Question

When solving the following system of equations, which variable would be the easiest to solve for?

(230 + 3y = 17
4x+y=19
1. the x in the second equation
2. The y in the first equation
3. the x in the first equation
4. the y in the second equation

Answer 1

The easiest variable to solve for in the given system of equations is the y in the second equation, because it can be isolated with a simple subtraction, making it straightforward and efficient to solve.

Step-by-step explanation:

When solving the system of equations given, option 4, solving for the y in the second equation, is the easiest variable to solve for. This is because the second equation, 4x + y = 19, can be rearranged to y = 19 - 4x, which shows y in terms of x directly and involves only one quick subtraction step. Thus, you can quickly find the value of y and then use it to find x in either equation.

To illustrate:

1. Start with the second equation: 4x + y = 19.
2. Rearrange it to solve for y: y = 19 - 4x.
3. Study the first equation: 230 + 3y = 17. It is not as straightforward to isolate y in this equation because it would first require moving the constant to the other side and then dividing by 3, which is more complex than a simple subtraction.

Therefore, starting with solving for y in the second equation is more efficient.