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Analyze solutions of systems

Learning goals

  • Writes equations relating the system’s unknown quantities.
  • Solves the system using an appropriate method.
  • Interprets the solution as a common point or common values.
  • Checks the solution in all equations.
  • Recognizes whether the system has one, none, or infinitely many solutions when relevant.

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Analyze solutions of systems 1
The graph shows two lines in a system. How many solutions does the system have? Explain using the graph.
Figure for problem 552015

Hints

- A solution would be a point shared by both lines. - Compare the directions of the two lines and whether they ever meet.

Solution

1. The two lines have the same slope, so they are parallel. 2. They have different y-intercepts, so they are distinct lines. 3. Parallel distinct lines never intersect, so the system has no solution.

Answer

No solution; the two distinct lines are parallel and never intersect.
Analyze solutions of systems 2
Consider the system \(\begin{cases} x + 2y = 6 \\ 2x + 4y = 12 \end{cases}\). Does the system have one solution, no solution, or infinitely many solutions? Explain.

Hints

- Compare the coefficients and constants in the two equations. - Check whether one entire equation is a nonzero multiple of the other.

Solution

1. The second equation is exactly \(2\) times the first equation. 2. Therefore, both equations represent the same line. 3. Every solution of one equation is also a solution of the other, so the system has infinitely many solutions.

Answer

Infinitely many solutions; the two equations represent the same line.
Analyze solutions of systems 3
The graph shows two lines in a system. Does the system have exactly one solution, no solution, or infinitely many solutions? Explain using the graph.
Figure for problem 554666

Hints

- A solution of a two-line system is a point shared by both lines. - Count how many points the two lines have in common on the graph.

Solution

1. The two lines have different slopes, so they are not parallel and do not coincide. 2. The graph shows that they cross at one point. 3. Therefore, the system has exactly one solution.

Answer

Exactly one solution, because the two lines intersect at one point.
Analyze solutions of systems 4
Use substitution to determine whether each given ordered pair is a solution of the system. a) \(\begin{cases} 3x + y = 7 \\ x - 2y = 0 \end{cases}\); ordered pair \((2, 1)\) b) \(\begin{cases} 4x - 3y = 2 \\ 2x + y = 10 \end{cases}\); ordered pair \((3, 4)\)

Hints

- A solution of a system must satisfy every equation in the system. - The first coordinate is the \(x\)-value and the second is the \(y\)-value. - Satisfying only one equation is not enough.

Solution

1. Substitute \((2, 1)\) into the first equation of part a): \(3(2)+1=7\). Substitute into the second: \(2-2(1)=0\). Both equations are true, so \((2,1)\) is a solution. 2. Substitute \((3,4)\) into the first equation of part b): \(4(3)-3(4)=0\), not \(2\). 3. Although the second equation is true because \(2(3)+4=10\), the ordered pair does not satisfy both equations, so it is not a solution of the system.

Answer

a) Yes, \((2, 1)\) is a solution. b) No, \((3, 4)\) is not a solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 5
Two lines are given by \(g: y = 1.5x - 4\) \(h: y = -x + 6\). Caio claims that the lines intersect at \(P(4, 2)\). Determine algebraically whether the claim is true.

Hints

- A point lies on a line when its coordinates satisfy the line equation. - An intersection point must lie on both lines. - Test the proposed point in each equation.

Solution

1. An intersection point must satisfy both equations. 2. Test \(P(4, 2)\) in line \(g\): \(1.5(4) - 4 = 6 - 4 = 2\). The point lies on \(g\). 3. Test the point in line \(h\): \(-4 + 6 = 2\). The point also lies on \(h\). 4. Therefore, \(P(4, 2)\) is the intersection point, and Caio's claim is true.

Answer

The claim is true because \(P(4, 2)\) satisfies both equations.
Analyze solutions of systems 6
Determine the number of solutions of each system. State whether it has exactly one solution, no solution, or infinitely many solutions, and briefly justify your answer. a) \(\begin{cases} y = 2x - 5 \\ 4x - 2y = 10 \end{cases}\) b) \(\begin{cases} 3x + y = 7 \\ 3x + y = -2 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Rewrite the equations in comparable forms. - What does it mean graphically when two equations are equivalent? - Identical left sides with different constants create a contradiction. - Can distinct parallel lines intersect?

Solution

1. In part a), \(y = 2x - 5\) is equivalent to \(4x - 2y = 10\). The equations represent the same line, so the system has infinitely many solutions. 2. In part b), the left sides are identical but the constants are different. This would require \(7=-2\), which is impossible. 3. Therefore, the equations in part b) represent distinct parallel lines, so the system has no solution.

Answer

a) Infinitely many solutions b) No solution
Analyze solutions of systems 7
Consider the two lines \(g: y = 3x - 4\) \(h: y = 3x + 2\). Describe the positions of the two lines relative to each other. Then determine whether there is an ordered pair \((x, y)\) that satisfies both equations, and justify your answer.

Hints

- Compare the slopes in the two equations. - Then compare the y-intercepts. - What does having the same slope but different intercepts mean for two lines?

Solution

1. Both lines have slope \(3\), but their y-intercepts are different: \(-4\) and \(2\). 2. Therefore, the lines are distinct and parallel. 3. Distinct parallel lines do not intersect, so no ordered pair satisfies both equations. 4. Algebraically, setting the equations equal gives \(3x-4=3x+2\), which simplifies to the contradiction \(-4=2\).

Answer

The lines are distinct and parallel. There is no ordered pair that satisfies both equations, so the system has no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 8
The graph shows two lines, labeled p and q, that form a system. State the solution set and justify your answer using only what the graph shows.
Figure for problem 524214

Hints

- Does either line ever cross the other? - What does an intersection represent for a system? - Distinguish between lines that coincide and lines that remain separate.

Solution

1. The graph shows two distinct parallel lines. 2. Distinct parallel lines never intersect. 3. Therefore, there is no ordered pair that satisfies both equations, so the solution set is \(\emptyset\).

Answer

The solution set is \(\emptyset\) because the two lines are distinct and parallel.
Analyze solutions of systems 9
Consider the system (I) \(2x - 3y = 6\) (II) \(-4x + 6y = -12\). a) Rewrite both equations in slope-intercept form. What do you notice? b) Without graphing, determine the number of solutions and describe the positions of the corresponding lines.

Hints

- Isolate \(y\) in each equation. - What does it mean when two slope-intercept equations are identical? - How many points do coincident lines share?

Solution

1. Rewrite equation (I) as \(y=\frac{2}{3}x-2\). 2. Rewrite equation (II) as \(y=\frac{2}{3}x-2\). 3. The slope-intercept forms are identical, so the equations represent the same line. 4. Therefore, the system has infinitely many solutions and the two lines coincide.

Answer

a) Both equations become \(y = \frac{2}{3}x - 2\). b) The system has infinitely many solutions because the two lines coincide.
Analyze solutions of systems 10
Analyze the relationship between lines \(g\) and \(h\) in the coordinate plane. Write the corresponding system of linear equations and give its solution set.
Figure for problem 533224

Hints

- Compare the slopes of the two lines. What does it mean for the number of solutions when the slopes are equal? - If two lines never intersect, can any ordered pair satisfy both equations?

