1

Reviewing
linear equations

Objectives
I To solve linear equations in one unknown.
I To construct linear equations.
I To use linear equations to solve problems.
I To solve simultaneous linear equations by substitution and elimination methods.
I To solve linear inequalities.
I To use and transpose formulas.

Many problems may be solved by first translating them into mathematical equations and then
solving the equations using algebraic techniques. An equation is solved by finding the value
or values of the variables that would make the statement true.
Consider the equation 2x + 11 = 3 − 2x. If x = −2, then
LHS = 2(−2) + 11 = 7 and RHS = 3 − 2(−2) = 7
The statement is true when x = −2. The solution to the equation is therefore x = −2. In this
case there is no other value of x that would give a true statement.
The equations that we deal with in this chapter are called linear equations since they are
related to the equation of a straight line.
Linear equations have either one solution (as shown in the example above), no solutions or
infinitely many solutions. The equation 2x + 3 = 2x + 4 has no solutions, since no value of x
makes the statement true. The equation 2(x + 3) = 2x + 6 has infinitely many solutions, since
it is true for all values of x.
We note that the equation x2 = 16 has exactly two solutions, x = 4 or x = −4, but this
equation is not linear.

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 2 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

1A Linear equations
A linear equation (in one unknown) is a particular type of polynomial equation in which the
variable is to the first power. The following are examples of linear equations:
z − 3 2z − 5
3x − 5 = 11, 7 − 2t = 8t − 11, + = 11
4 3
In each of these equations, the variable is to the first power.
The following are examples of non-linear polynomial equations:
x2 − x − 12 = 0 (quadratic), 2x3 − x = 0 (cubic), x4 = 16 (quartic)
In each of these equations, the highest power of the variable is not the first power. You have
met some of these in your previous study, and they are also in later chapters of this book.

Solving linear equations

It is important when setting out the solution to an equation that each step is written under the
previous one with the equals signs aligned. This careful setting out makes the algebra easy to
check. Unsystematic methods, such as guess and check, will generally be of limited use for
more complicated equations.
It is often helpful to look at how the equation has been constructed so that the steps necessary
to ‘undo’ the equation can be identified. It is most important that the steps taken to solve the
equation are done in the correct order.

Linear equations of the form ax + b = c

Many linear equations that arise in applications are of the form ax + b = c.

Example 1
Solve the equation 3x + 4 = 16 for x.
Solution Explanation
3x + 4 = 16
3x = 12 Subtract 4 from both sides.
x=4 Divide both sides by 3.
Check: Once a solution has been found it may be
LHS = 3(4) + 4 = 16 checked by substituting the value back into
both sides of the original equation to ensure
RHS = 16
that the left-hand side (LHS) equals the
∴ the solution is correct. right-hand side (RHS).

The first three equations in the above example are equivalent equations. Obtaining the second
two equations enables us to solve the first equation.

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 1A Linear equations 3

Given an equation, an equivalent equation can be formed by:

 adding or subtracting the same number on both sides of the equation
 multiplying or dividing both sides of the equation by the same non-zero number.
Importantly, two equivalent equations have the same solution. By forming suitable equivalent
equations, we solve linear equations.

Equations with the unknown on both sides

Group all the terms containing the variable on one side of the equation and the remaining
terms on the other side.

Example 2
Solve 4x + 3 = 3x − 5.
Solution Explanation
4x + 3 = 3x − 5
x + 3 = −5 Subtract 3x from both sides and then
x = −8 subtract 3 from both sides.

Check: The solution can be checked as previously

LHS = 4(−8) + 3 = −29 shown.

RHS = 3(−8) − 5 = −29

∴ the solution is correct.

Equations containing brackets

A frequently used first step is to remove brackets and then to follow the procedure for solving
an equation without brackets.

Example 3
Solve 3(2x + 5) = 27.
Solution Explanation
3(2x + 5) = 27 We note that since 27 is divisible by 3, the
6x + 15 = 27 following method is also possible:

6x = 12 3(2x + 5) = 27
x=2 2x + 5 = 9

Check: 2x = 4
x=2
LHS = 3(2 × 2 + 5) = 27
RHS = 27
∴ the solution is correct.

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 4 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

Equations containing fractions

A frequently used first step is to multiply both sides of the equation by the lowest common
multiple of the denominators of the fractions.

Example 4
x x
Solve −2= .
5 3
Solution Explanation
x x
−2= The denominators of the fractions are 3
5 3
and 5. The lowest common multiple of 3
x x and 5 is 15.
× 15 − 2 × 15 = × 15
5 3
Multiply both sides of the equation by 15.
3x − 30 = 5x
This means that each term of the LHS
−2x = 30 and the RHS of the equation is multiplied
x = −15 by 15.

−15
Check: LHS = − 2 = −3 − 2 = −5
5
−15
RHS = = −5
3
∴ the solution is correct.

