3.1    INTRODUCTION 
    While solving the problems, in most cases, first we need to frame an equation. In this chapter, we learn how to frame and solve equations. There are given some methods to solve these equations. We will further study about word problems and application of simultaneous equations.
    Equation: A statement in which two algebraic expressions are equal is known as equation.

Solution (root) of a linear equation: The value of the variable which makes the two sides of the equation equal and satisfies the equation is called the solution of the equation.

    Rules for solving an equation:
        (i)     The same number is added or subtracted to both sides of an equation, the resulting equation is equivalent to the first.
        (ii)     If both sides of an equation are multiplied by the same non-zero number the resulting equation is equivalent to the first.

    Remark: Every linear equation in one variable has only one (unique) solution.
    In this chapter we shall study about system of linear equation in two variables, solution of a system of linear equations in two variables.

3.3    algebraic methods of solving a pair of linear equations

    There are four methods for solving a pair of linear equations
    (i) Substitution method    
    (ii) Elimination method    
    (iii) Cross-multiplication method
    (iv) Graphical Method


 

    3.3.2     Elimination Method
    Step–I:         Obtain the two equations
    Step–II:     First multiply both the equations by some suitable non-zero constant to make the coefficient of one variable (either x or y) numerically                                equal.
    Step–III:     Add or subtract one equation from the other, then one variable gets eliminated.
    Step–IV:     Solve the equation in one variable. 
    Step–V:     Substitute the value of x (or y) in any one of the given equations and find the value of another variable.