solve equation using integers only

We seem to be having trouble with language, today. What does "solving this" mean? Solve for 'x'? Solve for 'y'? Find simultaneous solutions for particular 'x' and 'y'? An example of what you are doing would be very beneficial.

x/2 = 3*y/5

x/2 must be an integer, so 'x' must be divisible by 2.

3 and 5 are prime, so let's ignore the 3 for a moment.

y/5 must be an integer, so 'y' must be divisible by 5

Solve for x

x = 6*y/5

Pick a 'y' that is divisible by 5.

How about y = 5?

x = 6*5/5 = 6

How about y = 0

x = 6*0/5 = 0

OK, that was fun. Now, what was the problem we were supposed to work on?
 
equations of lines in slope intercept

I am working equations of lines in slope intercept using a graph. I am to write each equation in standard form using only integers. Does this explain it?

Problem is x/2 = 3y/5
 
Re: equations of lines in slope intercept

auchey said:
I am to write each equation in standard form using only integers.
Click to expand...
THERE is the missing clue.

"Standard Form" is usually something like:

Ax + By + C = 0, where A, B, and C are integers. Or, maybe it is OK to have Ax - By, but that is of little consequence. (Notice how this does not allow such things as the square root of two.)

You just need the least common denominator and a little algebra.

2 and 5 -- The LCD is 10

x/2 = 3y/5
10*x/2 = 10*3y/5
(10/2)*x = (10/5)*3y
(5)*x = (2)*3y
5*x = 2*3y
5*x = 6y
5*x - 6y = 0

That's about it.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top