linear equation

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. a first-order equation involving two variables: its graph is a straight line in the Cartesian coordinate system.

2. any equation such that the sum of two solutions is a solution, and a constant multiple of a solution is a solution.

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linear equation British  

noun

1. a polynomial equation of the first degree, such as x + y = 7

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linear equation Scientific  

1. An algebraic equation, such as y = 4 x + 3, in which the variables are of the first degree (that is, raised only to the first power). The graph of such an equation is a straight line.

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Etymology

Origin of linear equation

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Despite this complexity, a close approximation of its motion can be captured with a simple linear equation that uses only the launch speed and angle.

From Science Daily

I rejoiced in teaching young people about linear equations and graphs.

From Literature

Some computations could require a computer to solve a half-billion linear equations, he says.

From Science Magazine

“I’m supposed to go into linear equations next fall. How’s that going to work?” said Parks.

From Los Angeles Times

Emphasizing problem-based learning, the course covers topics students need in sophomore engineering classes, including linear equations, quadratic equations, 2-D vectors and complex numbers.

From Scientific American