Question

What is the difference between a linear vs. non-linear equations?

Answer 1

The linear equation can only have variables and numbers and the variables must only be raised to the first power. The variables must not be multipliedor divided. There must not be any other functions.

Explanation:

Examples:

These equations are linear:

1) `x+y+z-8=0`
2) `3x-4=0`
3) `sqrt(2)t-0.6v=-sqrt(3)` (coefficients can be irrational)
4) `a/5-c/3=7/9`

These are not linear:

1) x^2+3y=5 (`x` is in the 2nd power)
) `a+5sinb=0` (sin is not allowed in linear function)
2) `2^x+6^y=0` (variables must not be in the exponents)
3) `2x+3y-xy=0` (the multiplication of variables is not allowed)
4) `a/b+6a-v=0` (variables cannot be in the denominator)