Question

5x+3y = 11 4x -y = 2 elimination

Answer 1

Answer:

a =3 and b = 8.

Step-by-step explanation:

These are WAY easier to solve if you get rid of all of the fractions before trying to elimiate or substitute.

Multiply every term on both sides of the top equation by 12 (Least common multiple)

Multiply every term on both sides of the bottom equation by 6.

Now we have

2a +3b = 30

4a - 3b = -12

Notice the +3b on top and the -3b on bottom?  Add vertically and this term will go away (be ELIMIATED).

6a = 18

a = 3

Now plug a=3 into either of the original equations and find b.

Into the bottom:  2(3)/3 - b/2 = -2

2 - b/2 = -2

-b/2 = -4

b = 8

So a =3 and b = 8.   Check to be sure these are correct.