What is a conditional equation?

A conditional equation is an algebraic equation in which one expression is equal to another expression, but the equality holds true only under certain conditions. These conditions may involve the values of the variables in the equation, and if those conditions are not met, the equation may not hold true.

In a conditional equation, the variables are typically restricted to specific values or ranges for the equation to be valid. For example, the equation x + y = 10 is a conditional equation if it is specified that x must be less than 5.

Conditional equations are often used in real-world applications where certain constraints or limitations are present. They are used to model relationships between variables that are contingent on specific conditions being met.

Solving a conditional equation involves identifying the conditions under which the equation holds true and finding the values of the variables that satisfy those conditions. This may require algebraic manipulation or substitution to simplify the equation and determine the correct values of the variables.