Solution

1. Line \(g\) has \(y\)-intercept \(1\) and slope \(0.5\), so its equation is \(y = 0.5x + 1\). 2. Line \(h\) has \(y\)-intercept \(-2\) and slope \(0.5\), so its equation is \(y = 0.5x - 2\). 3. The lines have the same slope but different \(y\)-intercepts, so they are distinct parallel lines. 4. Because the lines have no point in common, the system has no solution. Its solution set is \(\emptyset\).

Answer

(I) \(y = 0.5x + 1\); (II) \(y = 0.5x - 2\); solution set: \(\emptyset\)
Analyze solutions of systems 11
Could the two graphed lines meet outside the part shown? Explain how you know.
Figure for problem 560059

Hints

- Compare the direction and steepness of both lines. - Do they appear to have the same starting height on the y-axis? - What do equal slopes and different intercepts mean for intersections?

Solution

1. The two lines rise by the same amount for equal horizontal moves, so they have equal slopes. 2. Their y-intercepts are different. Distinct parallel lines never meet, inside or outside the window. 3. The system has no solution.

Answer

No. The lines have the same slope but different intercepts, so the system has no solution anywhere.
Analyze solutions of systems 12
Determine the quadrant containing the intersection point \(S(x, y)\) of the lines \(y = -3x - 2\) and \(y = 2x - 7\). Justify your answer by comparing the slopes and y-intercepts without calculating the exact intersection point.

Hints

- Which line is higher at \(x = 0\)? - How do the y-values change as you move to the right, based on the slopes? - Which quadrant has positive x-values and negative y-values?

Solution

1. At \(x = 0\), the first line has y-value \(-2\) and the second has y-value \(-7\), so the first line is above the second. 2. The first line has negative slope \(-3\), while the second has positive slope \(2\). Moving to the right, the first line decreases and the second increases, so they must meet at a positive x-value. 3. At that positive x-value, the first equation gives \(y = -3x - 2 < 0\). 4. Therefore, the intersection has \(x > 0\) and \(y < 0\), so it lies in Quadrant IV.

Answer

The intersection point lies in Quadrant IV.
Analyze solutions of systems 13
Consider two systems of linear equations. System A: \(y = 0.5x + 4\) and \(y = 3x - 1\) System B: \(y = 0.5x + 4\) and \(y = 0.2x - 1\) In which system does the intersection point have a negative x-coordinate? Explain without calculating either intersection exactly.

Hints

- Compare the slopes in each system. - If the lower line at \(x = 0\) is going to catch the upper line for positive \(x\), which line must rise faster? - What happens when the lower line has the smaller slope instead?

Solution

1. In both systems, at \(x = 0\) the first line is at \(y = 4\) and the second line is at \(y = -1\), so the first line starts above the second. 2. In System A, the second line has slope \(3\), which is greater than \(0.5\). It rises faster, so it catches the first line for a positive x-value. 3. In System B, the second line has slope \(0.2\), which is less than \(0.5\). Moving right, it falls farther behind the first line, so the intersection must occur for a negative x-value. 4. Therefore, System B has an intersection with a negative x-coordinate.

Answer

System B
Analyze solutions of systems 14
Two linear equations describe lines in the coordinate plane: (I) \(-2x + y = 4\) (II) \(4x - 2y = 6\) Analyze the relationship between the two lines. First determine the slope of each line, then explain whether the lines have an intersection point.

Hints

- Rewrite each equation in slope-intercept form. - What must be true about the slopes of distinct parallel lines? - What does parallelism mean for the number of solutions of the system?

Solution

1. Rewrite equation (I): \(y = 2x + 4\). Its slope is \(m_1 = 2\). 2. Rewrite equation (II): \(-2y = -4x + 6\), so \(y = 2x - 3\). Its slope is \(m_2 = 2\). 3. The lines have the same slope but different y-intercepts, \(4\) and \(-3\). Therefore, they are distinct parallel lines. 4. Distinct parallel lines do not intersect, so the corresponding system has no solution.

Answer

Both lines have slope \(2\). Because their y-intercepts are different, the lines are parallel and have no intersection point. The system has no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 15
Consider the linear equation \(0.5x - 0.25y = 1\). Write a second linear equation so that the two equations form a system with no solution. Justify why your equation works.

Hints

- Rewrite the given equation in slope-intercept form. - What relationship between two distinct lines makes a system have no solution? - Which part of \(y=mx+b\) should stay the same, and which part should change?

Solution

1. Rewrite the given equation in slope-intercept form: \(0.5x - 0.25y = 1\) is equivalent to \(y = 2x - 4\). 2. A system has no solution when its two lines are distinct and parallel, so the second line must also have slope \(2\) but a different y-intercept. 3. One valid choice is \(y = 2x - 8\), which is equivalent to \(0.5x - 0.25y = 2\). 4. The two lines have the same slope and different y-intercepts, so they never intersect.

Answer

One possible equation is \(0.5x - 0.25y = 2\). It represents a distinct parallel line, so the system has no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 16
The ordered pair \((5, 2)\) is the solution of a linear system. The second equation contains an unknown parameter \(k\): (I) \(x + 2y = 9\) (II) \(3x - ky = 11\) Find \(k\).

Hints

- A solution must satisfy both equations. - Substitute the given coordinates into the equation containing \(k\). - Solve the resulting one-variable equation.

Solution

1. Because \((5, 2)\) is a solution, it must satisfy equation (II). 2. Substitute \(x = 5\) and \(y = 2\): \(3(5) - 2k = 11\). 3. Simplify: \(15 - 2k = 11\), so \(-2k = -4\). 4. Divide by \(-2\): \(k = 2\).

Answer

\(k = 2\)
Analyze solutions of systems 17
Consider line \(g\), given by \(y = \frac{1}{2}x + 1\). a) Write an equation for a line \(h\) that is parallel to \(g\) but has no points in common with \(g\). How many solutions does the system formed by \(g\) and \(h\) have? b) Now change line \(h\) so that its equation is \(y = -x + 4\). Find the solution of the new system formed by \(g\) and \(h\) by graphing.

Hints

- What must be true about the slopes of two parallel lines? - How many points do two distinct parallel lines have in common? - For part b), graph both lines carefully in the same coordinate plane.

Solution

1. A line parallel to \(g\) must have slope \(\frac{1}{2}\) but a different y-intercept. One possible equation is \(y = \frac{1}{2}x - 2\). 2. The two lines are distinct and parallel, so the system in part a) has no solution. 3. For part b), graph \(y = \frac{1}{2}x + 1\) and \(y = -x + 4\) on the same coordinate plane. The lines intersect at \((2,2)\). 4. Check the graph reading: \(\frac{1}{2}\cdot2+1=2\) and \(-2+4=2\).

Answer

a) One possible equation is \(y = \frac{1}{2}x - 2\). The system has no solution. b) The solution of the new system is \((2, 2)\).
Analyze solutions of systems 18
Consider the system containing the parameter \(k\): (I) \(6x - 3y = 12\) (II) \(y = 2x + k\) Find the value of \(k\) for which the system has infinitely many solutions. Then explain how many solutions the system has for any other value of \(k\).

Hints

- Write both equations in slope-intercept form. - When do two equations represent the same line? - What conditions make two lines parallel? - Could these two lines ever intersect once?

Solution

1. Solve equation (I) for \(y\): \(6x - 3y = 12\) becomes \(y = 2x - 4\). 2. For infinitely many solutions, equation (II), \(y = 2x + k\), must represent the same line. Therefore, \(k = -4\). 3. For \(k \ne -4\), the two lines have the same slope \(2\) but different \(y\)-intercepts. They are distinct parallel lines, so the system has no solution.

