Part B Arithmetic and Algebra

We present here a brief review of arithmetic and algebra to the point that it is used or assumed in this text. Formal mathematical statement and development are avoided. The only purpose of this section is to refresh your memory in areas where it may be needed. 

Subtraction may be thought of as the addition of a negative number. In that sense, a - b = a + (- b). Example  

Multiplication by 1 n X 1 = n. If any number is multiplied by 1, the product is the original number. Examples  

A reciprocal is sometimes referred to as the inverse (more specifically, the multiplicative inverse) of a number. This is because the product of any number multiplied by its reciprocal equals 1. Examples  

If two or more fractions are to be multiplied, the product is equal to the product of the numerators divided by the product of the denominators. Example  

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