Algebra And Functions: Math Terms Explained

Plain-language definitions of every algebra and functions term your child meets in school, each with kid-friendly explanations, worked examples, and common mistakes to watch for.

Equation

An equation is a math statement that shows two things are equal, using an equals sign, and it can be checked by seeing if the values on both sides are the same.

Exponential decay

Exponential decay is a type of exponential function where a quantity decreases by the same percentage in each equal time step, so it gets smaller and smaller but never reaches zero in a finite number of steps.

Exponential function

An exponential function is a function where the variable is in the exponent, typically written in the form f(x) = a · bx, and the output changes by the same factor (is multiplied) over equal steps in x instead of changing by the same amount.

Exponential growth

Exponential growth is a type of change where a quantity increases by the same percentage or factor in each equal time step, so its value speeds up and grows faster and faster over time.

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