Answer

For \(k = -4\), the system has infinitely many solutions. For every \(k \ne -4\), it has no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 19
Consider the system containing parameters \(a\) and \(b\): (I) \(5x - 2y = 10\) (II) \(ax + 4y = b\) a) Find \(a\) and \(b\) so that the system has infinitely many solutions. b) Find the conditions on \(a\) and \(b\) so that the system has no solution.

Hints

- When do two equations represent the same line? - What coefficient relationships make two lines parallel? - Scale one equation so that its \(y\)-coefficient matches the other.

Solution

1. Multiply equation (I) by \(-2\): \(-10x+4y=-20\). 2. For infinitely many solutions, equation (II) must be identical to this scaled equation, so \(a=-10\) and \(b=-20\). 3. For no solution, the variable coefficients must remain proportional while the constant is different. 4. Therefore, \(a=-10\) and \(b\ne-20\).

Answer

a) \(a = -10\) and \(b = -20\) b) \(a = -10\) and \(b \ne -20\)
Analyze solutions of systems 20
Consider the system containing the parameter \(k\): (I) \(y = 3x - 4\) (II) \(y = kx + 2\) a) For what value of \(k\) does the system have no solution? Justify your answer geometrically. b) Find the solution when \(k = 1\).

Hints

- In \(y = mx + b\), which value gives the slope? - When do two lines fail to intersect? - Which solving method is efficient when both equations are solved for \(y\)?

Solution

1. A system of two distinct parallel lines has no solution. Equation (I) has slope \(3\), so equation (II) is parallel when \(k=3\). 2. Their y-intercepts, \(-4\) and \(2\), are different, so when \(k=3\) the lines are distinct and the system has no solution. 3. When \(k=1\), set the expressions equal: \(3x-4=x+2\). Then \(2x=6\), so \(x=3\). 4. Substitute into equation (I): \(y=5\). Therefore the solution is \((3,5)\).

Answer

a) \(k = 3\) b) \((3, 5)\)
Analyze solutions of systems 21
Without graphing, determine the number of solutions of the following system. Justify your answer by comparing slopes and \(y\)-intercepts. (I) \(6x - 2y = 4\) (II) \(y = 3x + 5\) How many intersection points do the corresponding lines have?

Hints

- Write both equations in slope-intercept form. - What does it mean when two lines have the same slope? - Compare their \(y\)-intercepts. - How many points do distinct parallel lines share?

Solution

1. Rewrite equation (I) in slope-intercept form: \(6x - 2y = 4\) becomes \(y = 3x - 2\). 2. The two lines have the same slope, \(3\), but different \(y\)-intercepts, \(-2\) and \(5\). 3. Therefore, the lines are distinct and parallel. They have no intersection point, so the system has no solution.

Answer

The system has no solution. The lines have \(0\) intersection points.
Analyze solutions of systems 22
Arman states: “If the \(x\)- and \(y\)-coefficients in the second equation are exactly twice those in the first equation, then the system always has infinitely many solutions.” Test the claim using these examples. Explain whether Arman is correct or whether the rule is incomplete. Example 1: \(\begin{cases} x + 2y = 5 \\ 2x + 4y = 10 \end{cases}\) Example 2: \(\begin{cases} x + 2y = 5 \\ 2x + 4y = 12 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Compare what happens when the entire first equation is scaled by the same factor. - Check both the variable coefficients and the constant term. - Decide whether each pair of equations represents the same line or distinct parallel lines.

Solution

1. In Example 1, multiplying the first equation by \(2\) gives \(2x + 4y = 10\), exactly the second equation. The system has infinitely many solutions. 2. In Example 2, doubling the first equation would give \(2x + 4y = 10\), not \(12\). The equations represent distinct parallel lines, so the system has no solution. 3. The rule is incomplete. The constant must be multiplied by the same factor as the variable coefficients for the equations to be equivalent.

Answer

Arman's rule is incomplete. Infinitely many solutions occur only when every term, including the constant, is scaled by the same factor. Otherwise, the system may have no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 23
Consider the three linear functions: \(f(x) = \frac{2}{3}x + 2\) \(g(x) = \frac{2}{3}x - 5\) \(h(x) = -x + 7\) a) Explain without solving an equation why the graphs of \(f\) and \(g\) do not intersect. b) Find the coordinates of the intersection of the graphs of \(g\) and \(h\).

Hints

- Compare the slopes of the functions first. - What happens when two distinct lines have the same slope? - When solving the equation with fractions, multiplying both sides by a common denominator may help.

Solution

1. The functions \(f\) and \(g\) have the same slope, \(\frac{2}{3}\), but different y-intercepts, \(2\) and \(-5\). Therefore, their graphs are distinct parallel lines and do not intersect. 2. For \(g\) and \(h\), set the expressions equal: \(\frac{2}{3}x-5=-x+7\). 3. Then \(\frac{5}{3}x=12\), so \(x=\frac{36}{5}=7.2\). 4. Substitute into \(h\): \(y=-7.2+7=-0.2\). The intersection is \((7.2,-0.2)\).

Answer

a) The graphs are parallel because they have the same slope, \(\frac{2}{3}\), but different y-intercepts. b) The intersection is \((7.2, -0.2)\).
Analyze solutions of systems 24
For each system, determine whether it has no solution, exactly one solution, or infinitely many solutions. Justify your answer by comparing slopes and y-intercepts. (1) \(\begin{cases} y = 4x - 2 \\ y = 4x + 3 \end{cases}\) (2) \(\begin{cases} y = -x + 1 \\ y = x + 1 \end{cases}\) (3) \(\begin{cases} y = 2x + 5 \\ 4x - 2y = -10 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Connect the number of solutions to the relative positions of two lines. - Compare slopes and intercepts. - Rewrite standard-form equations in slope-intercept form when useful.

Solution

1. In system (1), the slopes are equal but the y-intercepts differ. The lines are distinct and parallel, so there is no solution. 2. In system (2), the slopes are different. The lines intersect once, so there is exactly one solution. 3. In system (3), rewrite the second equation as \(y=2x+5\). The equations are identical, so there are infinitely many solutions.

Answer

(1) No solution (2) Exactly one solution (3) Infinitely many solutions
Analyze solutions of systems 25
Two numbers \(a\) and \(b\) satisfy \(a - b = 5\). 1. Explain why saying “the solution is \(a = 10\) and \(b = 5\)” does not fully describe the solution set. 2. What additional condition could be added so that \((10, 5)\) is the only solution? Give one possible equation. 3. How many solutions are there if the additional condition is \(a - b = 8\)? Explain without graphing.

Hints

- Can you find other pairs whose difference is \(5\)? - A unique solution requires a second line that intersects the first at the desired point. - Can the same expression \(a - b\) equal \(5\) and \(8\) at the same time?

Solution

1. The equation \(a - b = 5\) has infinitely many solutions, such as \((10, 5)\), \((6, 1)\), and \((0, -5)\). Thus, \((10, 5)\) is only one solution. 2. A second equation that intersects the first at \((10, 5)\) can make the solution unique. For example, \(a + b = 15\). Together, the two equations have the single solution \((10, 5)\). 3. The equations \(a - b = 5\) and \(a - b = 8\) cannot both be true. Subtracting them gives the contradiction \(0 = 3\), so the system has no solution.

