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Algebra/Algebra-Addition method

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Expert: - 4/17/2011


Question
Please help me understand system by addition method.  Having a hard time understanding this part. I appreciate it very much.

4x^2-3y^2=-11
5x^2+2y^2=38

Answer
Rewrite the equations as 4a - 3b = -11 and 5a + 2b = 38.
Solve these two equations for a and b, then note that x = ±√a and y = ±√b.

To solve, note that the 1st equation can be changed to 4a = 3b - 11, so a = (3b-11)/4.
Put this into the 2nd equation and find b.  Once this has been done, put that back
in the 1st and solve for a.

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