Question

Identify a possible first step using the elimination method to solve the system and then find the solution to the system.

12x – 3y = 6
2x – y = 2
A) multiply second equation by 6, solution (2,0)
B) multiply second equation by 6, solution (-2,0)
C) multiply second equation by -6, solution (0,2)
D) multiply second equation by -6, solution (0,-2)

Answer 1

The correct answer is D

Answer 2

D) multiply second equation by -6, solution (0,-2)

Explanation:

This pair of linear equations may be solved simultaneously by using the elimination method. This will involve ensuring that the coefficient of one of the unknown variables is the same in both equations.

As such, in the given set of equations

12x – 3y = 6

2x – y = 2

We may make the coefficients of x the same by multiplying the second by 6 or the coefficient of y by multiplying the second by 3. Using the first

12x – 3y = 6

12x – 6y = 12

equation 1 - equation 2

3y = -6

y = -2

2x + 2 = 2

x = 0