Answer

1. The equation has infinitely many solutions, so \((10, 5)\) is only one of them. 2. One possible additional equation is \(a + b = 15\). 3. The system has no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 26
Determine whether the following system is solvable: \(\begin{cases} 0.4x - 0.6y = 1.2 \\ 2x - 3y = 5 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Multiply the first equation by a factor that removes the decimals. - Compare the resulting left sides of the two equations. - Subtract the equations and interpret the statement that remains. - Ask whether one identical linear expression can equal two different constants.

Solution

1. Multiply the first equation by \(5\): \(2x - 3y = 6\). 2. Compare it with the second equation, \(2x - 3y = 5\). 3. Subtracting the equations gives \(0 = 1\), a contradiction. 4. Therefore, the system has no solution.

Answer

The system has no solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 27
Find the solution set of each system. a) \(\begin{cases} 3x + 2y = 7 \\ 5x - y = 3 \end{cases}\) b) \(\begin{cases} 6x - 9y = 12 \\ 4x - 6y = 8 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Solve one equation for a variable when substitution is convenient. - Simplify each equation by dividing by a common factor. - How many intersections can two lines have? - Check the solution to part a in both original equations.

Solution

1. For part a), solve the second equation for \(y\): \(y=5x-3\). 2. Substitute into the first equation: \(3x+2(5x-3)=7\), so \(13x=13\) and \(x=1\). Then \(y=2\), so the solution set is \(\{(1,2)\}\). 3. For part b), divide the first equation by \(3\) and the second by \(2\). Both become \(2x-3y=4\). 4. The equations represent the same line, so there are infinitely many solutions: \(\{(x,y)\mid 2x-3y=4\}\).

Answer

a) \(\{(1, 2)\}\) b) Infinitely many solutions: \(\{(x, y) \mid 2x - 3y = 4\}\)
Analyze solutions of systems 28
Analyze each system and give its solution set when possible. a) \(\begin{cases} \frac{1}{2}x + \frac{2}{3}y = 5 \\ 3x + 4y = 20 \end{cases}\) b) \(\begin{cases} 0.4x - 0.3y = 1.1 \\ 0.5x + 0.2y = 0.8 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Clear fractions or decimals before comparing or solving. - A contradiction means the solution set is empty. - Choose an efficient solving method after simplifying. - Track signs carefully.

Solution

1. For part a), multiply the first equation by \(6\): \(3x+4y=30\). 2. This contradicts \(3x+4y=20\), so the system has no solution. 3. For part b), multiply both equations by \(10\): \(4x-3y=11\) and \(5x+2y=8\). 4. Multiply the first new equation by \(2\) and the second by \(3\): \(8x-6y=22\) and \(15x+6y=24\). 5. Add to get \(23x=46\), so \(x=2\). Then \(5(2)+2y=8\), so \(y=-1\). The solution set is \(\{(2,-1)\}\).

Answer

a) No solution; the solution set is empty. b) The solution set is \(\{(2, -1)\}\).
Analyze solutions of systems 29
For each system, determine the number of solutions without first solving it. Justify your decision by comparing slopes and y-intercepts. Then solve the system that has exactly one solution. a) \(\begin{cases} y = 2x + 3 \\ y = 2x - 1 \end{cases}\) b) \(\begin{cases} y = -x + 4 \\ y = 2x - 2 \end{cases}\) c) \(\begin{cases} 2x + y = 4 \\ 4x + 2y = 8 \end{cases}\)

Hints

- Relate the number of solutions to the positions of the lines. - Compare slopes first, then intercepts. - Equivalent equations describe the same line. - When both equations are solved for \(y\), set their expressions equal.

Solution

1. In part a), the lines have the same slope but different y-intercepts, so the system has no solution. 2. In part b), the slopes are different, so there is exactly one solution. Set the expressions equal: \(-x+4=2x-2\). Then \(3x=6\), so \(x=2\) and \(y=2\). 3. In part c), the second equation is twice the first, so the equations represent the same line and there are infinitely many solutions.

Answer

a) No solution b) Exactly one solution, \((2, 2)\) c) Infinitely many solutions
Analyze solutions of systems 30
Consider the system (I) \(\frac{1}{2}x + y = 2\) (II) \(3x - 2y = 12\). 1. Solve the system using any algebraic method. 2. Rewrite both equations in slope-intercept form. 3. Use the slope-intercept forms to explain why the system must have exactly one solution, without recalculating the intersection.

Hints

- Solve one equation for a variable and substitute. - Be careful with signs when solving equation (II) for \(y\). - Compare the slopes in the two slope-intercept forms. - How do different slopes determine the number of intersections?

Solution

1. From equation (I), \(y = -\frac{1}{2}x + 2\). Substitute into equation (II): \(3x - 2\left(-\frac{1}{2}x + 2\right) = 12\). This gives \(4x - 4 = 12\), so \(x = 4\). Then \(y = 0\), so the solution is \((4, 0)\). 2. The slope-intercept forms are \(y = -0.5x + 2\) and \(y = 1.5x - 6\). 3. The slopes are different, so the two lines intersect at exactly one point. Therefore, the system has exactly one solution.

Answer

1. \((4, 0)\) 2. \(y = -0.5x + 2\) and \(y = 1.5x - 6\) 3. The slopes are different, so the system has exactly one solution.
Analyze solutions of systems 31
Two numbers have a sum of \(12\). The sum of four times the first number and four times the second number is \(50\). Determine algebraically whether such a pair of numbers can exist, and justify your answer.

Hints

- Translate each condition into an equation. - Factor the second equation. - Substitute the expression from the first equation. - Does the result produce a true statement or a contradiction?

Solution

1. Let \(x\) and \(y\) be the two numbers. The conditions give \(x + y = 12\) and \(4x + 4y = 50\). 2. Factor the second equation: \(4(x + y) = 50\). 3. Substitute \(x + y = 12\): \(4(12) = 50\), which gives the false statement \(48 = 50\). 4. Therefore, the system is inconsistent and no such pair exists.

Answer

No such pair exists because the conditions lead to the contradiction \(48 = 50\).
Analyze solutions of systems 32
A theme park gives two group-price statements: Statement A: Admission for \(3\) adults and \(5\) children costs \(\$110.00\). Statement B: Admission for \(9\) adults and \(15\) children costs \(\$330.00\). Can the price of one adult ticket be determined uniquely from this information? Justify your answer using a linear system.

Hints

- Write one equation for each price statement. - Compare the coefficients and constants. - What does it mean when one equation is a multiple of the other? - Could more than one pair of ticket prices satisfy both statements?

Solution

1. Let \(x\) be the adult ticket price and \(y\) the child ticket price, in dollars. 2. The system is \(3x + 5y = 110\) and \(9x + 15y = 330\). 3. Multiplying the first equation by \(3\) gives the second equation exactly. 4. The equations contain the same information, so the system has infinitely many solutions. Therefore, the adult ticket price cannot be determined uniquely.

Answer

No. The second equation is three times the first, so there are infinitely many possible price pairs and the adult ticket price is not unique.
Analyze solutions of systems 33
A rectangular frame is supposed to have a perimeter of exactly \(80\,\text{cm}\). It is also required that the length and width add to \(45\,\text{cm}\). Determine algebraically whether such a frame can be built.

Hints

- Write the perimeter formula for a rectangle. - Express both requirements as equations. - Simplify the perimeter equation before comparing. - What does a contradiction mean for the construction?

