In mathematics, a constant is a value that does not change. It is fixed and remains the same throughout a given problem or equation. Constants can appear in various forms, such as specific numbers, variables with known values, or symbols representing unchanging values.
Some examples for constants are:
- Pi (π): The ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter, approximately 3.14159, is a constant because it has the same value for any circle.
- Euler’s Number (e): A mathematical constant approximately equal to 2.71828, used in exponential growth and logarithmic functions.
- Zero (0): In equations, 0 is a constant because it does not change value.
- Speed of Light (c): In physics, the speed of light is constant at approximately 299,792,458 meters per second.
Constant Term in Algebraic Expression
In an algebraic expression, a constant term is a term that does not contain any variables and has a fixed value. It is simply a number that stands alone in the expression.
For example, in algebraic expression 2x2 + 3x - 11, -11 is constant.
How to Recognize a Constant in Algebraic Expression?
To recognize a constant in an algebraic expression, Look for terms without variables. For example, in the expression 3x + 5, the constant is 5 because it is a standalone number, not multiplied by any variable.
Types of Constant
In mathematics, constants are values that do not change and remain fixed throughout mathematical operations or equations. They can be classified into several types based on their properties:
- Fixed Constants: These are constants with specific, unchanging values that remain constant across all calculations.
Examples include mathematical constants like π (pi) or Euler's number, e.
- Mathematical Constants: These constants arise from mathematical principles and have significant mathematical importance. They often appear in formulas, equations, and mathematical identities.
Examples include Euler's number (e), the golden ratio (φ), and the imaginary unit (i).
- Physical Constants: Physical constants are values that represent fundamental physical quantities and are used in scientific calculations and equations.
Examples include the speed of light in vacuum (c), the gravitational constant (G), and the Planck constant (h).
- Universal Constants: Universal constants are values that are consistent across different mathematical and scientific disciplines. They are widely used in various mathematical and scientific contexts.
Examples include the speed of light (c) and Planck's constant (h).
- Variable Constants: Variable constants are values that remain constant within a specific mathematical context or equation but may vary in different contexts or equations. They are often represented by symbols and can change value depending on the situation.
Examples include constants used in algebraic equations, such as a, b, and c in a quadratic equation.
Read the Difference between constant and variables here.
Read More,
Examples on Constant in Mathematics
Example 1: Identify the constant term in the given algebraic expression: 3x2 + 2xy − 7.
Solution:
Given Expression, 3x2 + 2xy − 7
Constant term in the expression is −7
Example 2: Compute the value of the given algebraic expression: 5a + 3 when a = 2.
Solution:
Given Expression, 5a + 3 when a = 2
Substituting a = 2 into the expression,
= 5(2) + 3
= 10 + 3 = 13
Example 3: Solve the equation 2x + 8 = 16 for the value of x.
Solution:
Given Expression,
2x + 8 = 16
⇒ 2x + 8 - 8 = 16 -8
⇒ 2x = 8
⇒ 2x/2 = 8/2
⇒ x = 4
Similar Reads
Expressions in Math Expressions in math are combinations of numbers, variables, operators, and sometimes parentheses that represent a particular value. An expression is a statement involving at least two different numbers or variables and at least one operation, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division,
6 min read
Introduction to MathJS Math.js is a powerful JavaScript library designed to make mathematical computations easier and more efficient for developers. It offers a comprehensive suite of mathematical functions and utilities, making it an invaluable tool for handling complex calculations in various applications. Reasons to Le
4 min read
Grade 8 Maths Mathematics is an important subject that helps us think, solve problems, and understand the world better. In Grade 8, students learn new and exciting concepts that build on what they already know and prepare them for higher grades.This guide provides a simple chapter-by-chapter overview of Grade 8 M
3 min read
Class 12 Maths Formulas Class 12 maths formulas page is designed for the convenience of the learners so that one can understand all the important concepts of Class 12 Mathematics directly and easily. Math formulae for Class 12 are for the students who find mathematics to be a nightmare and difficult to grasp. They may beco
15+ min read
CBSE Class 9 Maths Formulas GeeksforGeeks present Maths Chapterwise Formulas for Class 9. This is designed for the convenience of the students so that one can understand all the important concepts of Class 9 Mathematics directly and easily. Math formulae for Class 9 are offered here for students who find the topic of mathemati
15+ min read