Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Identity
An identity is an equation that holds true for all values of the variable involved. For example, the equation 2(x + 1) = 2x + 2 is an identity because it simplifies to a true statement regardless of the value of x. Identifying an identity means recognizing that both sides of the equation are equivalent for every possible input.
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Conditional Equation
A conditional equation is an equation that is true only for specific values of the variable. For instance, the equation x + 2 = 5 is conditional because it is only true when x equals 3. Solving a conditional equation typically yields a finite set of solutions, which can be expressed as a solution set.
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Contradiction
A contradiction is an equation that has no solutions, meaning there are no values of the variable that can satisfy the equation. An example is the equation x + 1 = x, which simplifies to 1 = 0, a false statement. Recognizing a contradiction is crucial as it indicates that the equation cannot be true under any circumstances.
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