Linear System of Equations Solver (2×2)
This calculator helps you solve a system of two linear equations with two variables (x and y). A linear system is typically represented in the form:
Equation 1: a1x + b1y = c1
Equation 2: a2x + b2y = c2
Enter Coefficients and Constants:
Understanding Linear Systems of Equations
A system of linear equations consists of two or more linear equations involving the same variables. The goal is to find values for these variables that satisfy all equations simultaneously. For a 2×2 system, we are looking for a unique pair of (x, y) coordinates that lies on both lines represented by the equations.
Types of Solutions:
- Unique Solution: This is the most common outcome, where the two lines intersect at exactly one point. The calculator will provide specific values for x and y.
- No Solution: This occurs when the two lines are parallel and distinct, meaning they never intersect. In this case, the system is inconsistent. The calculator will indicate "No Solution".
- Infinitely Many Solutions: This happens when the two equations represent the exact same line. Every point on the line is a solution. The calculator will indicate "Infinitely Many Solutions".
How This Calculator Works (Cramer's Rule):
This calculator uses Cramer's Rule, a method that employs determinants to solve systems of linear equations. For a system:
a1x + b1y = c1
a2x + b2y = c2
It calculates three determinants:
- D (Determinant of the coefficient matrix): D = a1b2 – a2b1
- Dx (Determinant for x): Dx = c1b2 – c2b1
- Dy (Determinant for y): Dy = a1c2 – a2c1
If D is not zero, then x = Dx / D and y = Dy / D. If D is zero, the system either has no solution or infinitely many solutions, depending on whether Dx and Dy are also zero.
Example Usage:
Let's solve the system:
2x + 3y = 7
4x – 1y = 1
Input the values:
- a1 = 2, b1 = 3, c1 = 7
- a2 = 4, b2 = -1, c2 = 1
Click "Solve System". The calculator will output x = 1 and y = 1.6667 (or 5/3).
Another example for "No Solution":
2x + 4y = 6
1x + 2y = 5
Input: a1=2, b1=4, c1=6, a2=1, b2=2, c2=5. The result will be "No Solution" because the lines are parallel.