Solution

1. Let \(l\) be the length and \(w\) the width, in centimeters. 2. The perimeter condition gives \(2(l + w) = 80\), so \(l + w = 40\). 3. The second condition gives \(l + w = 45\). 4. The same sum cannot equal both \(40\) and \(45\). The system has no solution, so the frame cannot be built.

Answer

No. A perimeter of \(80\,\text{cm}\) requires \(l + w = 40\,\text{cm}\), which contradicts \(l + w = 45\,\text{cm}\).
Analyze solutions of systems 34
Dilshod claims, “If two line equations in a system have the same slope, the system never has a solution.” Analyze the claim using these examples: System A: \(\begin{cases} y = 0.5x + 2 \\ x - 2y = -4 \end{cases}\) System B: \(\begin{cases} y = 0.5x + 2 \\ x - 2y = 6 \end{cases}\) 1. Rewrite each second equation in slope-intercept form. 2. Determine the number of solutions of each system. 3. Explain when Dilshod's claim is correct and when it is not.

Hints

- Put each line into a form that makes slope and intercept easy to compare. - Decide whether the two equations in each system describe the same line or distinct parallel lines. - Equal slopes alone do not determine whether the lines coincide.

Solution

1. In System A, \(x - 2y = -4\) becomes \(y = 0.5x + 2\). In System B, \(x - 2y = 6\) becomes \(y = 0.5x - 3\). 2. In System A, the equations are identical, so there are infinitely many solutions. In System B, the slopes match but the intercepts differ, so there is no solution. 3. The claim is incomplete. Equal slopes give no solution only when the lines have different intercepts. If the intercepts also match, the lines are identical and there are infinitely many solutions.

Answer

1. System A: \(y = 0.5x + 2\); System B: \(y = 0.5x - 3\) 2. System A has infinitely many solutions; System B has no solution. 3. Equal slopes give no solution only when the intercepts differ.
Analyze solutions of systems 35
Each graph in a) and b) shows two lines. 1. For each graph, write the corresponding system of linear equations in the form (I) \(y = m_1x + b_1\) (II) \(y = m_2x + b_2\). 2. Give the solution set of each system.
Figure for problem 532196

Hints

- How can you read the slope and \(y\)-intercept of each line from a graph? - What does the intersection of two lines represent for the solution set of a system? - What does it mean for the solution set when two distinct lines are parallel? - How can you check an equation read from a graph by substituting points on the line?

Solution

1. For graph a), line \(g_1\) crosses the \(y\)-axis at \((0, -3)\) and has slope \(2\), so its equation is \(y = 2x - 3\). Line \(g_2\) crosses the \(y\)-axis at \((0, 0)\) and has slope \(-1\), so its equation is \(y = -x\). For graph b), line \(h_1\) crosses the \(y\)-axis at \((0, 2)\) and has slope \(-0.5\), so its equation is \(y = -0.5x + 2\). Line \(h_2\) crosses the \(y\)-axis at \((0, -1)\) and has slope \(-0.5\), so its equation is \(y = -0.5x - 1\). 2. In graph a), the lines intersect at \((1, -1)\), so the solution set is \(\{(1, -1)\}\). In graph b), the lines have the same slope but different \(y\)-intercepts, so they are parallel and the solution set is \(\emptyset\).

Answer

1. Graph a): (I) \(y = 2x - 3\); (II) \(y = -x\). Graph b): (I) \(y = -0.5x + 2\); (II) \(y = -0.5x - 1\). 2. Graph a): \(\{(1, -1)\}\). Graph b): \(\emptyset\).
Analyze solutions of systems 36
Match each system, (1), (2), and (3), with graph A, B, or C. Also state the number of solutions of each system. (1) \(\begin{cases} y = -x + 2 \\ x + y = -1 \end{cases}\) (2) \(\begin{cases} y = -x + 2 \\ 2x + 2y = 4 \end{cases}\) (3) \(\begin{cases} y = -x + 2 \\ -2x + y = -1 \end{cases}\)
Figure for problem 532235

Hints

- Rewrite each equation in slope-intercept form. - Compare slopes and y-intercepts. - Identify parallel, intersecting, and coincident lines in the three graphs. - Relate each graph type to its number of solutions.

Solution

1. For system (1), rewrite the second equation as \(y=-x-1\). The lines are parallel and distinct, so the system matches graph B and has no solution. 2. For system (2), rewrite the second equation as \(y=-x+2\). The lines are identical, so the system matches graph A and has infinitely many solutions. 3. For system (3), rewrite the second equation as \(y=2x-1\). The lines intersect once at \((1,1)\), so the system matches graph C and has exactly one solution.

Answer

(1) Graph B; no solution (2) Graph A; infinitely many solutions (3) Graph C; exactly one solution
Analyze solutions of systems 37
Camille says, “A system of three lines can have three solutions, one for each pair of lines.” Use the graph of \(g\), \(h\), and \(j\) to decide whether Camille is right for this system. Give its solution and explain what must be true of a point that solves all three equations.
Figure for problem 532247

Hints

- What does it mean for an ordered pair to solve a system of equations? - Look for a point shared by every line, not merely two of them. - How many points are common to all three lines?

Solution

1. A solution of the entire system must lie on all three lines at the same time. A point where only two lines cross is not enough. 2. The three lines meet at \((1,2)\). This ordered pair lies on every line, so it satisfies all three equations. 3. All three lines have only that one common point. The system has exactly one solution, \((1,2)\); Camille's claim is wrong for this system.

Answer

Camille is not right. The system has exactly one solution, \((1,2)\), because that point lies on all three lines.
Analyze solutions of systems 38
Write an equation for the graphed line \(g\) in the form \(y=mx+b\). Then write a different but equivalent equation for a line \(h\). If \(g\) and \(h\) form a system, how many solutions are there? Describe them.
Figure for problem 533226

Hints

- Use the grid to read an intercept and two points on the line. - Can you rearrange the equation without changing which points lie on it? - What happens to a system's solutions when both equations describe the same line?

Solution

1. The line crosses the y-axis at \(-1\) and passes through \((2,2)\). Its slope is \(\frac{2-(-1)}{2}=\frac{3}{2}\), so line \(g\) has equation \(y=\frac{3}{2}x-1\). 2. Rearranging gives the equivalent equation \(3x-2y=2\) for line \(h\). 3. Both equations describe the same line. Every ordered pair on that line satisfies both equations, so there are infinitely many solutions. 4. All points on the line \(y=\frac{3}{2}x-1\) solve both equations.

Answer

Line \(g\): \(y=\frac{3}{2}x-1\). One possible equation for \(h\): \(3x-2y=2\). Infinitely many solutions: all points on \(y=\frac{3}{2}x-1\).
Analyze solutions of systems 39
Find where each pair of lines meets. Does any one ordered pair solve all three equations? Explain.
Figure for problem 533338

Hints

- Read the coordinates where each pair of lines crosses. - Are the three intersections at the same point? - Does knowing the meeting point of two lines always settle a three-line system?

Solution

1. Line \(g\) meets line \(h\) at \((2,3)\). 2. Line \(g\) meets line \(j\) at \((1,2)\), and line \(h\) meets line \(j\) at \((4,2)\). 3. These are three different points. No ordered pair lies on all three lines at the same time, so the system has no solution.

