Exploring Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

The video tutorial introduces the elimination method for solving systems of equations, explaining it as a process of adding or subtracting equations to eliminate a variable. The instructor outlines the steps involved, including aligning equations, adding or subtracting to eliminate variables, and solving for the remaining variable. Several examples are provided, ranging from simple to more complex problems, to demonstrate the method in practice. The tutorial concludes with instructions for homework assignments.

What is the first step in the elimination method?

• Solve for one variable

• Make sure the equations are lined up

• Subtract the equations

• Add the equations together

What should you do if the coefficients of a variable are already opposites?

• Multiply the equations

• Add the equations

• Subtract the equations

• Divide the equations

In Example 1, what is the value of y after eliminating x?

• 3

• 0

• 2

• 1

In Example 1, what is the final value of x?

• 1

• 0

• -1

• 2

In Example 2, what is the value of x after eliminating y?

• 5

• 2

• 3

• 4

In Example 2, what is the final value of y?

• 3

• 4

• 2

• 5

What should you do if there are no opposites in the system of equations?

• Add the equations

• Subtract the equations

• Multiply one equation by -1

• Divide one equation by 2

In Example 3, what is the value of x after making the coefficients of y opposites?

• -3

• -2

• 2

• 3

In Example 4, what is the value of y after eliminating x?

• 3

• 1

• 2

• 4

In Example 4, what is the final value of x?

• 4

• 6

• 5

• 3