Example 5
x − 3 2x − 4
Solve − = 5.
2 3
Solution Explanation
x−3 2x − 4 Remember that the line separating the
×6− ×6=5×6
2 3 numerator and the denominator (the
3(x − 3) − 2(2x − 4) = 30 vinculum) acts as brackets.
3x − 9 − 4x + 8 = 30 Multiply both sides of the equation by 6,
−x = 31 the lowest common multiple of 2 and 3.

x = −31
Check:
−31 − 3 2 × (−31) − 4
LHS = −
2 3
−34 −66
= − = −17 + 22 = 5
2 3
RHS = 5
∴ the solution is correct.

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 1A Linear equations 5

Using the TI-Nspire

 To find the solution to the linear equation,
use a Calculator application.
 Select menu > Algebra > Solve.
 Enter the equation
x − 3 2x − 4
− =5
2 3
 Press enter to obtain the solution.
Note: A template for fractions may be obtained by pressing . ctrl ÷
For more details on the use of the calculator, refer to the TI-Nspire appendix in the
Interactive Textbook.

Using the Casio ClassPad

 Go to the M screen and turn on the keyboard.
 From either the or the Math3 keyboard,
Math1
select ` and then select the fraction icon N.
 Enter the equation
x − 3 2x − 4
− =5
2 3
 Tap EXE .

Note: The default setting is to solve for the variable x.

To solve for a different variable, follow the
equation by a comma and then the variable.
For more details on the use of the calculator,
refer to the Casio ClassPad appendix in the
Interactive Textbook.

Literal equations
An equation for the variable x in which all the coefficients of x, including the constants, are
pronumerals is known as a literal equation.

Example 6
Solve ax + b = cx + d for x.
Solution Explanation
ax + b = cx + d Collect terms in x on the left-hand side and
ax − cx = d − b constants on the right-hand side.
(a − c)x = d − b Factorise the left-hand side.
d−b
x=
a−c
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 6 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

Using the TI-Nspire

 To solve the literal equation ax + b = cx + d,
use a Calculator application.
 Select menu > Algebra > Solve.
 Enter ax + b = cx + d as shown.
 Press enter to obtain the solution.

Note: Ensure a multiplication sign is placed between the letters of the expression,
otherwise the calculator will read them as a single variable rather than a product.
That is, enter a × x and not ax.

Using the Casio ClassPad

 To solve the literal equation ax + b = cx + d, first
go to the M screen and turn on the keyboard.
 Select ` from the Math1 or Math3 keyboard.
 Now select the Var keyboard. This will bring up
the variables. Enter ax + b = cx + d.
 Tap EXE . (Recall that the default setting is to solve
for the variable x.)
 To simplify the answer, tap t in the toolbar at the
top of the screen.
Note: The variables x, y and z are found on the hard
keyboard. Other variables should be entered
using the Var keyboard.
The abc keyboard is used for typing text. If
you use the abc keyboard for variables, then
you must type a × x, for example, because ax
will be treated as a single variable.

Summary 1A
 An equation is solved by finding the value or values of the variables that would make
the statement true.
 A linear equation is one in which the variable is to the first power.
 There are often several different ways to solve a linear equation. The following steps
provide some suggestions:
1 Expand brackets and, if the equation involves fractions, multiply through by the
lowest common denominator of the terms.
2 Group all of the terms containing a variable on one side of the equation and the
terms without the variable on the other side.

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 1A 1A Linear equations 7

Exercise 1A

1 Solve each of the following equations for x:

a x+3=6 b x−3=6 c 3−x=2 d x + 6 = −2
e 2 − x = −3 f 2x = 4 g 3x = 5 h −2x = 7
3x −3x −5x
i −3x = −7 j =5 k =2 l = −2
4 5 7
2 Solve each of the following literal equations for x:
x ax
a x−b=a b x+b=a c ax = b d =b e =c
a b
Example 1 3 Solve the following linear equations:
a 2y − 4 = 6 b 3t + 2 = 17 c 2y + 5 = 2 d 7x − 9 = 5
y t 1 1
e 2a − 4 = 7 f 3a + 6 = 14 g − 11 = 6 h + =
8 3 6 2
x
i +5=9 j 3 − 5y = 12 k −3x − 7 = 14 l 14 − 3y = 8
3
Example 2 4 Solve the following linear equations:
a 6x − 4 = 3x b x − 5 = 4x + 10 c 3x − 2 = 8 − 2x

5 Solve the following linear equations:

Example 3 a 2(y + 6) = 10 b 2y + 6 = 3(y − 4) c 2(x + 4) = 7x + 2
y+2
d 5(y − 3) = 2(2y + 4) e x − 6 = 2(x − 3) f =4
3
x x 3 7x + 3 9x − 8
Example 4 g + = 10 h x+4= x i =
2 3 2 2 4
2(1 − 2x) 2 4(2 − 3x) 4y − 5 2y − 1
Example 5 j − 2x = − + k − =y
3 5 3 2 6
Example 6 6 Solve the following literal equations for x:
a ax + b = 0 b cx + d = e c a(x + b) = c d ax + b = cx
x x a b ax + c
e + =1 f + =1 g ax − b = cx − d h =d
a b x x b
7 Solve for x:
b − cx a − cx 2 1 3
a + +2=0 b + =
a b x−a x−b x
Solve each of the following for x:
CAS

