An equation is a mathematical statement that two expressions are equal, joined by an equals sign. Solving one means finding the value or values of the variable that make the statement true.
Math Dictionary / Equation
Equation
An equation is a statement that two expressions are equal.
AlgebraGrade 6Grade 7Grade 8Algebra 1GEDSATACT
What it means
It always has an equal sign.
Also called: equal statement
Examples
| x + 5 = 12 |
| 3a = 18 |
| y = 2x + 1 |
Common mistake
An expression does not have an equal sign; an equation does.
Try one
Question: Is 4x + 7 an equation?
Show answer
No. It has no equal sign.