Method for Determining Solutions

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 61 views

Introduction

In mathematics, a system of linear equations is a set of two or more linear equations that are solved simultaneously to find the values of the variables. In this article, we will focus on determining if each ordered pair is a solution to the system of equations given. We will use the following system of equations as an example:

{ \begin{align*} 3x + 2y &= -2 \\ x - 2y &= -6 \end{align*} \}

Method for Determining Solutions

To determine if an ordered pair is a solution to the system of equations, we need to substitute the values of the ordered pair into each equation and check if the equation is true. If the equation is true, then the ordered pair is a solution to the system of equations.

Part a: Determining if (2, 2) is a Solution

To determine if (2, 2) is a solution to the system of equations, we need to substitute x = 2 and y = 2 into each equation.

Substituting (2, 2) into the First Equation

Substituting x = 2 and y = 2 into the first equation, we get:

$3(2) + 2(2) = -2$

Expanding and simplifying the equation, we get:

$6 + 4 = -2$

Combine like terms:

$10 = -2$

This equation is not true, so (2, 2) is not a solution to the first equation.

Substituting (2, 2) into the Second Equation

Substituting x = 2 and y = 2 into the second equation, we get:

$2 - 2(2) = -6$

Expanding and simplifying the equation, we get:

$2 - 4 = -6$

Combine like terms:

$-2 = -6$

This equation is not true, so (2, 2) is not a solution to the second equation.

Conclusion

Since (2, 2) is not a solution to either equation, it is not a solution to the system of equations.

Part b: Determining if (-2, 2) is a Solution

To determine if (-2, 2) is a solution to the system of equations, we need to substitute x = -2 and y = 2 into each equation.

Substituting (-2, 2) into the First Equation

Substituting x = -2 and y = 2 into the first equation, we get:

$3(-2) + 2(2) = -2$

Expanding and simplifying the equation, we get:

$-6 + 4 = -2$

Combine like terms:

$-2 = -2$

This equation is true, so (-2, 2) is a solution to the first equation.

Substituting (-2, 2) into the Second Equation

Substituting x = -2 and y = 2 into the second equation, we get:

$-2 - 2(2) = -6$

Expanding and simplifying the equation, we get:

$-2 - 4 = -6$

Combine like terms:

$-6 = -6$

This equation is true, so (-2, 2) is a solution to the second equation.

Conclusion

Since (-2, 2) is a solution to both equations, it is a solution to the system of equations.

Conclusion

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed how to determine if an ordered pair is a solution to a system of linear equations. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about solving systems of linear equations.

Q: What is a system of linear equations?

A system of linear equations is a set of two or more linear equations that are solved simultaneously to find the values of the variables.

Q: How do I determine if an ordered pair is a solution to a system of linear equations?

To determine if an ordered pair is a solution to a system of linear equations, you need to substitute the values of the ordered pair into each equation and check if the equation is true. If the equation is true, then the ordered pair is a solution to the system of equations.

Q: What is the difference between a solution and a point of intersection?

A solution to a system of linear equations is an ordered pair that satisfies both equations. A point of intersection is the point where two lines intersect, but it may not be a solution to the system of equations.

Q: How do I solve a system of linear equations?

There are several methods for solving a system of linear equations, including:

Substitution Method: Substitute one equation into the other equation to solve for one variable.
Elimination Method: Add or subtract the equations to eliminate one variable.
Graphing Method: Graph the equations on a coordinate plane and find the point of intersection.

Q: What is the importance of solving systems of linear equations?

Solving systems of linear equations is important in many real-world applications, such as:

Physics: To solve problems involving motion, forces, and energies.
Engineering: To design and optimize systems, such as bridges, buildings, and electronic circuits.
Economics: To model and analyze economic systems, such as supply and demand.

Q: Can I use a calculator to solve systems of linear equations?

Yes, you can use a calculator to solve systems of linear equations. Many calculators have built-in functions for solving systems of linear equations, such as the "Solve" function.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving systems of linear equations?

Some common mistakes to avoid when solving systems of linear equations include:

Not checking if the equations are linear: Make sure the equations are linear before trying to solve them.
Not checking if the equations are consistent: Make sure the equations are consistent before trying to solve them.
Not using the correct method: Choose the correct method for solving the system of equations.

Conclusion

In this article, we answered some frequently asked questions about solving systems of linear equations. We hope this article has been helpful in clarifying some of the concepts and methods involved in solving systems of linear equations.