Algebra

Axioms of Algebra

An Axiom is a mathematical statement that is assumed to be true, i.e. they are not derived. There are five basic axioms of algebra. The axioms are the reflexive axiom, symmetric axiom, transitive axiom, additive axiom and multiplicative axiom.

1. Reflexive Axiom: A number is equal to itelf. (e.g a = a). This is the first axiom of equality. It follows Euclid's Common Notion One: "Things equal to the same thing are equal to each other."
2. Symmetric Axiom: Numbers are symmetric around the equals sign. If a = b then b = a. This is the second axiom of equality It follows Euclid's Common Notion One: "Things equal to the same thing are equal to each other."
3. Transitive Axiom: If a = b and b = c then a = c. This is the third axiom of equality. It follows Euclid's Common Notion One: "Things equal to the same thing are equal to each other."
4. Additive Axiom: If a = b and c = d then a + c = b + d. If two quantities are equal and an equal amount is added to each, they are still equal.
5. Multiplicative Axiom: If a=b and c = d then ac = bd. Since multiplication is just repeated addition, the multiplicative axiom follows from the additive axiom.