Question

5x − 6y = –20
x − 2y = –8

Answer 1

Explanation:

Isolate the x-variable in the second equation:

• ⇒ x − 2y = –8
• ⇒ x = –8 + 2y

Now, substitute the expression equivalent to x into the first equation:

• ⇒ 5(-8 + 2y) − 6y = –20

Finally, simplify to find y:

• ⇒ -40 + 10y − 6y = –20
• ⇒ 10y − 6y = –20 + 40
• ⇒ 4y = 20
• ⇒ y = 5

Lastly, substitute the value of y into any equation to find x:

• ⇒ x − 2(5) = –8
• ⇒ x − 10 = –8
• ⇒ x = –8 + 10 = 2

Therefore, the value of x and y are 2 and 5 respectively.

Answer 2

x = 2

y = 5

Explanation:

5x − 6y = –20

x − 2y = –8

Time the second equation by -5

5x - 6y = -20

-5x + 10y = 40

4y = 20

y = 5

Now put 9.5 in for y and solve for x

x − 2(5) = –8

x - 10 = -8

x = 2