Solving Systems of Equations by Elimination

Front

What is a system of equations?

Back

A set of two or more equations with the same variables.

Front

What does it mean to solve a system of equations by elimination?

Back

It means to eliminate one variable by adding or subtracting the equations, allowing you to solve for the other variable.

Front

What is the first step in solving a system of equations by elimination?

Back

Align the equations so that like terms are in the same column.

Front

What do you do if the coefficients of one variable are not the same in both equations?

Back

You can multiply one or both equations by a number to create matching coefficients.

Front

What does it mean if a system of equations has no solution?

Back

It means the lines represented by the equations are parallel and never intersect.

Front

What does it mean if a system of equations has an infinite number of solutions?

Back

It means the equations represent the same line, so every point on the line is a solution.

Front

How can you check if your solution to a system of equations is correct?

Back

Substitute the solution back into the original equations to see if both equations are satisfied.

Front

What is the elimination method?

Back

A method for solving systems of equations by removing one variable, making it easier to solve for the other.

Front

What is a coefficient in an equation?

Back

A numerical or constant quantity placed before a variable in an equation.

Front

What is a variable in an equation?

Back

A symbol used to represent an unknown value, often denoted by letters like x or y.