Math Problem Statement

How many solutions does the system of equations have? { y + (2/3)x = 4, 2x = 12 - 3y }

Solution

To determine how many solutions this system of equations has, let’s analyze it step-by-step. The system is:

y + \frac{2}{3}x = 4 \\ 2x = 12 - 3y \end{cases}$$ ### Step 1: Rewrite Both Equations in Slope-Intercept Form To see if the lines represented by these equations are parallel, intersecting, or the same line (which tells us about the number of solutions), we can rewrite each equation in the form $$y = mx + b$$. #### First Equation: $$y + \frac{2}{3}x = 4$$ Subtract $$\frac{2}{3}x$$ from both sides: $$y = -\frac{2}{3}x + 4$$ This equation has a slope of $$-\frac{2}{3}$$ and a y-intercept of 4. #### Second Equation: $$2x = 12 - 3y$$ To isolate $$y$$, first add $$3y$$ to both sides: $$3y = 12 - 2x$$ Now, divide by 3: $$y = -\frac{2}{3}x + 4$$ This equation also has a slope of $$-\frac{2}{3}$$ and a y-intercept of 4. ### Step 2: Determine the Number of Solutions Since both equations simplify to the same line ($$y = -\frac{2}{3}x + 4$$), they are identical. This means every point on one line is also on the other line, and thus, the system has **infinitely many solutions**. ### Conclusion The system of equations has **infinitely many solutions**. Would you like additional explanation, or have any questions? --- Here are 5 related questions to consider: 1. What conditions on the slopes and intercepts lead to a system with no solutions? 2. How would you identify if two equations represent parallel lines? 3. What is the graphical interpretation of a system with exactly one solution? 4. How can you verify solutions if given specific values for $$x$$ and $$y$$? 5. What is the role of the determinant in determining the number of solutions in a system of linear equations? **Tip:** When examining systems of equations, rewriting equations in slope-intercept form helps to quickly determine relationships between lines (parallel, identical, or intersecting).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Equations
Systems of Equations
Slope-Intercept Form

Formulas

Slope-intercept form: y = mx + b

Theorems

Concept of parallel lines
Infinitely many solutions for identical lines

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10