Question

a student is using the elimination method to solve the system of equations below. what is the best first step?

2x - 6y = 2
5x 4y = 28

1. multiply the first equation by 2 and the second equation by 3.
2. multiply the first and second equation by 2.
3. multiply the first equation by 4 and the second equation by 2.
4. multiply the first equation by 5 and the second equation by 6.

Answer 1

The best first step for the elimination method would be: 1. multiply the first equation by 2 and the second equation by 3.

2x - 6y = 2      /*2
5x + 4y = 28   /*3
____________
4x - 12y = 4
15x + 12y = 84
____________
4x - 12y + 15x + 12y = 4 + 84
19x = 88
x = 88/19