Math analysis vs precalculus: all you need to know about

is there a difference between math analysis and precalculus, this is what we’re going to discover in this post.

The difference between math analysis and precalculus

Math Analysis is the same as precalculus, math analysis is a combination of Algebra 2 and Calculus 1 courses. In other words, it covers all the algebra 2 and calculus 1 course to prepare students for studying path colleges, like calculus 2, calculus 3, and linear algebra.

Some schools have precalculus and math analysis as separate courses. But in all cases, students in math analysis should study theses following subjects:

  • Matrices
  • Functions
  • Trigonometry
  • Conic Sections
  • Polar Coordinates and Graphs
  • Vectors
  • Parametric Equations
  • Sequences and Series
  • Limits
  • Differentiation

What do students study in precalculus or math analysis?

in precalculus or math analysis course students will study thesis 9 principal subjects, which we will mention below.

1 – Trigonometry

For people who want to know that there is a fundamental distinction between math analysis and precalculus, they should know that trigonometry is included in precalculus. But also that trigonometry is encompassed by math analysis courses. 

Because, in actuality, math analysis and precalculus are one and the same. In pre-calculus trigonometry classes, you’ll be focusing on trigonometry functions including:

  • Sin
  • Cousins
  • Tangents
  • Cotangents

That is to say, all the rules that calculate the angles of triangles. Also, you will learn how to implement angles and trigonometric functions in circles as you see in the image below.

this part might be a little confusing at the beginning, but once you understand the concept things run smoothly. In addition, representing triangles in a circle is an excellent way to simplify and minimize memorizing a ton of trigonometry rules.

2 – Complex numbers

Complex numbers are one of the most interesting subjects in geometry, it is so useful especially if you want to major in engineering classes like electricla engineering or physics.

When it comes to scientific applications, complex numbers are used in many engineering disciplines, such as signal processing, control theory, electromagnetism, fluid dynamics, quantum mechanics, cartography, and vibration analysis.

normally a complex number is written in this form.

z = x+iy

For instance, electrical engineers use imaginary numbers to calculate resistance or impedance to an electrical circuit. to design adequately their electrical circuits they typically use complex numbers to make a lot of operations on them.

complex numbers precalculus

3 – functions

functions are the more interesting subjects students study in math analysis or precalculus courses. it is a subject where students discover the whole different subjects of fractions like in this image below:

in this fractions subject and exactly in precalculus you will different types of functions especially:

  • Exponential and logarithmic
  • Polynomial functions
  • Exponential functions
  • Domain, range, intercepts,
  • Rational Functions
  • trigonometry functions
  •  

5 – Vectors

 Vectors play an important role in math, as they are challenging in trigonometry. In pre-calculus and math analysis classes students study vectors and scalars. to provide a simple approximation in precalculus and math analysis, you will study and learn many vector operations, such as how you can add vectors and subtract them.

vectors are very important in college linear algebra, they will facilitate your job with college algebra courses and also in calculus.

6 – Matrices

In mathematics, matrices are quite useful for real-world applications like electricity and quantum mechanics, etc. They are also extremely important as a base for learning linear algebra, known as one of the most difficult algebra math topics in school.

normally matrices are written in the form below.

If you wish to be a good mathematician, it’s crucial that you understand matrices, especially in instances where you are a student of engineering and economics.

7 – Probability and combinatorics

probability and combinatory is an interesting subject for students who want to major in business or economics major. Probability and combinations are subjects that study the odds.

for example:

  • determine the odds of getting ahead when you flip a coin
  • determine the odds of succeeding in a lottery

In this topic, the principal thing is to know how to transform a subject into data or numbers, meaning to succeed in this subject you need to comprehend the subject well prior to determining the solution. In other words, having the capacity to know necessary rules thoroughly and apply them to finally come up with favorable predictions.

8 – Series and sequences

In the precalculus course, you will cover certain kinds of series, such as geometric and numerical series, which are closely connected to the banking industry.

 Within this subject, you will learn also, the binomial theorem that requires good attention to digest. However, its difficulties should not be regarded as a large obstacle; when you fully dedicate yourself to doing so, it will not be an issue.

9 – Limits and continuity

You are likely to discover that limit is a very important subject that you’ll find out or study with precalculus math analysis. Because precalculus is important for a wide range of subjects.

One of the reasons that make students study pre-calculus or math analysis is to learn limits and continuity. As a result to ensure a smooth transition to advanced math subjects like calculus 2, calculus 3, and linear algebra.

limits are the base that will allow you to study calculus subjects, so you would focus a lot on these subjects especially if you want to major in engineering fields

A limit function is a mathematical tool used to calculate the value of a function at a certain point. This value is important because it can help us understand how the function behaves as we approach that point. In limits subjects, you will be studying the following subjects.

  • Defining limits and using limit notation
  • Estimating limit values from graphs
  • Estimating limit values from tables
  • Determining limits using algebraic properties of limits
  • Determining limits using algebraic properties of limits
  • direct substitution
  • Determining limits using algebraic manipulation
  • Selecting procedures for determining limits

Conclusion

Studying math analysis or precalculus remains the same, the most interesting thing is to understand and build solid basics to prevent falling in problems in college math courses.

you could find the full fee course of precalculus if you want to discover more details about each subject.

yassin.ajanif

Yassin ajanif is a physics graduate and electromechanical engineer width more than 5 years in the field. My goal and my team are to share our experience to help you succeed in your career as a stem major. we talk about all tips, problems, and struggle STEM students face in their career and how to overcome them.