8
2x + 12
a 0.2x + 6 = 2.4 b 0.6(2.8 − x) = 48.6 c = 6.5
7
1
d 0.5x − 4 = 10 e (x − 10) = 6 f 6.4x + 2 = 3.2 − 4x
4
9 Solve for x:
a b a+b bx x
a + = b + =2
x+a x−b x+c 1 + bx 1 + x

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 8 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

1B Constructing linear equations

As stated earlier, many problems can be solved by translating them into mathematical
language and using an appropriate mathematical technique to find the solution. By
representing the unknown quantity in a problem with a symbol and constructing an equation
from the information, the value of the unknown can be found by solving the equation.
Before constructing the equation, each symbol and what it stands for (including the units)
should be stated. It is essential to remember that all the elements of the equation must be in
units of the same system.

Example 7
A chef uses the following rule for cooking a turkey:
‘Allow 30 minutes for each kilogram weight of turkey and then add an extra 15 minutes.’
If the chef forgot to weigh a turkey before cooking it, but knew that it had taken 3 hours to
cook, calculate how much it weighed.
Solution Explanation
Let the weight of the turkey be x kilograms. Assign a variable to the quantity that is to
Then the time taken is (30x + 15) minutes. be found. In this example, the weight of
∴ 30x + 15 = 180 the turkey is x kilograms.

30x = 165 Find, in terms of x, the time to cook the

turkey. Then form the equation. Note that
x = 5.5
3 hours is 180 minutes.
The turkey weighed 5.5 kilograms.
State the solution to the problem in words.

Example 8
Find the area of a rectangle whose perimeter is 1.08 m, if it is 8 cm longer than it is wide.
Solution Explanation
Let length = ` cm. We know that
Then width = (` − 8) cm. Perimeter = 2 × length + 2 × width
Perimeter = 2 × length + 2 × width and that the width is 8 cm less than the
= 2` + 2(` − 8) length. Let ` cm be the length. Then the
= 4` − 16 cm width is (` − 8) cm.
Perimeter = 108 cm Find the perimeter in terms of `. Find the
∴ 4` − 16 = 108 length and width, and hence find the area.
4` = 124
` = 31 cm
The length is 31 cm and the width is 23 cm.
Therefore the area is 31 × 23 = 713 cm2 .

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 1B 1B Constructing linear equations 9

Example 9
Adam normally takes 5 hours to travel between Higett and Logett. One day he increases
his speed by 4 km/h and finds the journey from Higett to Logett takes half an hour less
than the normal time. Find his normal speed.
Solution Explanation
Let x km/h be his normal speed. In problems such as this, the speed is the
The distance from Higett to Logett is average speed.
x × 5 = 5x kilometres. We note that
Adam’s new speed is (x + 4) km/h. distance = speed × time
9
Hence (x + 4) × = 5x
2
9(x + 4) = 10x
9x + 36 = 10x
36 = x
His normal speed is 36 km/h.

Summary 1B
Steps for solving a word problem with a linear equation
 Read the question carefully and write down the known information clearly.
 Identify the unknown quantity that is to be found.
 Assign a variable to this quantity.
 Form an expression in terms of x (or the variable being used) and use the other relevant
information to form the equation.
 Solve the equation.
 Write a sentence answering the initial question.

Exercise 1B

1 For each of the following, write an equation using the variable x, then solve the equation
for x:
a A number plus two is equal to six.
b A number multiplied by three is equal to ten.
c Six is added to a number multiplied by three and the result is twenty-two.
d Five is subtracted from a number multiplied by three and the result is fifteen.
e Three is added to a number. If the result of this is multiplied by six, then fifty-six is
obtained.
f Five is added to a number and the result divided by four gives twenty-three.

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 10 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations 1B

2 $48 is divided among three students, A, B and C. If B receives three times as much as A,
and C receives twice as much as A, how much does each receive?

3 The sum of two numbers is 42, and one number is twice the other. Find the two
numbers.

Example 7 4 A chef uses the following rule for cooking food on a spit: ‘Allow 20 minutes for each
kilogram weight and then add an extra 20 minutes.’ If the chef forgot to weigh the food
before cooking it but knew that it had taken 3 hours to cook, calculate how much it
weighed.

Example 8 5 Find the area of a rectangle whose perimeter is 4.8 m, if it is 0.5 m longer than it
is wide.

