2 + b^2
. These expressions represent a value but do not make a statement about that value in relation to something else. Think of them as mathematical "phrases." -
Mathematical Sentence (Equation or Inequality): A statement that expresses a relationship between two mathematical expressions using a relation symbol. This forms a complete thought, similar to a sentence in English. For example:
- Equation:
x + 5 = 10
(This states that the expressionx + 5
is equal to 10.) - Inequality:
3y - 2 > 7
(This states that the expression3y - 2
is greater than 7.) a^2 + b^2 ≤ c^2
(This states that the expressiona^2 + b^2
is less than or equal toc^2
.)
- Equation:
Therefore, a mathematical sentence takes one or more expressions and uses relational symbols to make a statement about their relationship. This creates a full, meaningful mathematical statement that can be evaluated as true or false (depending on the values of the variables).