Chapter 1 Fundamentals

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Precalculus builds on the algebraic skills developed in earlier mathematics courses. This chapter strengthens those foundations and introduces the language, notation, and problem-solving habits used throughout the book. You will work with real numbers, exponents, radicals, algebraic and rational expressions, equations, and inequalities. You will also use coordinates, graphs, lines, and variation to represent relationships between quantities. Modeling activities will connect algebra to practical situations, while Desmos will help you examine equations and inequalities graphically. By the end of the chapter, you should be more confident manipulating expressions, solving problems, interpreting results, and choosing appropriate algebraic or graphical methods.