6 Find three consecutive whole numbers with a sum of 150.

7 Find four consecutive odd numbers with a sum of 80.

8 Two tanks contain equal amounts of water. They are connected by a pipe and 3000 litres
of water is pumped from one tank to the other. One tank then contains 6 times as much
water as the other. How many litres of water did each tank contain originally?

9 A 120-page book has p lines to a page. If the number of lines were reduced by three
on each page, the number of pages would need to be increased by 20 to give the same
amount of writing space. How many lines were there on each page originally?

Example 9 10 A rower travels upstream at 6 km/h and back to the starting place at 10 km/h. The total
journey takes 48 minutes. How far upstream did the rower go?

11 A shopkeeper buys a crate of eggs at $1.50 per dozen. He buys another crate, containing
3 dozen more than the first crate, at $2.00 per dozen. He sells them all for $2.50 a dozen
and makes $15 profit. How many dozens were there in each of the crates?

Example 9 12 Jess walked for 45 minutes at 3 km/h and then ran for half an hour at x km/h. At the end
of that time she was 6 km from the starting point. Find the value of x.

A man travels from A to B at 4 km/h and from B to A at 6 km/h. The total journey takes
CAS

13
45 minutes. Find the distance travelled.

14 A boy is 24 years younger than his father. In two years’ time the sum of their ages will
be 40. Find the present ages of father and son.

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 1C Simultaneous equations 11

1C Simultaneous equations
A linear equation that contains two unknowns, e.g. 2y + 3x = 10, does not have a single
solution. Such an equation actually expresses a relationship between pairs of numbers,
x and y, that satisfy the equation. If all possible pairs of numbers (x, y) that satisfy
the equation are represented graphically, the result is a straight line; hence the name
linear relation.
y
If the graphs of two such equations are drawn on
the same set of axes, and they are non-parallel,
the lines will intersect at one point only. Hence 4

=4
there is one pair of numbers that will satisfy 3

–y
both equations simultaneously. 2

2x
The intersection point of two straight lines can 1
–3 –2 –1 1 2 3
be found graphically; however, the accuracy x
of the solution will depend on the accuracy of 0
–1
the graphs.
–2 x+
Alternatively, the intersection point may be 2y
–3 =–
found algebraically by solving the pair of 3
(1, –2)
simultaneous equations. We shall consider two –4
techniques for solving simultaneous equations.

Example 10
Solve the equations 2x − y = 4 and x + 2y = −3.
Solution Explanation
Method 1: Substitution

2x − y = 4 (1) Using one of the two equations, express

x + 2y = −3 (2) one variable in terms of the other variable.

From equation (2), we get x = −3 − 2y.

Substitute in equation (1): Then substitute this expression into the
2(−3 − 2y) − y = 4 other equation (reducing it to an equation
in one variable, y). Solve the equation for y.
−6 − 4y − y = 4
−5y = 10
y = −2
Substitute the value of y into (2): Substitute this value for y in one of the
x + 2(−2) = −3 equations to find the other variable, x.

x=1
Check in (1): LHS = 2(1) − (−2) = 4 A check can be carried out with the other
RHS = 4 equation.

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 12 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

Method 2: Elimination
If one of the variables has the same
2x − y = 4 (1)
coefficient in the two equations, we can
x + 2y = −3 (2) eliminate that variable by subtracting one
To eliminate x, multiply equation (2) by 2 equation from the other.
and subtract the result from equation (1). It may be necessary to multiply one of
When we multiply equation (2) by 2, the the equations by a constant to make the
pair of equations becomes: coefficients of x or y the same in the two
equations.
2x − y = 4 (1)
2x + 4y = −6 (20 )
Subtract (20 ) from (1):
−5y = 10
y = −2
Now substitute for y in equation (2) to
find x, and check as in the substitution
method.

Note: This example shows that the point (1, −2) is the point of intersection of the graphs of
the two linear relations.

Using the TI-Nspire

Method 1: Using a Calculator application
Simultaneous linear equations can be solved in a
Calculator application.

 Use > Algebra > Solve System of

menu
> Solve System of Linear Equations.
Equations
 Complete the pop-up screen.

 Enter the equations as shown to give the

solution to the simultaneous equations
2x − y = 4 and x + 2y = −3.
 Hence the solution is x = 1 and y = −2.

Note: The solution can also be found with

solve(2x − y = 4 and x + 2y = −3, x, y).

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 1C Simultaneous equations 13

Method 2: Using a Graphs application

Simultaneous linear equations can also be solved
graphically in a Graphs application.
Entering the equations:
 The equations can be entered directly in the
form a · x + b · y = c using menu > Graph
Entry/Edit > Relation.
 Enter the equations as shown.
Note: Use H to enter the second equation.
If the entry line is not visible, press tab or double click in an open area. Pressing
enter will hide the entry line.

Equations of the form a · x + b · y = c can also be entered using menu > Graph
Entry/Edit > Equation Templates > Line > Line Standard a · x + b · y = c.

