Introductory & Intermediate Algebra for College Students (3rd Edition)

Designed for freshmen, Introductory & Intermediate Algebra for College Students (3rd Edition) – ISBN 9780136028956 by Robert F. Blitzer is suitable for preparatory algebra courses. This surprisingly engaging book allows students to see applications of numbers in everyday life and is designed to help students pass basic math courses. Variables, real numbers, and mathematical models, linear equations and inequalities in one variable, linear equations in two variables, systems of linear equations, exponents and polynomials, and factoring polynomials are covered. Rational expressions, the basics of functions, inequalities and problem solving, radicals, radical functions, and rational exponents, quadratic equations and functions, and exponential and logarithmic functions are also explained in great detail. In the chapters on conic sections and systems of nonlinear equations, Blitzer discusses the circle, ellipse, and hyperbola plus the parabola and how to identify conic sections, plus systems of nonlinear equations in two variables. The last part of the book is dedicated to sequences, series, and the binomial theorem, tackling sequences and summation notation, arithmetic sequences, and geometric sequences and series. Topics such as mean, median, and mode, matrix solutions to systems of linear equations, determinants and Cramer's rule, and selected proofs are located at the appendices. Introductory & Intermediate Algebra for College Students (3rd Edition) provides summaries at the end of each chapter. Students can sharpen their mathematical and solving skills with the review exercises, tests, and suggested group projects. This textbook is favored by many instructors for its manageable pacing, solid information and examples, and helpful study aids.