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IDENTITY

Identity

Definition Of Identity

Identity Equation: An equation which is true for every value of the variable is called an identity equation. 
Examples of identity equation: 5(a - 3) = 5a - 15, (a + b)2 = a2 + 2ab + b2

Identity Inequality: An inequality which is true for every value of the variable is called an identity inequality. 
For example, the inequality a2 ≥ 0 is true for every value of a.

Identity Function: A function in which the domain values doesn't change at all. f (x) = x is an identity function.

Identity Matrix: Its a square matrix with 1 for each element on the main diagonal and 0

example of Identity

for all other elements are identity matrices of dimension 2 × 2 and 3 × 3 respectively. The product of n × n matrix and the identity matrix gives back the n × n matrix.

Video Examples: Algebraic expressions and identities
 

Solved Example on Identity

Ques: Solve the equation 5(x + 2) = 5x + 10 and determine whether it has one solution, no solution, or is an identity. 

Choices:

A. an identity 
B. one solution 
C. not enough information given 
D. no solution 
Correct Answer: A

Solution:

Step 1: 5(x + 2) = 5x + 10 [Given equation.] 
Step 2: 5x + 10 = 5x + 10 [Multiply 5 to remove the parenthesis.]
Step 3: 5x + 10 - 5x = 5x + 10 - 5x [Subtract 5x from each side.] 
Step 4: 10 = 10 [Combine like terms.]
Step 5: 10 = 10 is always true. So, the given equation is an identity.

Quick Summary

  • Identity equations are true for every value of the variable.
  • Identity inequalities are true for every value of the variable.
  • An identity function returns the input value.
  • An identity matrix multiplied by another matrix returns the original matrix.
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🍎 Teacher Insights

Emphasize the difference between identities and conditional equations. Use substitution to verify that an equation holds true for a variety of values.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Equation
  • Variable
  • Function
  • Matrix

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: Which of the following is an identity?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can you determine if an equation is an identity?
A: Simplify both sides of the equation. If they are identical, it's an identity.

Q: What is the significance of the identity matrix?
A: It acts as the multiplicative identity in matrix algebra, similar to how 1 functions in scalar multiplication.

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