Finding the intersection point:

 Use > Geometry > Points & Lines > Intersection Point(s).
menu

 Use the touchpad to move the cursor to select each of the two graphs.

 The intersection point’s coordinates will appear on the screen. Press esc to exit the
Intersection Point(s) tool.
Note: Alternatively, you can find the intersection point using menu > Analyze Graph >
Intersection.

Using the Casio ClassPad

To solve the simultaneous equations algebraically:
 Go to the M screen and turn on the keyboard.
 Open the keyboard and select the simultaneous
Math1
equations icon ~.
 Enter the two equations 2x − y = 4 and x + 2y = −3 into
the two lines.
 Type x, y in the bottom-right square to indicate the
variables.
 Tap EXE .

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 14 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

The simultaneous equations can also be solved graphically:

 Tap on the graph icon $ to display the graph window.
 Using your stylus, highlight the first equation 2x − y = 4
and drag it down into the graph window. Lift the stylus off
the screen for the graph to appear.
 Repeat by highlighting the second equation x + 2y = −3
and dragging it down into the graph window. Lift the
stylus off the screen for the second graph to appear.

 To find the solution, tap into the graph window to select it,
and then select Analysis > G-Solve > Intersection.

The geometry of simultaneous equations

Two distinct straight lines are either parallel or meet at a point.

There are three cases for a system of two linear equations with two variables.

Example Solutions Geometry

Case 1 2x + y = 5 Unique solution: Two lines meeting at a point

x−y=4 x = 3, y = −1

Case 2 2x + y = 5 No solutions Distinct parallel lines

2x + y = 7

Case 3 2x + y = 5 Infinitely many solutions Two copies of the same line

4x + 2y = 10

This is further discussed in Chapter 2.

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 1C 1C Simultaneous equations 15

Summary 1C
We have two methods for solving simultaneous linear equations in two variables by hand.
1 Substitution
 Make one of the variables the subject in one of the equations.
 Substitute for that variable in the other equation.
2 Elimination
 Choose one of the two variables to eliminate.
 Obtain the same or opposite coefficients for this variable in the two equations.
To do this, multiply both sides of one or both equations by a number.
 Add or subtract the two equations to eliminate the chosen variable.

Exercise 1C

1 Solve each of the following pairs of simultaneous equations by the substitution method:
a y = 2x + 1 b y = 5x − 4 c y = 2 − 3x
y = 3x + 2 y = 3x + 6 y = 5x + 10

d y − 4 = 3x e y − 4x = 3 f y − 4x = 6
y − 5x + 6 = 0 2y − 5x + 6 = 0 2y − 3x = 4

2 Solve each of the following pairs of simultaneous equations by the elimination method:
a x+y=6 b y−x=5 c x − 2y = 6
x − y = 10 x+y=3 x + 6y = 10

Example 10 3 Solve each of the following pairs of simultaneous linear equations by either the
substitution or the elimination method:
a 2x − 3y = 7 b 2x − 5y = 10 c 2m − 1 = n
y = 5 − 3x 4x + 3y = 7 2n + m = 8

d 7x − 6y = 20 e 3s − 1 = t f 4x − 3y = 1
3x + 4y = 2 5s + 2t = 20 4y − 5x = 2

4 For each of the following pairs of simultaneous linear equations, state whether there is
one, none or infinitely many solutions:
a 3x + y = 6 b 3x + y = 6 c 3x + y = 6 d 3x − y = 6
6x + 2y = 7 6x + 2y = 12 6x − 2y = 7 6x + 2y = 7

Solve each of the following pairs of simultaneous linear equations:

CAS

5
a 15x − 4y = 6 b 2p + 5q = −3 c 2x − 4y = −12
9x − 2y = 5 7p − 2q = 9 2y + 3x − 2 = 0

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 16 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

1D Constructing simultaneous linear equations

Problems involving two unknowns can often be solved by using simultaneous equations with
two variables. The following examples show how this may be done.

Example 11
The sum of two numbers is 24 and their difference is 96. Find the two numbers.
Solution Explanation
Let x and y be the two numbers. Then The problem can also be solved by
x + y = 24 (1) eliminating x. Subtracting (2) from (1)
gives 2y = −72 and hence y = −36.
x − y = 96 (2)
The problem can also be solved by
Add equations (1) and (2):
substitution. From (1), we have y = 24 − x.
2x = 120 Substitute in (2).
x = 60 The values found for x and y have to make
Substitute in equation (1): each of the equations true. The equation
which has not been used in the final
60 + y = 24
substitution is the one to use for the check.
y = −36
The two numbers are 60 and −36.
Check in (2): 60 − (−36) = 96

