Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with symbols and variables to represent and solve mathematical equations. Key aspects of algebra include: - Equations: Formulas used to find unknown quantities, such as bank interest, proportions, and percentages. - Operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of algebraic expressions and equations. - Types of expressions: Monomials, binomials, trinomials, polynomials, and quadratic equations. Branches of algebra include: - Elementary algebra: Basic properties of numbers, variables, and constants. - Abstract algebra: Studies algebraic systems independently of their specific nature. - Linear algebra: Deals with linear equations and their representations through vectors and matrices. Algebra is widely used in everyday life, science, engineering, economics, and finance.