Answer

\(g\) and \(h\): \((2,3)\); \(g\) and \(j\): \((1,2)\); \(h\) and \(j\): \((4,2)\). No ordered pair solves all three equations.
Analyze solutions of systems 40
Compare the three panels. a) Read the solution of the system in graph 1. b) Explain why the system in graph 2 has no solution. c) In graph 3, line \(g\) is drawn and line \(h\) has equation \(3x-2y=-2\). Find an equation for \(g\). How many solutions does the system of \(g\) and \(h\) have? Explain.
Figure for problem 533344

Hints

- A solution is an ordered pair shared by both lines. - Compare the directions and intercepts of the lines in graph 2. - In graph 3, find the slope and y-intercept of \(g\), then rewrite the equation of \(h\) in the same form.

Solution

1. In graph 1, the lines cross at \((2,-1)\), the only common solution. 2. In graph 2, the lines have the same slope but different intercepts. They never meet, so there is no solution. 3. In graph 3, \(g\) crosses the y-axis at \(1\) and rises \(3\) units for every \(2\) units to the right, so \(g\) is \(y=\frac{3}{2}x+1\). 4. Rearrange the second equation: \(3x-2y=-2\) gives \(y=\frac{3}{2}x+1\). Both equations describe the same line, so every point on it solves the system.

Answer

a) \((2,-1)\). b) No solution; the lines are distinct and parallel. c) \(g: y=\frac{3}{2}x+1\). Infinitely many solutions: every point on that line also satisfies \(h\).
Analyze solutions of systems 41
Oak Print charges a \(\$7\) setup fee plus \(\$2\) per ticket. Elm Print charges a \(\$9\) setup fee plus \(\$3\) per ticket. Find the number of tickets that would make the prices equal. Is that number possible for an actual order? Explain.

Hints

- Write each shop's cost using the same number of tickets. - What equation means the shops charge the same amount? - Does every algebraic solution describe a possible order?

Solution

1. For \(n\) tickets, the costs are \(7+2n\) and \(9+3n\) dollars. 2. Set them equal: \(7+2n=9+3n\). Subtract \(2n\) and \(9\): \(n=-2\). 3. An order cannot contain a negative number of tickets, so the shops never charge the same for a possible order.

Answer

\(n=-2\). No: an order cannot have a negative number of tickets.
Analyze solutions of systems 42
The equation \(x+y=6\) has many solutions. Add the condition \(x-y=2\). a) Give a pair that solves \(x+y=6\) but not the system. b) Find the one pair that solves both equations. c) Explain why the first equation alone has more solutions than the system.

Hints

- Try an easy pair with sum \(6\), then test its difference. - What happens when you add the two equations? - How does the second condition restrict the possible pairs?

Solution

1. For a), \((2,4)\) satisfies \(x+y=6\), but \(2-4=-2\), not \(2\). 2. For b), add the two equations to get \(2x=8\), hence \(x=4\) and \(y=2\). 3. The first equation describes an entire line; the system keeps only the common point \((4,2)\).

Answer

a) For example, \((2,4)\). b) \((4,2)\). c) The first equation allows every point on its line; both equations are true only at their common point.
Analyze solutions of systems 43
Consider the line \(g: y = -x + 6\) and the line \(h: y = mx + 2\). a) Find \(m\) so that the intersection point of the two lines lies on the x-axis. b) Find \(m\) so that the two lines have no intersection point. c) If \(m = 1\), in which quadrant does the intersection point lie? Briefly justify your answer.

Hints

- What y-coordinate does a point on the x-axis have? - When are two distinct lines parallel? - Recall the signs of x- and y-coordinates in each quadrant.

Solution

1. For the intersection to lie on the x-axis, \(y=0\). From \(0=-x+6\), the intersection must have \(x=6\). Substitute into \(h\): \(0=6m+2\), so \(m=-\frac{1}{3}\). 2. For the lines to have no intersection, they must be distinct and parallel. Since \(g\) has slope \(-1\) and the y-intercepts are different, \(m=-1\). 3. If \(m=1\), solve \(-x+6=x+2\). Then \(4=2x\), so \(x=2\), and substitution gives \(y=4\). 4. Both coordinates are positive, so the intersection lies in Quadrant I.

Answer

a) \(m = -\frac{1}{3}\) b) \(m = -1\) c) Quadrant I
Analyze solutions of systems 44
Two lines are described by \(g: 5x + 2y = 10\) \(h: y = mx + 3\). a) Find \(m\) so that the lines are parallel and the system has no solution. b) Is there a value of \(m\) for which the system has infinitely many solutions? Justify your answer.

Hints

- Rewrite the first equation in slope-intercept form. - When do two lines have no common point? - Can changing only the slope make two different fixed intercepts equal? - What must match for two lines to have infinitely many points in common?

Solution

1. Rewrite line \(g\): \(2y=-5x+10\), so \(y=-2.5x+5\). Its slope is \(-2.5\), and its y-intercept is \(5\). 2. For the lines to be parallel, line \(h\) must have the same slope, so \(m=-2.5\). Because its y-intercept is \(3\), not \(5\), the lines are distinct and the system has no solution. 3. Infinitely many solutions would require equal slopes and equal y-intercepts. 4. The y-intercept of line \(h\) is fixed at \(3\), so no value of \(m\) can make the two lines identical.

Answer

a) \(m = -2.5\) b) No. The fixed y-intercepts, \(5\) and \(3\), are different.
Analyze solutions of systems 45
Equation (I) is \(2x + 3y = 12\). Complete equation (II), \(4x + dy = e\), to meet each condition. a) The system has the unique solution \((3, 2)\). Choose one possible pair of values for \(d\) and \(e\). b) The system has no solution. State the required conditions on \(d\) and \(e\).

Hints

- A specified solution must make both equations true. - Substitute \((3, 2)\) into the general form of equation (II). - What coefficient relationship creates distinct parallel lines?

Solution

1. The point \((3,2)\) satisfies equation (I) because \(2(3)+3(2)=12\). 2. To make it satisfy equation (II), substitute the coordinates: \(4(3)+2d=e\), so \(e=12+2d\). 3. To obtain a unique solution, equation (II) must not be a multiple of equation (I). Since doubling equation (I) gives \(4x+6y=24\), choose \(d\ne6\). For example, \(d=1\) gives \(e=14\). 4. For no solution, the variable coefficients must be proportional while the constants are not. Thus \(d=6\) and \(e\ne24\).

Answer

a) One possible choice is \(d = 1\) and \(e = 14\). In general, \(e = 12 + 2d\) with \(d \ne 6\). b) \(d = 6\) and \(e \ne 24\)
Analyze solutions of systems 46
Equation (I) is \(4x - 6y = 12\). Write a second equation (II) so that the system has: a) exactly one solution; b) no solution; c) infinitely many solutions.

Hints

- How must slopes compare for two lines to intersect once? - When are two lines distinct and parallel? - When do two equations represent the same line?

Solution

1. Rewrite equation (I) as \(y=\frac{2}{3}x-2\). 2. For exactly one solution, choose a line with a different slope, such as \(y=x\). 3. For no solution, choose a distinct parallel line, such as \(2x-3y=0\). 4. For infinitely many solutions, choose an equivalent equation, such as \(2x-3y=6\).

Answer

a) One possible equation is \(y = x\). b) One possible equation is \(2x - 3y = 0\). c) One possible equation is \(2x - 3y = 6\).
Analyze solutions of systems 47
A linear system consists of \(y = 3x - 5\) and \(y = mx + n\). Choose values of \(m\) and \(n\) so that the system has: a) no solution; b) exactly one solution; c) infinitely many solutions. Give one specific example for each case.

Hints

- When do two lines have no common point? - What happens when two lines have different slopes? - What must match for two equations to represent the same line?