Example 12
3 kg of jam and 2 kg of butter cost $29, and 6 kg of jam and 3 kg of butter cost $54.
Find the cost per kilogram of jam and butter.
Solution Explanation
Let the cost of 1 kg of jam be x dollars and The unknowns are the cost per kilogram of
the cost of 1 kg of butter be y dollars. jam and the cost per kilogram of butter.
Then 3x + 2y = 29 (1) Three kilograms of jam and two kilograms
and 6x + 3y = 54 (2) of butter cost $29.
Multiply (1) by 2: 6x + 4y = 58 (10 ) Six kilograms of jam and three kilograms
Subtract (10 ) from (2): −y = −4 of butter cost $54.
y=4 Check in the original problem:
Substitute in (2): 6x + 3(4) = 54
3 kg of jam = $21 and 2 kg of butter = $8
6x = 42 Total = $29
x=7
6 kg of jam = $42 and 3 kg of butter = $12
Jam costs $7 per kg and butter $4 per kg. Total = $54

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 1D 1D Constructing simultaneous linear equations 17

Summary 1D
Steps for solving a word problem with simultaneous linear equations
 Read the question carefully and write down the known information clearly.
 Identify the two unknown quantities that are to be found.
 Assign variables to these two quantities.
 Form expressions in terms of x and y (or other suitable variables) and use the other
relevant information to form the two equations.
 Solve the system of equations.
 Write a sentence answering the initial question.

Skill-
sheet Exercise 1D

1 Find two numbers whose sum is 138 and whose difference is 88.

2 Find two numbers whose sum is 36 and whose difference is 9.

3 Six stools and four chairs cost $58, while five stools and two chairs cost $35.
a How much do ten stools and four chairs cost?
b How much do four stools cost?
c How much does one stool cost?

4 A belt and a wallet cost $42, while seven belts and four wallets cost $213.
a How much do four belts and four wallets cost?
b How much do three belts cost?
c How much does one belt cost?

Use simultaneous equations to solve the following.

Example 11 5 Find a pair of numbers whose sum is 45 and whose difference is 11.

6 In four years’ time a mother will be three times as old as her son. Four years ago she
was five times as old as her son. Find their present ages.

7 A party was organised for thirty people at which they could have either a hamburger or
a pizza. If there were five times as many hamburgers as pizzas, calculate the number
of each.

8 Two children had 110 marbles between them. After one child had lost half her marbles
and the other had lost 20 they had an equal number. How many marbles did each child
start with and how many did they finish with?

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 18 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations 1D

9 One hundred and fifty tickets were sold for a basketball match and $560 was the total
amount collected. Adult tickets were sold at $4.00 each and child tickets were sold at
$1.50 each. How many adult tickets and how many child tickets were sold?

10 The sum of the numerator and denominator of a fraction expressed in simplest form
is 17. If 3 is added to the numerator, the value of the fraction will be 1. What is the
fraction?

11 Linda thinks of a two-digit number. The sum of the digits is 8. If she reverses the digits,
the new number is 36 greater than her original number. What was Linda’s original
number?

12 Tickets to a musical cost $30 for adults and $12 for children. At one particular
performance 960 people attended and $19 080 was collected in ticket sales. Find the
number of adults and the number of children who attended the performance.

13 An investor received $1400 interest per annum from a sum of money, with part of it
invested at 10% and the remainder at 7% simple interest. This investor found that if
she interchanged the amounts she had invested she could increase her return by $90 per
annum. Calculate the total amount invested.

Example 12 14 A shopkeeper sold his entire stock of shirts and ties in a sale for $10 000. The shirts
were priced at 3 for $100 and the ties $20 each. If he had sold only half the shirts and
two-thirds of the ties he would have received $6000. How many of each did he sell in
the sale?

15 A tent manufacturer produces two models, the Outback and the Bush Walker. From
earlier sales records, it is known that 20% more of the Outback model is sold than the
Bush Walker. A profit of $200 is made on each Outback sold, but $350 is made on each
Bush Walker. If during the next year a profit of $177 000 is planned, how many of each
model must be sold?

Oz Jeans has factories in Mydney and Selbourne. At the Mydney factory, fixed costs
CAS
16
are $28 000 per month and the cost of producing each pair of jeans is $30. At the
Selbourne factory, fixed costs are $35 200 per month and the cost of producing each
pair of jeans is $24. During the next month Oz Jeans must manufacture 6000 pairs of
jeans. Calculate the production order for each factory, if the total manufacturing costs
for each factory are to be the same.

17 A tea wholesaler blends together three types of tea that normally sell for $10, $11 and
$12 per kilogram so as to obtain 100 kilograms of tea worth $11.20 per kilogram. If the
same amounts of the two higher priced teas are used, calculate how much of each type
must be used in the blend.

