How do you solve the system of equations 5x - 2y = 32 and x + y = - 9?

1 Answer
Mar 30, 2017

x=2 and y=-11
BUT READ WHY :)

Explanation:

Okay so basically we start by putting both of the equations next to each other.

So...

5x - 2y = 32

x + y = -9

For this one, I'd use the substitution method, so...

x + y = -9

y= -9 - x

Now that we've got that, we can plug it into the top equation for y...

5x - 2(-9 - x) = 32

5x+18+2x=32

7x + 18 = 32

7x = 14

x=2

Now we solve in terms of y, using 2 for x...

2 + y = -9

y=-11

Now we have

x=2 and y=-11

Of course, don't forget to check ;)

5(2)-2(-11)=32

10+22=32

32=32

It checks! Make sure you understand what you're doing, don't just copy because I won't be here during your test! Leave a comment if you need further help!