Why Option B is the Best Choice

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 54 views

Introduction

Solving systems of equations is a fundamental concept in mathematics, and it's essential to understand the best approach when dealing with such problems. In this article, we'll explore the best first step when solving the system of equations:

\begin{align*} y &= 7x + 3 \\ y &= 9x \end{align*}

Understanding the Problem

The given system of equations consists of two linear equations with two variables, x and y. The first equation is $y = 7x + 3$ , and the second equation is $y = 9x$ . Our goal is to find the values of x and y that satisfy both equations simultaneously.

Analyzing the Options

Let's analyze the two options provided:

Option A: Multiply the First Equation by -7

If we multiply the first equation by -7, we get:

-7y = -49x - 21

This equation is now in the form of $-7y = -49x - 21$ , which is equivalent to $y = \frac{-49x - 21}{-7}$ .

Option B: Substitute $9x$ for $y$ in the First Equation

If we substitute $9x$ for $y$ in the first equation, we get:

9x = 7x + 3

This equation is now in the form of $9x = 7x + 3$ , which is a simple linear equation.

Choosing the Best Option

Based on the analysis, we can see that Option B is the best first step when solving the system of equations. By substituting $9x$ for $y$ in the first equation, we get a simple linear equation that can be easily solved.

Why Option B is the Best Choice

Option B is the best choice because it eliminates the variable y and allows us to solve for x directly. This approach is more efficient and easier to understand than Option A, which involves multiplying the first equation by -7.

Solving the System of Equations

Now that we have chosen the best option, let's solve the system of equations using Option B.

9x = 7x + 3

Subtracting $7x$ from both sides, we get:

2x = 3

Dividing both sides by 2, we get:

x = \frac{3}{2}

Now that we have found the value of x, we can substitute it into one of the original equations to find the value of y.

Finding the Value of y

Substituting $x = \frac{3}{2}$ into the second equation, we get:

y = 9\left(\frac{3}{2}\right)

Simplifying, we get:

y = \frac{27}{2}

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best first step when solving the system of equations is to substitute $9x$ for $y$ in the first equation. This approach eliminates the variable y and allows us to solve for x directly. By following this approach, we can easily solve the system of equations and find the values of x and y.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving systems of equations, it's essential to avoid common mistakes such as:

Not checking for extraneous solutions: Make sure to check if the solution satisfies both equations.
Not using the correct method: Choose the best method for solving the system of equations, such as substitution or elimination.
Not simplifying the equations: Simplify the equations to make it easier to solve.

Real-World Applications

Solving systems of equations has numerous real-world applications, such as:

Physics and engineering: Solving systems of equations is essential in physics and engineering to model real-world problems.
Economics: Solving systems of equations is used in economics to model economic systems and make predictions.
Computer science: Solving systems of equations is used in computer science to solve problems in machine learning and data analysis.

Final Thoughts

Q: What is a system of equations?

A: A system of equations is a set of two or more equations that contain two or more variables. The goal is to find the values of the variables that satisfy all the equations simultaneously.

Q: What are the different methods for solving systems of equations?

A: There are two main methods for solving systems of equations:

Substitution method: This method involves substituting one equation into the other equation to eliminate one of the variables.
Elimination method: This method involves adding or subtracting the equations to eliminate one of the variables.

Q: What is the substitution method?

A: The substitution method involves substituting one equation into the other equation to eliminate one of the variables. For example, if we have the equations:

\begin{align*} y &= 7x + 3 \\ y &= 9x \end{align*}

We can substitute $9x$ for $y$ in the first equation to get:

9x = 7x + 3

Q: What is the elimination method?

A: The elimination method involves adding or subtracting the equations to eliminate one of the variables. For example, if we have the equations:

\begin{align*} y &= 7x + 3 \\ y &= 9x \end{align*}

We can subtract the first equation from the second equation to get:

2x = 6

Q: How do I choose between the substitution and elimination methods?

A: The choice between the substitution and elimination methods depends on the specific equations and the variables involved. If the equations are simple and easy to work with, the substitution method may be the best choice. If the equations are more complex, the elimination method may be more effective.

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

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

Not checking for extraneous solutions: Make sure to check if the solution satisfies both equations.
Not using the correct method: Choose the best method for solving the system of equations, such as substitution or elimination.
Not simplifying the equations: Simplify the equations to make it easier to solve.

Q: How do I check for extraneous solutions?

A: To check for extraneous solutions, substitute the solution back into both equations and make sure it satisfies both equations. If the solution does not satisfy both equations, it is an extraneous solution and should be discarded.

Q: What are some real-world applications of solving systems of equations?

A: Solving systems of equations has numerous real-world applications, such as:

Physics and engineering: Solving systems of equations is essential in physics and engineering to model real-world problems.
Economics: Solving systems of equations is used in economics to model economic systems and make predictions.
Computer science: Solving systems of equations is used in computer science to solve problems in machine learning and data analysis.

Q: Can I use technology to solve systems of equations?

A: Yes, you can use technology to solve systems of equations. Many graphing calculators and computer algebra systems can solve systems of equations quickly and easily.

Q: What are some tips for solving systems of equations?

A: Some tips for solving systems of equations include:

Read the equations carefully: Make sure to read the equations carefully and understand what is being asked.
Choose the best method: Choose the best method for solving the system of equations, such as substitution or elimination.
Simplify the equations: Simplify the equations to make it easier to solve.
Check for extraneous solutions: Make sure to check if the solution satisfies both equations.