Grade 9

Grade 9Linear Equations in Two Variables


Algebraic Method


The algebraic method is one of the fundamental techniques used to solve linear equations in two variables. Understanding this method is important for solving problems where two different conditions need to be satisfied simultaneously, often represented as two linear equations. In this document, we will explore the concept, step-by-step procedures, examples, and various aspects of the algebraic method.

Introduction to linear equations in two variables

A linear equation in two variables is an equation that can be written in the following form:

ax + by = c

where x and y are variables, and a, b and c are constants. The solution to these equations is a set of values of x and y that makes the equation true.

What is the algebraic method?

The algebraic method involves using algebra techniques to eliminate one variable, allowing you to solve for the other. There are mainly two approaches within the algebraic method:

  1. Replacement method
  2. Elimination method

1. Substitution method

The substitution method involves solving one of the equations for a single variable and substituting this expression into the other equation. This turns the system of equations into a single equation in one variable. Let's look at the steps:

  1. Solve an equation for one of the following variables:

    Pick any equation and solve for one variable in terms of the other. For example, if you have this equation:

    x + 2y = 5

    You can solve for x like this:

    x = 5 - 2y
  2. Substitute this expression into the other equation:

    Substitute the expression for the variable found in the first step into the second equation. Continuing our example, if the second equation is:

    3x - y = 4

    Substitute x = 5 - 2y in the equation:

    3(5 - 2y) - y = 4
  3. Solve the resulting single-variable equation:

    Simplify and solve for the remaining variable:

    15 - 6y - y = 4
    15 - 7y = 4
    -7y = 4 - 15
    -7y = -11
    y = 11/7
  4. Substitute again to find the other variables:

    Substitute the value of y into the expression obtained in Step 1 to find x :

    x = 5 - 2(11/7)

    Simplifying this, you get:

    x = 5 - 22/7
    x = 35/7 - 22/7
    x = 13/7

    Thus, the solution is (13/7, 11/7).

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2. Elimination method

The elimination method involves aligning two linear equations in such a way that adding or subtracting them eliminates one of the variables. This allows you to solve the remaining single-variable equation. The basic steps for this method include:

  1. Align the equations:

    Write both equations in standard form and try to align them to focus on eliminating one variable. Let's consider:

    2x + 3y = 8
    4x - 9y = -2
  2. Equalize the coefficients of one variable:

    Multiply one or both equations by constants to make the coefficients of a variable equal (or opposite). For example, multiply the first equation by 2:

    4x + 6y = 16

    Now, subtract the second equation from this:

    (4x + 6y) - (4x - 9y) = (16) - (-2)
  3. Eliminate one variable and solve for the other:

    Simplify the result:

    4x + 6y - 4x + 9y = 16 + 2
    15y = 18
    y = 18/15
    y = 6/5
  4. Substitute again to find the other variables:

    Substitute the value of y into one of the original equations. Let's choose the first equation:

    2x + 3(6/5) = 8

    On simplifying, we get:

    2x + 18/5 = 8
    2x = 8 - 18/5
    2x = 40/5 - 18/5
    2x = 22/5
    x = 11/5

    Hence the solution is (11/5, 6/5).

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Conclusion

Understanding the algebraic methods of substitution and elimination is essential to solving systems of linear equations. Both methods rely on simplifying the problem into a single equation with one variable, making it easier to solve. Practicing with these methods enhances problem-solving skills and lays a strong foundation for more advanced algebra topics.

As you work on these problems, you will discover the beauty of algebra and its ability to describe and solve relationships between variables using clear, logical processes.


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