Math Problem Statement

Solve the system of equations by the elimination method: -8x - y = -6 -4x + y = -6

Solution

The problem involves solving a system of linear equations using the elimination method. The given equations are:

  1. 8xy=6-8x - y = -6
  2. 4x+y=6-4x + y = -6

Let me solve this step-by-step:

Step 1: Add the equations

Adding the two equations together eliminates yy:

(8xy)+(4x+y)=6+(6)(-8x - y) + (-4x + y) = -6 + (-6)

Simplify:

8x4x=12-8x - 4x = -12

12x=12-12x = -12

Step 2: Solve for xx

Divide both sides by 12-12:

x=1x = 1

Step 3: Substitute x=1x = 1 into one equation

Substitute x=1x = 1 into the first equation:

8(1)y=6-8(1) - y = -6

Simplify:

8y=6-8 - y = -6

Add 8 to both sides:

y=2-y = 2

Multiply through by 1-1:

y=2y = -2

Final Solution:

The solution to the system of equations is:

x=1,y=2x = 1, \, y = -2

Would you like further details or have any questions?
Here are 5 related questions for practice:

  1. Solve another system using elimination: 3x+2y=123x + 2y = 12 and 2x2y=62x - 2y = 6.
  2. What happens if elimination doesn't immediately work? What alternative method can you use?
  3. How can graphing confirm the solution to a system of linear equations?
  4. Solve the same system using substitution and compare results.
  5. What is the determinant of the coefficient matrix for this system?

Tip: Always double-check your solution by substituting the values of xx and yy back into the original equations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Equations
Systems of Equations
Elimination Method

Formulas

Combining linear equations to eliminate variables
Simplification of expressions

Theorems

Properties of equality

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10