Equality refers to the state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities. In mathematics, equality is a relationship between two expressions that represent the same value. The symbol "=" is used to indicate equality.
Types of Equality
There are two main types of equality in mathematics:
Numerical Equality: This type of equality refers to the equality of two numerical values, such as 4 = 2 + 2.
Variable Equality: In this type, variables are used to represent unknown values, and equations are used to show the equality of two expressions, such as x + 3 = 7.
Properties of Equality
When working with equations, it's important to understand the properties of equality:
Number and Operations: Students' work in dividing fractions shows them that they can express the result of dividing two whole numbers as a fraction (viewed as parts of a whole). Students then extend their work in grade 5 with division of whole numbers to give mixed number and decimal solutions to division problems with whole numbers. They recognize that ratio tables not only derive from rows in the multiplication table but also connect with equivalent fractions. Students distinguish multiplicative comparisons from additive comparisons.