Solution

1. For no solution, the lines must be distinct and parallel. Choose \(m=3\) and any \(n\ne-5\), such as \(n=0\). 2. For exactly one solution, choose a different slope, so \(m\ne3\). For example, \(m=1\) and \(n=-5\). 3. For infinitely many solutions, the equations must be identical. Thus \(m=3\) and \(n=-5\).

Answer

a) One example is \(m = 3\), \(n = 0\). b) One example is \(m = 1\), \(n = -5\). c) \(m = 3\), \(n = -5\)
Analyze solutions of systems 48
Consider the system containing parameters \(a\) and \(b\): (I) \(6x + 3y = 12\) (II) \(ax + y = b\) Find the conditions on \(a\) and \(b\) for the system to have: 1. infinitely many solutions; 2. no solution; 3. exactly one solution.

Hints

- Solve both equations for \(y\). - Compare slopes and intercepts. - Which slope condition guarantees an intersection? - What conditions produce parallel or identical lines?

Solution

1. Rewrite equation (I) as \(y = -2x + 4\), and equation (II) as \(y = -ax + b\). For infinitely many solutions, the slope and intercept must match, so \(a = 2\) and \(b = 4\). 2. For no solution, the slopes must match but the intercepts must differ, so \(a = 2\) and \(b \ne 4\). 3. For exactly one solution, the slopes must differ, so \(a \ne 2\), with any value of \(b\).

Answer

1. \(a = 2\) and \(b = 4\) 2. \(a = 2\) and \(b \ne 4\) 3. \(a \ne 2\), with any \(b\)
Analyze solutions of systems 49
Consider the system (I) \(y = 1.5x - 3\) (II) \(y = mx + 2\). a) Find \(m\) so that the lines intersect where \(x = 2\). b) Find \(m\) so that the system has no solution. Briefly justify your answer.

Hints

- A point of intersection must satisfy both equations. - First find the \(y\)-value when \(x = 2\). - What slope relationship makes two lines parallel?

Solution

1. At \(x=2\), equation (I) gives \(y=1.5(2)-3=0\). 2. Substitute \((2,0)\) into equation (II): \(0=2m+2\), so \(m=-1\). 3. For no solution, the lines must be distinct and parallel. Equation (II) must therefore have slope \(1.5\). 4. Because the y-intercepts \(-3\) and \(2\) differ, \(m=1.5\) gives no solution.

Answer

a) \(m = -1\) b) \(m = 1.5\)
Analyze solutions of systems 50
Consider the system containing the number \(a\): (I) \(3x+6y=12\) (II) \(ax+4y=8\) a) Find \(a\) so that the system has infinitely many solutions. b) Is there a value of \(a\) that makes the system have no solution? Explain. c) When \(a=1\), find the common point and explain why it is the only one without solving the system algebraically.

Hints

- Rewrite both equations as \(y=mx+b\). - Which parts of the equations change when \(a\) changes, and which stay the same? - For part c, can two different straight lines pass through the same two points?

Solution

1. Equation (I) becomes \(y=-\frac{1}{2}x+2\); equation (II) becomes \(y=-\frac{a}{4}x+2\). 2. The lines are the same when their slopes also match: \(-\frac{a}{4}=-\frac{1}{2}\), so \(a=2\). They then have infinitely many common points. 3. Both lines always cross the y-axis at \((0,2)\). Therefore, the system always has at least one solution; no value of \(a\) makes it inconsistent. 4. For \(a=1\), the slopes are \(-\frac{1}{2}\) and \(-\frac{1}{4}\), so the lines are different and cannot meet twice. Their shared y-intercept \((0,2)\) is their only intersection.

Answer

a) \(a=2\). b) No. Both lines pass through \((0,2)\) for every \(a\). c) \((0,2)\). The slopes differ, so this is the only intersection.
Analyze solutions of systems 51
Consider the system containing parameters \(a\) and \(b\): (1) \(4x + 6y = 12\) (2) \(2x + ay = b\). a) Given \(b = 5\), find \(a\) so that the system has no solution. b) Find \(a\) and \(b\) so that the system has infinitely many solutions. c) Let \(a = 1\) and \(b = 4\). Find the solution set.

Hints

- Simplify the first equation so its \(x\)-coefficient matches the second. - When do matching variable coefficients produce parallel or identical lines? - For part c, use elimination after substituting the parameter values.

Solution

1. Divide equation (1) by \(2\): \(2x+3y=6\). 2. With \(b=5\), the variable coefficients must match while the constants differ for no solution, so \(a=3\). 3. For infinitely many solutions, equation (2) must be identical to the simplified first equation, so \(a=3\) and \(b=6\). 4. With \(a=1\) and \(b=4\), the system is \(4x+6y=12\) and \(2x+y=4\). 5. Multiply the second equation by \(2\): \(4x+2y=8\). Subtract to get \(4y=4\), so \(y=1\). Then \(2x+1=4\), so \(x=1.5\).

Answer

a) \(a = 3\) b) \(a = 3\), \(b = 6\) c) The solution set is \(\{(1.5, 1)\}\).
Analyze solutions of systems 52
Two lines are given by \(g: y = 1.5x + 2\) \(h: 3x - ay = b\). a) Interpret the three possible solution cases geometrically: one solution, no solution, and infinitely many solutions. b) Find the conditions on \(a\) and \(b\) so that the lines are distinct and parallel. c) For what values of \(a\) do the lines intersect at exactly one point? What role does \(b\) play?

Hints

- Rewrite the equations in comparable forms. - Which coefficients determine whether the slopes match? - How do constants distinguish identical from parallel lines? - What happens when the slopes differ?

Solution

1. Geometrically, one solution means the lines intersect once; no solution means they are distinct and parallel; infinitely many solutions means they are the same line. 2. Rewrite line \(g\) in standard form: \(3x-2y=-4\). 3. For line \(h\) to be distinct and parallel, its variable coefficients must match those of \(g\) while the constant differs. Thus \(a=2\) and \(b\ne-4\). 4. If \(a\ne2\), the lines are not parallel and intersect once. This includes \(a=0\), when \(h\) is the vertical line \(x=\frac{b}{3}\). 5. The value of \(b\) changes the location of the intersection but not whether it exists when \(a\ne2\).

Answer

a) One solution: one intersection; no solution: distinct parallel lines; infinitely many solutions: identical lines. b) \(a = 2\) and \(b \ne -4\) c) \(a \ne 2\); \(b\) changes the intersection’s location but not whether it exists.
Analyze solutions of systems 53
Equation (I) is \(6x - 9y = 12\). Write one possible equation (II) so that the system has: a) infinitely many solutions; b) no solution; c) the unique solution \((2, 0)\). Briefly justify part b geometrically.

Hints

- When do two equations describe the same line? - How can a line remain parallel but move to a different position? - A required solution must satisfy the new equation. - Choose a new line that is not parallel to equation (I).

Solution

1. For infinitely many solutions, choose an equivalent equation, such as \(2x-3y=4\). 2. For no solution, choose a distinct parallel line, such as \(6x-9y=10\). The lines have the same slope but different y-intercepts. 3. For the unique solution \((2,0)\), choose a nonparallel line through that point, such as \(x+y=2\). 4. The point \((2,0)\) satisfies both equations, and nonparallel lines intersect only once.

