Question

Julie is asked to solve the system below by elimination. Which of the following steps would be the best way to begin?
i. 2x + y = -3
ii. 3х - 2y = 2

A. Multiply equation i by 2 and multiply equation i by 3

B. Multiply equation. ii by 2

C. Multiply equation i by 2

D. Multiply equation ii by 2 and multiply equation i by -2

Answer 1

The best way to begin solving the system by elimination is to choose the steps that will result in the coefficients of one of the variables being equal in both equations.

In this case, if we multiply equation i by 2, we will have:
2(2x + y) = 2(-3)
4x + 2y = -6

Now, the coefficient of the y variable in both equations is 2.

Therefore, the best way to begin would be to select option C. Multiply equation i by 2.