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24 votes
24 votes
Solve the system of equations -3x+7y=-18 and 4x-4y=8 by combining the equations

User Mpaf
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1 Answer

13 votes
13 votes

Answer:

(-4, -3)

Explanation:

Using elimination by addition and subtraction works best here.

Suppose we decide to eliminate x temporarily. To do this, we multipy the first row by 4, obtaining

-12x + 28y = -72

4x - 4y = 8

Next, multiply the second row by 3, obtaining the "equivalent system"

-12x + 28y = -72

12x - 12y = 24

Combining these equations, column by column, we get:

16y = -48. So y = -3.

Now let's find x. Substitute -3 for y in the second equation:

4x - 4(-3) = 8, or

4x + 12 = 8, or

4x = 8 - 12 = -4. This tells us that x = -4.

The solution is thus (-4, -3).

User Hyojin
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