Edexcel GCSE Mathematics key terms

The process of rewriting a quadratic expression in the equivalent form $a(x+p)^2+q$.

The horizontal and vertical parts of a vector, written as the top and bottom entries respectively in a two-dimensional column vector.

A function formed by applying one function and then applying another function to its output.

An integer greater than 1 that is not prime because it has more than two positive factors.

A two-dimensional shape formed from two or more simpler shapes.

A three-dimensional solid formed by joining two or more simpler solids, or by removing one solid from another.

Interest calculated on the current balance, including any interest already added in earlier periods.

A measure formed by combining two or more other measures, usually by division; examples include speed, density and pressure.

A measurement formed by combining two or more different units, usually by multiplication or division, such as kilometres per hour or grams per cubic centimetre.

The amount of one component in a stated amount of a mixture or solution.

The probability of an event when it is known that another event has occurred.

Notation meaning “the probability of event A given event B”.

A solid with a circular base and a curved surface that narrows to one apex.

A set of matching measurements sufficient to establish that two triangles are congruent.

A shape with exactly the same size and shape as another, so that one can fit exactly over the other.

Figures that have exactly the same shape and size, although their position or orientation may differ.

A proposed result suggested by a pattern or diagram but not yet proved.

One of a pair of expressions, such as $a+\sqrt b$ and $a-\sqrt b$, which differ only in the sign between their terms.

Two binomial expressions with the same terms but opposite signs between them, such as $3+\sqrt{2}$ and $3-\sqrt{2}$.

The extent to which data values are close together. A smaller measure of spread indicates greater consistency.

A term whose value does not depend on a variable, such as $7$ in $2x+7$.

The fixed multiplier connecting two directly proportional quantities in an equation such as $y=kx$.

Continuous data can take any value within a range, such as time or mass.

The behaviour in which successive values approach a fixed value.

A number used to multiply a measurement when changing from one unit to another.

An ordered pair $(x,y)$ giving a point's horizontal and vertical positions relative to the origin.

An association between two variables, shown by a pattern in their paired values.

Angles in the same relative position where a transversal crosses two parallel lines; they are equal.