Answer

a) One possible equation is \(2x - 3y = 4\). b) One possible equation is \(6x - 9y = 10\). c) One possible equation is \(x + y = 2\).
Analyze solutions of systems 54
A school booster club orders cases of apple juice and sparkling water for a school event. The first order has \(10\) cases of apple juice and \(8\) cases of sparkling water for \(\$184.00\). The second order has \(5\) cases of apple juice and \(4\) cases of sparkling water for \(\$92.00\). a) Explain without calculating prices why these two statements do not determine the price of one case of apple juice uniquely. b) A third order has \(3\) cases of apple juice and \(5\) cases of sparkling water for \(\$76.00\). Use the first and third orders to find both unit prices.

Hints

- Compare the quantities and totals in the first two orders. - A scaled copy of an equation does not create a new independent condition. - Combine one original equation with the third-order equation. - Choose substitution or elimination to solve.

Solution

1. The second order is exactly half of the first order, including the total cost. Therefore, the two equations are dependent and provide only one independent condition, so they cannot determine two unit prices uniquely. 2. Let \(a\) be the price of one case of apple juice and \(w\) the price of one case of sparkling water. 3. Divide the first-order equation by \(2\) to get \(5a+4w=92\). The third order gives \(3a+5w=76\). 4. Multiply the first equation by \(3\) and the second by \(5\): \(15a+12w=276\) and \(15a+25w=380\). 5. Subtract to get \(13w=104\), so \(w=8\). Then \(5a+32=92\), so \(a=12\).

Answer

a) The second statement is only half of the first, so it adds no independent information. b) Apple juice costs \(\$12.00\) per case, and sparkling water costs \(\$8.00\) per case.
Analyze solutions of systems 55
At the Cedar Ridge Middle School snack counter, apples cost \(\$0.50\) each and granola bars cost \(\$1.00\) each. Thandi spends exactly \(\$4.50\) and buys only these two items. 1. Write a linear equation in two variables that represents the situation. 2. Find at least three possible combinations of apples and granola bars. 3. Explain why the exact numbers of each item cannot be determined without more information. 4. Give an example of additional information that would produce a unique solution.

Hints

- Define one variable for each item count and connect each count with its unit price. - Look for nonnegative whole-number pairs that satisfy the spending condition. - Ask what kind of independent second condition would narrow the possibilities to one pair.

Solution

1. Let \(x\) be the number of apples and \(y\) the number of granola bars. The equation is \(0.5x + y = 4.5\). 2. Nonnegative integer solutions include \((1, 4)\), \((3, 3)\), \((5, 2)\), \((7, 1)\), and \((9, 0)\). 3. One equation with two unknowns is underdetermined. In this context, several nonnegative integer pairs satisfy the equation. 4. A second independent condition is needed. For example, if Thandi bought \(6\) items total, then \(x + y = 6\), and the unique solution is \((3, 3)\).

Answer

1. \(0.5x + y = 4.5\) 2. Examples: \((1, 4)\), \((3, 3)\), and \((5, 2)\) 3. One equation in two unknowns has multiple possible solutions. 4. Example: “Thandi bought \(6\) items total.”
Analyze solutions of systems 56
Consider the system (I) \(3x - 6y = 12\) (II) \(-x + 2y = -4\). 1. Determine the number of solutions. 2. Describe the positions of the corresponding lines. 3. Change only the constant in equation (II) so that the system has no solution. 4. Change one variable coefficient in equation (II) so that the system has exactly one solution.

Hints

- Scale one equation so the variable coefficients can be compared. - When do two lines share every point? - How can the constant change while the slope stays the same? - What coefficient change will make the slopes different?

Solution

1. Multiply equation (II) by \(-3\): \(3x - 6y = 12\), which is exactly equation (I). Therefore, the system has infinitely many solutions. 2. The equations represent the same line. 3. Keep the left side of equation (II) but change the constant, for example to \(-x + 2y = 0\). This creates a distinct parallel line and no solution. 4. Change a variable coefficient so the lines are not parallel, for example \(-x + 3y = -4\). Then the lines intersect once.

Answer

1. Infinitely many solutions 2. The lines are identical. 3. One example is \(-x + 2y = 0\). 4. One example is \(-x + 3y = -4\).
Analyze solutions of systems 57
Two lines both pass through \((2,3)\). Nia says this means they have infinitely many common points. Show why that is not always true: a) Give two different line equations that meet only at \((2,3)\). b) Give two different-looking equations whose graphs have every point in common and also pass through \((2,3)\). c) Explain the difference between your examples.

Hints

- Start with a simple line that passes through the given point. - What could you change to make a second line cross it at that point but not overlap it? - Can two equations look different but describe all the same points?

Solution

1. For a), take \(y=x+1\) and \(y=-x+5\). Both hold at \((2,3)\), and setting them equal gives \(x+1=-x+5\), so \(x=2\) and \(y=3\). Their different slopes ensure exactly one meeting point. 2. For b), take \(y=x+1\) and \(2y=2x+2\). Dividing the second equation by \(2\) gives the first, so the graphs are the same line and include \((2,3)\). 3. Sharing one point does not mean sharing every point. Distinct lines intersect at most once, but equivalent equations describe the same line and have infinitely many common points.

Answer

a) For example, \(y=x+1\) and \(y=-x+5\): just \((2,3)\). b) For example, \(y=x+1\) and \(2y=2x+2\): every point on the line is common. c) Having one point in common is not the same as describing exactly the same line.
Analyze solutions of systems 58
For a school play, adult tickets cost \(\$8\) and student tickets cost \(\$5\). The ticket desk reports \(20\) tickets sold for \(\$136\) in total. A sign-in sheet says \(12\) student tickets were sold. a) Use the ticket and money totals to find how many adult and student tickets were sold. b) Does the sign-in sheet agree with those totals? Show why.

Hints

- What two equations do the ticket count and money total give you? - Use those two totals to determine both ticket counts. - Test the sign-in sheet's claim against the reported money total.

Solution

1. Let \(a\) be the number of adult tickets and \(s\) the number of student tickets. The totals give \(a+s=20\) and \(8a+5s=136\). 2. Substitute \(s=20-a\): \(8a+5(20-a)=136\), so \(3a=36\), giving \(a=12\) and \(s=8\). 3. The sign-in sheet says \(12\) student tickets, which disagrees with \(8\). With \(12\) student and \(8\) adult tickets the money would be \(5\cdot12+8\cdot8=124\) dollars, not \(136\).

Answer

a) \(12\) adult tickets and \(8\) student tickets. b) No. \(12\) student tickets and \(8\) adult tickets would bring in only \(\$124\), not \(\$136\).
Analyze solutions of systems 59
Cora says these lines have no solution because they do not meet on the graph. Is she right? Find an equation for each line, then find their meeting point and explain why it is not visible.
Figure for problem 560067

Hints

- Find two exact grid points on each line. - How can you use those points to write each line's equation? - Could a meeting point lie outside the part of the plane shown?

Solution

1. Line \(g\) passes through \((0,4)\) and \((2,8)\), so its slope is \(2\) and its equation is \(y=2x+4\). 2. Line \(h\) passes through \((1,0)\) and \((3,6)\), so its slope is \(3\) and its equation is \(y=3x-3\). 3. Set the equations equal: \(2x+4=3x-3\), giving \(x=7\) and \(y=18\). 4. Cora is wrong. The system has one solution, \((7,18)\). The graph ends before that point.

Answer

No. \(g\) is \(y=2x+4\) and \(h\) is \(y=3x-3\). They meet at \((7,18)\), beyond the part of the graph shown.

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