What is the equal values method?

Answer 1

The equal values method is one of the methods used to solve systems of equations. Systems of equations are a set of equations with more than one variable. To use the equal values method, you would need 2 equations with 2 variables (say 'x' and 'y'). Not only that, but you would need both equations to have one of the variables isolated (by itself) on one side of the equal sign. Like {y=2x and y= x+4} or {x=3y and x=2y-2}. The first step in solving is to remove the isolated variables, and set the remaining expressions equal to eachother. This would look like 2x=x+4 in our first example. Solving for x would give you the x-value in the solution (x=4). To find the y-value in the solution, plug the 4 in for x (substituion) in one of the equation. So instead of y=2x, you would have y=2(4). So y=8 would be the y-value solution. The graphical use of this method is mainly to find the intersection of two lines when you have the equations in slope intercept form. This method can also be used in concext with word problems if you can write equations for the word problems. For example: Dustin makes 10 dollars per hour, and has 50 saved up. Sam makes 15 dollars per hour, and has 10 saved up. After how many hours of them working will they have the same amount of money. Dustin: y=10x+50. 'y' represents Dustin's money and 'x" represents hours worked. Sam: y=15x+10. 'y' represents Dustin's money and 'x" represents hours worked. Using the equal values method wold give you the solution!