How do I solve simultaneous equations?

Simeltanous equations are a pair of equations that have 2 unknows. In order to solve a simelatneous equation 1 of the unknows must be eliminated. This can be done by either: 

1. Substitution - This involves putting one of the equations in the form ' y =... ' or ' x=... ' and then substiting this into the other equation to eliminate one of the terms. 

2. Elimination by additon or subtraction - This involves manipualtion of the 2 equations so when they are added/subtracted one of the terms disappears. 1 or both of teh equations may need to be multipled in order for it to work, however you must remeber to always multiply each side of the equation by the same amount for it to work. 

Once you have an equation with 1 unknown it can be solved and then the solotuion can be substituted into one of the original equations to find the other value.  

Answered by Rory B. Maths tutor

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