What does the graphical solution of a system of two independent linear equations look like?

The graphical representation of a system of two independent linear equations typically results in two distinct lines on a coordinate plane. Each line represents one of the equations in the system, and because the equations are independent, these lines will intersect at exactly one point. This intersection point corresponds to the unique solution of the system, indicating the values of the variables that satisfy both equations simultaneously.

To visualize this, consider the standard form of linear equations:

  • Equation 1: ax + by = c
  • Equation 2: dx + ey = f

When you graph these equations, you set them up on a Cartesian plane where the x-axis represents one variable and the y-axis represents the other variable. The slope and y-intercept of each line will differ, confirming their independence. Since the lines cross at a single point, this point represents the solution (x, y) that makes both equations true.

For example:

1) y = 2x + 3
2) y = -x + 1

If you graph these lines, you will see that they intersect at a unique point, which is the solution to this system.

In summary, the graphical solution to a system of two independent linear equations is typically two intersecting lines on a plane, where the intersection point represents the sole solution to the equations.

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