Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices
Two Variable Systems of Linear Equations
Problem 49a
Textbook Question
In Exercises 49–50, solve each system for x and y, expressing either value in terms of a or b, if necessary. Assume that a ≠ 0, b ≠ 0
5ax + 4y = 17
ax + 7y = 22![Exercise 49: Two equations for solving x and y in terms of a and b.](https://lightcat-files.s3.amazonaws.com/problem_images/c50ee8f8bf506449-1678232871383.jpg)
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1
Step 1: Start with the given system of equations: \(5ax + 4y = 17\) and \(ax + 7y = 22\).
Step 2: Solve the second equation for \(x\) in terms of \(y\): \(ax = 22 - 7y\), so \(x = \frac{22 - 7y}{a}\).
Step 3: Substitute \(x = \frac{22 - 7y}{a}\) into the first equation: \(5a\left(\frac{22 - 7y}{a}\right) + 4y = 17\).
Step 4: Simplify the equation: \(5(22 - 7y) + 4y = 17a\).
Step 5: Solve for \(y\) and then substitute back to find \(x\) using \(x = \frac{22 - 7y}{a}\).
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