Solve the two equations: Equation 1: 2a - 5b = 11 Equation 2: 3a + 2b = 7

Firstly, you should aim to eliminate one of the unknown values. As b is positive and negative in each equation, this would be a good value to eliminate. Both equations would have to be multiplied to cancel out one of the values. For example, if equation 1 is multiplied by 2 and eqution 2 is multiplied by 5 you get:

Equation 1: 4a-10b= 22         Equation 2: 15a+ 10b= 35

Then add the two new equations together to cancel out b and simplify, which leaves you with:

19a= 57 therefore   a= 3

Then substitute a with 3 in equation 1 or 2 to find out the value of b. For example, if substituted into equation 1 you get:

(2 x 3) -5b=11   therefore  b=-1 

Answered by Ikraan H. Maths tutor

5842 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve... 8x + 2 = 3x - 8


Expand and simplify 2y+3y(5y+3)


Solve this simultaneous equation: (1) 2x+3y=12 (2) x+4y=11


Solve x^2 + 7x + 10 = 0


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences