What is the difference between Expression and Equation?

Asked by Juul , Last updated: Apr 16, 2024

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D. Loukas, Maths Professor, Diploma in Mathematics, Beverly hills, California

Answered Jun 08, 2020

A mathematical expression is a limited sequence of symbols that is stated according to a set of rules. A symbol can be a number, bracket, function, or grouping that helps define the order of tasks. An example of a mathematical expression would be 8x – 5.

An equation in mathematics is a declaration that contends the equivalence of two expressions. This equivalence is represented by a sign which is =, and an example would be 3x + 4 =16.

A. Lucius, Senior Content writer, Diploma in Literature, Dover, Delaware

Answered Jun 05, 2020

One of the simplest ways to differentiate between equations and expressions is by checking whether the equal sign (=) is present or not. One of the major features of a typical mathematical equation is the presence of an equal sign. In contrast, mathematical expressions don't come with an equal sign. For instance, 2x+ 5 = 10 is a typical example of a mathematical equation, whereas 2x² + 6y + 10 is just a mathematical expression. As a result of this, we can simply say equations are complete forms of mathematical expressions since they show a very clear relationship between two expressions separated by an equal sign.

In contrast, expressions are incomplete mathematical statements since they do not show any form of relationship. Also, since expressions don't show any relationship between variables, they can only be simplified, whereas equations are meant to be solved by using various processes so as to find the values for all the variable(s) present.