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 31c
Textbook Question
In Exercises 29–42, solve each system by the method of your choice. 2x^2+y^2=18, xy=4
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1
Identify the given equations from the system: Equation 1 is $2x^2 + y^2 = 18$ and Equation 2 is $xy = 4$.
Express one variable in terms of the other from Equation 2. For example, solve for $y$ to get $y = \frac{4}{x}$.
Substitute the expression of $y$ from step 2 into Equation 1. Replace $y$ in $2x^2 + y^2 = 18$ with $\frac{4}{x}$ to get $2x^2 + \left(\frac{4}{x}\right)^2 = 18$.
Simplify and solve the resulting equation from step 3. Multiply through by $x^2$ to clear the fraction, resulting in a quadratic equation in terms of $x$.
Solve the quadratic equation for $x$, then substitute back into $y = \frac{4}{x}$ to find the corresponding $y$ values.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Systems of Equations
A system of equations consists of two or more equations that share common variables. The goal is to find the values of these variables that satisfy all equations simultaneously. In this case, we have a nonlinear system involving a quadratic equation and a product of variables, which requires specific methods for solving.
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Quadratic Equations
A quadratic equation is a polynomial equation of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants, and a ≠ 0. In the given system, the equation 2x^2 + y^2 = 18 represents a conic section, specifically an ellipse. Understanding the properties of quadratic equations is essential for manipulating and solving them within a system.
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Substitution and Elimination Methods
Substitution and elimination are two common methods for solving systems of equations. The substitution method involves solving one equation for a variable and substituting that expression into the other equation. The elimination method involves adding or subtracting equations to eliminate a variable. Choosing the appropriate method can simplify the process of finding solutions in nonlinear systems.
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