Thinking Mathematically (6th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321867327
ISBN 13: 978-0-32186-732-2

Chapter 7 - Algebra: Graphs, Functions, and Linear Systems - 7.3 Systems of Linear Equations in Two Variables - Exercise Set 7.3 - Page 446: 71

Answer

The process of isolating a variable when it’s not so, proves to be an unusual task. Addition method would be easier to use in this case to solve the system of linear equations.

Work Step by Step

A system of linear equations can be solved using the addition method. This involves isolating a variable and then solving an equation consisting of only one variable. This is done by using the addition of two equations to eliminate a variable. A system of linear equations can also be solved using the substitution method. This method involves solving either of one equation for one variable in terms of another variable. This expression is then substituted into the other equation that results in the equation in one variable. This equation is then solved for one variable that is then back substituted in first equation to give the value for another variable. Substitution method proves to be an easy method if one of the equations has an isolated variable. The process of isolating a variable when it’s not so, proves to be an unusual task. Addition method would be easier to use in this case to solve the system of linear equations.
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