Systems of Equations: Choose Best Method

Front

What is a system of equations?

Back

A set of two or more equations with the same variables.

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What does it mean for a system of equations to have one solution?

Back

The lines representing the equations intersect at exactly one point.

Front

What does it mean for a system of equations to have no solution?

Back

The lines representing the equations are parallel and never intersect.

Front

What does it mean for a system of equations to have infinitely many solutions?

Back

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

Front

What is the substitution method?

Back

A method for solving systems of equations by solving one equation for one variable and substituting that value into the other equation.

Front

What is the elimination method?

Back

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

Front

What is the equal values method?

Back

A method for solving systems of equations by setting the two equations equal to each other.

Front

How do you determine the best method to solve a system of equations?

Back

Consider the structure of the equations; use substitution for easier equations and elimination for equations that align well.

Front

What does the graph of intersecting lines represent?

Back

It represents a system of equations with one unique solution.

Front

What does the graph of parallel lines represent?

Back

It represents a system of equations with no solution.