Question

: A variable needs to be eliminated to solve the system of equations below. Choose the correct first step.

x + 2y = -22
-x - y = 16
A. Add to eliminate y.
B. Add to eliminate x.
C. Subtract to eliminate x.
D. Subtract to eliminate y.

Answer 1

The first step in solving the system of equations by elimination should be to add the two given equations, which will eliminate variable x and directly give the value of y.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first step to eliminate a variable in the system of equations given would be to add the two equations together. You have the following equations:

• x + 2y = -22
• -x - y = 16

If you add them as they are, you'll get:

• (x - x) + (2y - y) = -22 + 16
• 0 + y = -6

This eliminates the x-variable and gives you the value of y directly. Hence, the correct option is A. Add to eliminate y.