Introduction to Systems of Linear Equations: Two Variables

Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

  • Solve systems of equations by graphing.
  • Solve systems of equations by substitution.
  • Solve systems of equations by addition.
  • Identify inconsistent systems of equations containing two variables.
  • Express the solution of a system of dependent equations containing two variables.
Skateboarders at a skating rink by the beach.

Figure 1. (credit: Thomas Sørenes)

A skateboard manufacturer introduces a new line of boards. The manufacturer tracks its costs, which is the amount it spends to produce the boards, and its revenue, which is the amount it earns through sales of its boards. How can the company determine if it is making a profit with its new line? How many skateboards must be produced and sold before a profit is possible? In this section, we will consider linear equations with two variables to answer these and similar questions.