Teaching algebra can be made significantly more interactive and engaging with the help of technology. The iPad, with its portability and touch interface, is an excellent tool for educators looking to bring algebra to life for their students. Here’s a look at 15 free iPad apps that can help students understand algebraic concepts through fun and innovative ways.

1. GeoGebra Classic – An all-in-one solution for algebra, geometry, statistics, and calculus. GeoGebra offers dynamic graphing capabilities and multiple representations of objects that are tied to algebraic data in real-time.

2. Photomath – Simply point your iPad camera at a printed math problem, and Photomath will not only give you the answer but also provide step-by-step explanations.

3. Khan Academy – With a massive library of lessons covering all aspects of algebra, Khan Academy is a treasure trove of learning material with interactive exercises.

4. Desmos Graphing Calculator – A powerful graphing calculator that lets students plot functions, create tables, animate graphs, and much more.

5. CK-12 – Access a vast collection of algebra resources including textbooks, quizzes, and interactive learning objects on the CK-12 app.

6. DragonBox Algebra 5+ – Designed for younger students, this app turns learning algebra into a game that leads them through the basic concepts intuitively without even realizing they’re doing math.

7. Algebra Touch – A hands-on approach to learning algebra where students can drag to rearrange and tap to simplify expressions and solve equations.

8. Mathway – While offering paid features, Mathway’s basic functionality allows students to enter an equation and see the step-by-step solution for helping with homework or studying.

9. Quick Graph – A powerful, high-quality graphing calculator that’s capable of displaying explicit and implicit equations as well as inequalities in both 2D and 3D.

10. Cymath – Type in any algebra problem to receive step-by-step instructions on how to solve it, ideal for practicing various types of equations.’

11. Microsoft Math Solver –Similar toPhotomath and Cymath; you can write out or scan an equation, and Microsoft Math Solver will explain how to solve it in a step-by-step manner.

12. Wolfram Alpha – Known as a ‘computational knowledge engine,’ Wolfram Alpha can help students explore algebraic concepts by inputting queries directly.

13. Brainscape’s Smart Flashcards – Supplemental study aid that uses spaced repetition to help reinforce algebraic concepts over time.

14. iCrosss – This app allows students to explore three-dimensional polyhedra geometry which is closely related to algebraic functions.

15. Mathpix Snip – Snap pictures of handwritten or printed algebra problems for instant solutions and explanations—great for checking work or understanding processes better.

Algebra doesn’t have to be dry or daunting; these free iPad apps offer diverse ways of engaging with this fundamental branch of mathematics. These resources can play pivotal roles in facilitating understanding and making abstract concepts concrete – all from the convenience of your tablet.