-x+2y = 2
x-2y = -2
Solve the second one for x x-2y = -2
x = -2+2y
Substitute (-2+2y) for x in the first one:
x-2y = -2
(-2+2y)-2y = -2
-2+2y-2y = -2
-2 = -2
This equation -2 = -2 is an identity.
When trying to solve using substitution or elimination, if we get an
identity, that means there are infinitely many solutions. The graphs are the
same line.
Answer: There are infinitely many solutions. This is called
a DEPENDENT SYSTEM.
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[Note: BTW, in other problems when trying to solve using substitution
or elimination, if we get a contradiction, such as -2 = -1, that means there
are NO solutions. The graphs are parallel lines. That would be called an
INCONSISTENT SYSTEM.]
Edwin