【常用数学公式的英语表述】Mathematics is a universal language, and understanding how to express mathematical formulas in English is essential for students, researchers, and professionals working in scientific or technical fields. Whether you are studying algebra, calculus, geometry, or statistics, knowing the correct English terminology can help you communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.
Below is a list of some commonly used mathematical formulas, along with their English expressions. These are presented in a way that is easy to understand and suitable for academic or professional settings.
1. Linear Equation (Linear Function)
In English, a linear equation is often referred to as:
> "y equals m x plus b"
Where:
- y is the dependent variable
- m is the slope
- x is the independent variable
- b is the y-intercept
This formula is widely used in algebra and represents a straight line on a graph.
2. Quadratic Formula
The quadratic formula is used to solve equations of the form:
> "a x squared plus b x plus c equals zero"
The solution is given by:
> "x equals negative b plus or minus the square root of b squared minus four a c, all over two a"
This is written as:
$$
x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}
$$
It is one of the most important formulas in algebra.
3. Pythagorean Theorem
This fundamental theorem in geometry states:
> "The square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides"
Or, in formula form:
> "a squared plus b squared equals c squared"
$$
a^2 + b^2 = c^2
$$
This is used to find the length of a side in a right-angled triangle.
4. Area of a Circle
The area of a circle is expressed as:
> "A equals pi r squared"
$$
A = \pi r^2
$$
Where:
- A is the area
- r is the radius
- π (pi) is approximately 3.14159
This formula is essential in geometry and trigonometry.
5. Volume of a Sphere
The volume of a sphere is given by:
> "V equals four-thirds pi r cubed"
$$
V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3
$$
This is used in physics and engineering to calculate the space occupied by a spherical object.
6. Distance Formula
To find the distance between two points in a coordinate plane, we use:
> "The distance is equal to the square root of the sum of the squares of the differences in the coordinates"
In formula form:
$$
d = \sqrt{(x_2 - x_1)^2 + (y_2 - y_1)^2}
$$
This is a key concept in coordinate geometry.
7. Slope of a Line
The slope of a line passing through two points is calculated as:
> "Slope equals change in y over change in x"
$$
m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}
$$
This helps determine how steep a line is.
8. Law of Cosines
Used in triangles that are not right-angled, the Law of Cosines is:
> "c squared equals a squared plus b squared minus two a b cosine theta"
$$
c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab\cos(\theta)
$$
This generalizes the Pythagorean theorem to any triangle.
9. Exponential Growth Formula
This formula is used to model growth over time:
> "y equals a times e raised to the power of k t"
$$
y = ae^{kt}
$$
Where:
- a is the initial amount
- k is the growth rate
- t is time
It is commonly used in biology, finance, and economics.
10. Basic Derivative Rule
For example, the derivative of x^n is:
> "The derivative of x to the n is n times x to the n minus one"
$$
\frac{d}{dx}(x^n) = nx^{n-1}
$$
This is a fundamental rule in calculus.
Conclusion
Understanding how to express mathematical formulas in English is crucial for clear communication, especially in international academic and professional environments. Whether you're writing a paper, preparing a presentation, or collaborating with others, being able to describe these formulas accurately will enhance your ability to share and explain complex ideas.
By mastering these expressions, you'll be better equipped to engage with the global mathematical community and contribute to ongoing discussions in science, technology, and beyond.