In algebra, the word ‘of’ is often used to indicate multiplication or a part of a whole. This usage can be particularly common when dealing with percentages, fractions, or proportions.
For instance, when you see a statement like ‘50% of 200’, this translates to multiplying 50% (or 0.50 as a decimal) by 200:
- Calculation: 50% of 200 = 0.50 × 200 = 100
Similarly, if you come across ‘3 of 4’, it generally means 3 multiplied by 4:
- Calculation: 3 of 4 = 3 × 4 = 12
Understanding this concept is essential in algebra, as it helps in various mathematical calculations, especially in word problems where clarity in interpreting terms like ‘of’ can lead to correct answers.
Thus, whenever you encounter ‘of’ in algebraic contexts, think of it as a signal to multiply, helping to solve equations and understand mathematical relationships more comprehensively.