We have seen that substitution is often the preferred method when a system of equations includes a linear equation and a nonlinear equation. However, when both equations in the system have like variables of the second degree, solving them using elimination by addition is often easier than substitution. Generally, elimination is a far simpler method when the system involves only two equations in two variables (a two-by-two system), rather than a three-by-three system, as there are fewer steps. As an example, we will investigate the possible types of solutions when solving a system of equations representing a circle and an ellipse.
A General Note: Possible Types of Solutions for the Points of Intersection of a Circle and an Ellipse
Figure 6 illustrates possible solution sets for a system of equations involving a circle and an ellipse.
- No solution. The circle and ellipse do not intersect. One shape is inside the other or the circle and the ellipse are a distance away from the other.
- One solution. The circle and ellipse are tangent to each other, and intersect at exactly one point.
- Two solutions. The circle and the ellipse intersect at two points.
- Three solutions. The circle and the ellipse intersect at three points.
- Four solutions. The circle and the ellipse intersect at four points.
Example 3: Solving a System of Nonlinear Equations Representing a Circle and an Ellipse
Solve the system of nonlinear equations.
Solution
Let’s begin by multiplying equation (1) by [latex]-3,\text{}[/latex] and adding it to equation (2).
After we add the two equations together, we solve for [latex]y[/latex].
Substitute [latex]y=\pm 1[/latex] into one of the equations and solve for [latex]x[/latex].
There are four solutions: [latex]\left(5,1\right),\left(-5,1\right),\left(5,-1\right),\text{and}\left(-5,-1\right)[/latex].
Try It 3
Find the solution set for the given system of nonlinear equations.