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 1E Solving linear inequalities 19

1E Solving linear inequalities

An inequality is a mathematical statement that contains an inequality symbol rather than an
equals sign: for example, 2x + 1 < 4. When you solve the inequality 2x + 1 < 4, you answer
the question:
‘Which numbers x satisfy the property that 2x + 1 is less than 4?’
You will find that your answers can be described using a number line. This is a good way to
represent the solution, as there are infinitely many numbers that satisfy an inequality such as
2x + 1 < 4. For example:
1
2(1) + 1 = 3 < 4, 2(0) + 1 = 1 < 4, 2 + 1 = 2 < 4, 2(−1) + 1 = −1 < 4
2
To solve linear inequalities, proceed exactly as for equations with the following exception:
 When multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative number, the ‘direction’ of the
inequality symbol is reversed.

Example 13
Solve the inequality 2x + 1 < 4.
Solution Explanation
2x + 1 < 4
2x < 3 Subtract 1 from both sides.
3
x< Divide both sides by 2.
2

The solution can be represented on a real number line.

–2 –1 0 1 3 2
2

Note: In a number-line diagram, the ‘endpoint’ of an interval is indicated with a closed circle
if the point is included and with an open circle if it is not.

Example 14
Solve the inequality 3 − 2x ≤ 4.
Solution Explanation
3 − 2x ≤ 4
−2x ≤ 1 Subtract 3 from both sides.
1
x≥− Divide both sides by −2. Note that the inequality
2
symbol is reversed.

–2 –1– 1 0 1 2
2

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 20 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

Example 15
2x + 3 3 − 4x
Solve the inequality > + 2.
5 3
Solution Explanation
2x + 3 3 − 4x
> +2 Multiply both sides by 15, the lowest
5 3
common denominator of 5 and 3.
3(2x + 3) > 5(3 − 4x) + 30

3(2x + 3) − 5(3 − 4x) > 30 Collect the terms containing x on the

6x + 9 − 15 + 20x > 30 left-hand side of the inequality.
26x − 6 > 30
36
x>
26
18
∴ x>
13

Using the TI-Nspire

The inequality can be solved in a Calculator
application.
 Choose solve( ) from the Algebra menu to
give the solution to
2x + 3 3 − 4x
> +2
5 3
Note: For the inequality signs template, press ctrl = .

Using the Casio ClassPad

To solve the inequality:
 Go to the M screen and turn on the keyboard.
 Select ` from the Math3 keyboard.
 Enter the inequality
2x + 3 3 − 4x
> +2
5 3
Note: The fraction icon N and the inequality
signs (<, >, ≤, ≥) are also found in the
Math3 keyboard.

 Tap EXE . (Recall that the default setting is to solve

for the variable x.)

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 1E 1E Solving linear inequalities 21

Summary 1E
 We can add or subtract the same number on both sides of an inequality, and the
resulting inequality is equivalent to the original.
 We can multiply or divide both sides of an inequality by a positive number, and the
resulting inequality is equivalent to the original.
 If we multiply or divide both sides of an inequality by a negative number, then we must
reverse the inequality sign so that the resulting inequality is equivalent.

Skill-
sheet Exercise 1E

Example 13 1 Solve each of the following inequalities for x:

Example 14 a x+3<4 b x−5>8 c 2x ≥ 6
x
d ≤4 e −x ≥ 6 f −2x < −6
3
−3x
g 6 − 2x > 10 h ≤6 i 4x − 4 ≤ 2
4
Example 14 2 Solve for x in each of the following and show the solutions on a real number line:
Example 15 1
a 4x + 3 < 11 b 3x + 5 < x + 3 c (x + 1) − x > 1
2
1 2 3x − 1 2x + 3
d (x + 3) ≥ 1 e (2x − 5) < 2 f − < −2
6 3 4 2
4x − 3 3x − 3 1 − 7x 5x − 2 2 − x
g − <3 h ≥ 10 i − > −1
2 3 −2 3 3

3 a For which real numbers x is 2x + 1 a positive number?

b For which real numbers x is 100 − 50x a positive number?
c For which real numbers x is 100 + 20x a positive number?

4 In a certain country it costs $1 to send a letter weighing less than 20 g. A sheet of paper
weighs 3 g. Write a suitable inequality and hence state the maximum number of pages
that can be sent for $1. (Ignore the weight of the envelope in this question.)

5 A student receives marks of 66 and 72 on two tests. What is the lowest mark she can
obtain on a third test to have an average for the three tests greater than or equal to 75?

Solve each of the following inequalities for x:

CAS

6
3x + 2 5x 3x + 2 5x
a + ≥8 b − ≥ −8
3 2 3 2
3ax + 2 5x 5 3ax + 2 5ax
c − ≥ −8 given that a > d − ≥ −8 given that a > 0
3 2 2 3 2

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 22 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

1F Using and transposing formulas

An equation containing symbols that states a relationship between two or more quantities
is called a formula. An example of a formula is A = `w (area = length × width). The value
of A, called the subject of the formula, can be found by substituting in given values of `
and w.

