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 17a
Textbook Question
In Exercises 5–18, solve each system by the substitution method.
y = (1/3)x + 2/3
y = (5/7)x - 2

1
Step 1: Set the two equations equal to each other since they both equal y. So, (1/3)x + 2/3 = (5/7)x - 2.
Step 2: Clear the fractions by finding a common denominator. The common denominator for 3 and 7 is 21. Multiply every term by 21 to eliminate the fractions.
Step 3: Distribute 21 to each term: 21 * (1/3)x + 21 * (2/3) = 21 * (5/7)x - 21 * 2.
Step 4: Simplify the equation: 7x + 14 = 15x - 42.
Step 5: Solve for x by isolating the variable. Subtract 7x from both sides and then add 42 to both sides.

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