Math Problem Statement

If the system of linear equations 2x + 3y = 7 and 2ax + (a + b)y = 28 has infinite number of solutions, then find the values of a and b.

Solution

For a system of linear equations to have infinite solutions, the two equations must be proportional to each other. This means that one equation is a scalar multiple of the other.

We are given the following system of equations:

  1. 2x+3y=72x + 3y = 7
  2. 2ax+(a+b)y=282ax + (a + b)y = 28

For infinite solutions, the ratios of the corresponding coefficients of xx, yy, and the constants must be equal. That is:

2a2=a+b3=287\frac{2a}{2} = \frac{a + b}{3} = \frac{28}{7}

Step 1: Compare the constants

From the third ratio, we can compare the constants:

287=4\frac{28}{7} = 4

Thus, the scalar multiplier is 4.

Step 2: Set up the proportional equations

Using this scalar multiplier, we now compare the coefficients of xx and yy:

  1. 2a2=4\frac{2a}{2} = 4, which simplifies to: a=4a = 4

  2. a+b3=4\frac{a + b}{3} = 4, which simplifies to: a+b=12a + b = 12

Step 3: Solve for bb

Since a=4a = 4, substitute this into the equation a+b=12a + b = 12:

4+b=124 + b = 12

Solving for bb:

b=124=8b = 12 - 4 = 8

Final Answer:

The values of aa and bb are:

a=4,b=8a = 4, \quad b = 8

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do we determine if a system of equations has no solutions?
  2. What conditions lead to a system having exactly one solution?
  3. Can you explain the geometric interpretation of infinite solutions for a system of linear equations?
  4. How do you solve systems of linear equations using substitution?
  5. How does elimination work in solving systems of linear equations?

Tip: Inconsistent systems have parallel lines that never intersect, indicating no solution.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
System of Equations
Proportionality

Formulas

\frac{2a}{2} = \frac{a + b}{3} = \frac{28}{7}
a = 4
a + b = 12

Theorems

Conditions for infinite solutions in a system of linear equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11