Solve algebraically 6a + b = 16 and 5a - 2b = 19

This is a simultanious equation. As there are two unknown variables, it is impossible to find both a and b just using one of the equations. To make it possible to work out the unknowns, we need to have just one unknown. If we multiplied the first equation by 2, we will have 12a + 2b = 32. This then means if we added both equations together the (+2b) and the (-2b) will cancel each other out and we will be left with (12a + 5a) = (32+19). 17a = 51, so a = 3. We then put a back into one of the original equations to work out b. So 6 x (3) + b = 16. So b = -2. 

Answered by Kate H. Maths tutor

5318 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

solve the simultaneous equation 2y + x = 8 and 1 + y = 2x


Given that a = 3 and b = 7 ,  What is the value of 2a + b ?


What is the size of the exterior and interior angle of a regular 13 sided polygon?


6x – 7 = 14 – x


We're here to help

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