SOLUTION: How do you solve a 3x3 system of equations when the variables don't cancel out? For example, let's say your equations are 5x+7y=2 and 2x+9y=3. Can you multiply the first equation b

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: How do you solve a 3x3 system of equations when the variables don't cancel out? For example, let's say your equations are 5x+7y=2 and 2x+9y=3. Can you multiply the first equation b      Log On


   

Question 992040: How do you solve a 3x3 system of equations when the variables don't cancel out? For example, let's say your equations are 5x+7y=2 and 2x+9y=3. Can you multiply the first equation by 9 and the second equation by -7?
Answer by ikleyn(52778) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
.
system%285x%2B7y=2%2C%0D%0A2x%2B9y=3%29.

If you want to exclude x, you may multiply the first equation by 2 (both sides) and the second equation by (-5) and then add them.

If you want to exclude y, you may multiply the first equation by 9 (both sides) and the second equation by (-7) and then add them.