Question

Solve this system of linear equations. Separate the x- and y- values with a comma. 8x + 2y =-42 4x + 7y=-3

Answer 1

The value of x is equal to -6.

The value of y is equal to 3.

8x + 2y = -42

4x + 7y = -3

In the first equation, subtract 8x from both sides.

2y = -42 - 8x

Divide all terms by 2.

y = -21 - 4x

Now that we have a value of y, we can plug it into the second equation to solve for x.

4x + 7(-21 - 4x) = -3

Distributive property.

4x - 147 - 28x = -3

Combine like terms.

-24x - 147 = -3

Add 147 to both sides.

-24x = 144

Divide both sides by -24.

x = -6

Now that we have a true value for x, we can plug it into either equation to solve for y.

8(-6) + 2y = -42

-48 + 2y = -42

Add 48 to both sides.

2y = 6

Divide both sides by 2.

y = 3