Algebraic equation problem, rectangular flower bed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a system of algebraic equations related to a rectangular flower bed problem. Participants explore various methods for finding the value of x, which is necessary for calculating the area of the flower bed.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest setting up two equations in two unknowns: x + 10 = 4x - y and x + 20 = 2x + 3y, and inquire about solving for x.
  • One participant provides specific values, stating y = 6.25 and x = 1.58, but this is later challenged as incorrect.
  • Another participant proposes solving for y in the first equation and substituting it into the second equation to find x, showing their work step-by-step.
  • Some participants introduce the elimination method as an alternative approach to solve the system, detailing the steps involved in manipulating the equations.
  • There are repeated attempts to clarify and verify the correctness of the equations and the steps taken in the elimination method.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct solution, as there are multiple proposed methods and some conflicting results. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the final value of x.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion, including potential errors in the calculations presented by participants and the dependence on the accuracy of the algebraic manipulations. Some assumptions about the relationships between variables are not explicitly stated.

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Any ideas on how to begin ?
 

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You can set up two equations in two unknowns:

x + 10 = 4x - y

x + 20 = 2x + 3y

Can you solve this system for x? Do you see why we only need the value of x to find the area of the flower bed?
 
greg1313 said:
You can set up two equations in two unknowns:

x + 10 = 4x - y

x + 20 = 2x + 3y

Can you solve this system for x? Do you see why we only need the value of x to find the area of the flower bed?

Y = 6.25 ,x = 1.58
 
That's incorrect. Solve

x + 10 = 4x - y

for y then substitute that value for y into

x + 20 = 2x + 3y

and solve for x.

Please show your work.
 
greg1313 said:
That's incorrect. Solve

x + 10 = 4x - y

for y then substitute that value for y into

x + 20 = 2x + 3y

and solve for x.

Please show your work.

x + 10 = 4x - y
x + 10 -4x = - y
-3x + 10 = - y
3x - 10 = y

Now substituting that value for y,

x + 20 = 2x + (3x-10)
x + 20 = 5x - 10
-4x=-30
x = 7.5
 
x + 20 = 2x + 3(3x - 10)
 
Another method for solving the system for $x$ is elimination. So, you can start with the system Greg posted:

$$x+10=4x-y\tag{1}$$

$$x+20=2x+3y\tag{2}$$

Now, multiply (1) by 3, then add it to (2) thereby eliminating $y$ and obtaining an equation in $x$ alone. :D
 
MarkFL said:
Another method for solving the system for $x$ is elimination. So, you can start with the system Greg posted:

$$x+10=4x-y\tag{1}$$

$$x+20=2x+3y\tag{2}$$

Now, multiply (1) by 3, then add it to (2) thereby eliminating $y$ and obtaining an equation in $x$ alone. :D

$$x+10=4x-y\tag{1}$$
$$x+10-4x=-y\tag{1}$$
$$-3x+10=-y\tag{1}$$

Multiplying this equation by 3

$$-9x+3y=-30\tag{1}$$
$$x+20=2x+3y\tag{2}$$

Moving x to the left hand side of the equation,

$$-x+3y=-20\tag{2}$$

Hope the equations are correct to move on to elimination.
 
mathlearn said:
$$x+10=4x-y\tag{1}$$
$$x+10-4x=-y\tag{1}$$
$$-3x+10=-y\tag{1}$$

Multiplying this equation by 3

$$-9x+3y=-30\tag{1}$$
$$x+20=2x+3y\tag{2}$$

Moving x to the left hand side of the equation,

$$-x+3y=-20\tag{2}$$

Hope the equations are correct to move on to elimination.

No, this is what I had in mind:

Begin with:

$$x+10=4x-y\tag{1}$$

$$x+20=2x+3y\tag{2}$$

Now, multiply (1) by 3:

$$3x+30=12x-3y\tag{1}$$

$$x+20=2x+3y\tag{2}$$

then add (1) to (2) thereby eliminating $y$ and obtaining an equation in $x$ alone.

$$4x+50=14x$$

Now solve for $x$...:D
 

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