Linear equations using addition

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a system of linear equations for variables c and d. The user initially arrives at the solution c=5 and d=1, but is confused by Wolfram Alpha's output of c=35/16 and d=23/8. It is suggested that the discrepancy arises from incorrect input formatting in Wolfram Alpha, specifically regarding the second equation. The correct input should use proper brackets to avoid misinterpretation. Ultimately, the user is guided to ensure accurate equation representation for reliable results.
uperkurk
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I'm probably making a silly mistake or Wolfram Alpha is lying to me.

Question: Find the value of c and d.

3d=13-2c

\frac{3c+d}{2}=8

Rearranged, simplified and multiply each equation by 2:

6d+4c=26
d+3c=16

Now find the common multiple which in my case I will use 12:

18d+12c=78
-4d-12c=-64

Then add them and find what d is worth:

14d=14

d=1

Now when I plug this back into the equation, I will use the first one:

3(1)+2c=13
3+2(c)=13
c=5

d=1, c=5

What am I doing wrong? Sorry if this is the long winded way to do it.
 
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Your answer is correct, as you can verify by plugging ##d = 1## and ##c = 5## into the two given equations.
 
jbunniii said:
Your answer is correct, as you can verify by plugging ##d = 1## and ##c = 5## into the two given equations.

So Wolfram is lying to me it seems?

Wolfram says the answer is c=\frac{35}{16}, d=\frac{23}{8}
 
uperkurk said:
So Wolfram is lying to me it seems?

Wolfram says the answer is c=\frac{35}{16}, d=\frac{23}{8}
It seems more likely that you didn't enter the problem correctly into Wolfram Alpha.
 
I think you told Wolfram the second equation was
$$3c + \frac d 2 = 8$$
 
AlephZero said:
I think you told Wolfram the second equation was
$$3c + \frac d 2 = 8$$

Yes, looking back that is what is shows under "Input Result" How would I input the correct format?
 
uperkurk said:
Yes, looking back that is what is shows under "Input Result" How would I input the correct format?

If you meant this:
$$ \frac{3c + d}{2}$$

you should have written it as (3c + d)/2.

Also, there was some wasted effort when you multiplied the first equation by 2. You didn't need to do that.
 
uperkurk said:
Yes, looking back that is what is shows under "Input Result" How would I input the correct format?

Use correct brackets.
 
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