Question

Consider the system of equations below. What could be the first step in solving by elimination?

Answer 1

The first step would be to multiply the bottom equation by -1 to eliminate x, then you would combine like terms, like 5y + 2y, and 16 + 10.

Answer 2

Subtracting the 2 equations

Explanation:

3x + 5y = 16

3x + 2y = 10

Subtract it;

3y = 6

Divide both sides b 3;

y = 2

Substitute y;

3x + 5y = 16

3x + 5(2) = 16

3x + 10 = 16

Subtract 10 from both sides;

3x = 6

Divide both sides by 3;

x = 2

(x, y) = (2, 2)