Systems of Equations: Choosing the Best Method

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What is a system of equations?

Back

A set of two or more equations with the same variables that are solved together.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8B

CCSS.HSA.REI.C.6

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What does it mean if a system of equations has one solution?

Back

The lines representing the equations intersect at exactly one point.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8A

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

Back

The lines representing the equations are parallel and never intersect.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8A

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What does it mean if a system of equations has infinitely many solutions?

Back

The lines representing the equations coincide, meaning they are the same line.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8A

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What is the substitution method?

Back

A method for solving systems of equations where one equation is solved for one variable and substituted into the other equation.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8B

CCSS.HSA.REI.C.6

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What is the elimination method?

Back

A method for solving systems of equations by adding or subtracting equations to eliminate one variable.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8B

CCSS.HSA.REI.C.6

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What is the graphing method?

Back

A method for solving systems of equations by graphing the equations and finding their intersection point.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8B

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When is the substitution method most useful?

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When one equation is easily solvable for one variable.

Tags

CCSS.8.EE.C.8B

CCSS.HSA.REI.C.6

Front

When is the elimination method most useful?

Back

When the coefficients of one variable are the same or can be easily manipulated to be the same.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8B

CCSS.HSA.REI.C.6

Front

When is the graphing method most useful?

Back

When you want a visual representation of the solution or when the equations are simple.

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CCSS.8.EE.C.8B