Dr. Algebra

Constants occur in one of two forms and are usually denoted by either a letter or symbol.  

A.  The first form is used to reference a some property or unchanging value such as Avagadro’s number or the speed of light. 

Examples:

• • Avagadro’s number:  [katex]6.02 \cdot 10^{23}[/katex]
  • The Speed of Light: [katex]C=3 \cdot 10^{9}[/katex]

The second type of constant, and that one that is used often in algebra simply refers to a non-variable value.  This type of constant remains unchanged within the context of a problem or equation and is unaffected by changes in variables.

Examples of the second type:

• Base elevation:  B= 100 ft above sea level