Consider the system of equations. 2x + 3y = 8

2x + 6y = 12

What could be the first step in solving the system of equations using elimination?

You can multiply the top equation by -1 to eliminate the x variable.

And the solution is (2,4/3)  in case you need it.

Step-by-step explanation:

2x + 3y = 8

2x + 6y = 12

If you multiply the upper equation or down equation by one, you will be able to eliminate the x variable.

-1( 2x + 3y) = -1(8)     New equation:   -2x -3y  = -8.

Add the new equation you got  by multiplying the top equation by -1 to the bottom equation.

Add them:     -2x -3y = -8

                      2x + 6y = 12  

                               3y = 4  

                              y = 4/3

You can now input the value for y into the one of the equations and solve for x.

-2x - 3(4/3) = -8

-2x -4 = -8  

     +4     +4

-2x = -4

x = 2