Example 16
Find the area of a rectangle with length (`) 10 cm and width (w) 4 cm.
Solution Explanation
A = `w
A = 10 × 4 Substitute ` = 10 and w = 4.
A = 40 cm2

Sometimes we wish to rewrite a formula to make a different symbol the subject of the
formula. This process is called transposing the formula. The techniques for transposing
formulas include those used for solving linear equations detailed in Section 1A.

Example 17
Transpose the formula v = u + at to make a the subject.
Solution Explanation
v = u + at
v − u = at Subtract u from both sides.
v−u
=a Divide both sides by t.
t

If we wish to evaluate an unknown that is not the subject of the formula, we can either
substitute the given values for the other variables and then solve the resulting equation, or we
can first transpose the formula and then substitute the given values.

Example 18
Evaluate p if 2(p + q) − r = z, and q = 2, r = −3 and z = 11.
Solution Explanation
Method 1: Substitute then solve

2(p + 2) − (−3) = 11 First substitute q = 2, r = −3 and z = 11.

2p + 4 + 3 = 11 Then solve for p.
2p = 4
p=2

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 1F Using and transposing formulas 23

Method 2: Transpose then substitute

2(p + q) − r = z First solve for p.

2(p + q) = z + r
z+r
p+q=
2
z+r
p= −q
2
11 + (−3)
∴ p= −2 Substitute q = 2, r = −3 and z = 11.
2
p=2

Example 19
A path x metres wide surrounds a rectangular lawn. The lawn is ` metres long and
b metres wide. The total area of the path is A m2 .
a Find A in terms of `, b and x.
b Find b in terms of `, A and x.
c Find the value of b if ` = 6, A = 72 and x = 1.5.

Solution
a b + 2x m

bm + 2x m
m

The area of the path is

A = (b + 2x)(` + 2x) − b`
= b` + 2x` + 2xb + 4x2 − b`

∴ A = 2x` + 2xb + 4x2

b A − (2x` + 4x2 ) = 2xb c Substitute the given values into the

Therefore expression for b:
2
A − (2x` + 4x ) A − (2x` + 4x2 )
b= b=
2x 2x


72 − 2(1.5)(6) + 4(1.5)2
=
2(1.5)
72 − (18 + 9)
=
3
∴ b = 15

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 24 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

Example 20
For each of the following, make c the subject of the formula:
√ 1 1 1
a e= 3c − 7a b − =
a b c−2

Solution
√ 1 1 1
a e= 3c − 7a b − =
a b c−2
Square both sides of the equation: Establish common denominator on the
e2 = 3c − 7a left-hand side of the equation:
b−a 1
Therefore =
ab c−2
3c = e2 + 7a Take the reciprocal of both sides:
2
e + 7a ab
c= =c−2
3 b−a
ab
Therefore c = +2
b−a

Using the TI-Nspire

Literal equations can be solved for a given
variable in a Calculator application.
 Use solve( ) from the Algebra menu to make c
the subject of the formula
1 1 1
− =
a b c−2

Using the Casio ClassPad

To solve a literal equation for a given variable:
 Go to the M screen and turn on the keyboard.
 Select ` from the Math1 or Math3 keyboard.
 Enter the equation
1 1 1
− =
a b c−2
 To solve for c, follow the equation by ‘, c’.

Note: Select the variables from the Var keyboard.

The comma is also found in the Var keyboard.
 Tap .
EXE

 To produce a neater answer, copy the solution,

paste it into the next line, highlight it and then use
Interactive > Transformation > expand.

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 1F 1F Using and transposing formulas 25

Summary 1F
 A formula relates different quantities: for example, the formula A = πr2 relates the
radius r with the area A of the circle.
 The variable on the left is called the subject of the formula: for example, in the formula
A = πr2 , the subject is A.
 To calculate the value of a variable which is not the subject of a formula:
Method 1 Substitute the values for the known variables, then solve the resulting
equation for the unknown variable.
Method 2 Rearrange to make the required variable the subject, then substitute values.

Skill-
sheet Exercise 1F

1 For each of the following, find the value of the letter in parentheses:
a c = ab, a = 6, b = 3 (c) b r = p + q, p = 12, q = −3 (r)
c c = ab, a = 6, c = 18 (b) d r = p + q, p = 15, r = −3 (q)
√ √
e c = a, a = 9 (c) f c= a, c = 9 (a)
u u
g p = , u = 10, v = 2 (p) h p = , p = 10, v = 2 (u)
v v
2 For each of the following, construct a formula using the given symbols:
a S , the sum of three numbers a, b and c
b P, the product of two numbers x and y
c the cost, $C, of five books which each cost $p
d the total cost, $T , of d chairs which cost $p each and c tables which cost $q each
e the time, T , in minutes, of a train journey that takes a hours and b minutes

Example 16 3 Find the values of the following:

a E = IR, when I = 5 and R = 3 b C = pd, when p = 3.14 and d = 10
RT E
c P= , when R = 60, T = 150 and V = 9 d I= , when E = 240 and R = 20
V R
e A = πr`, when π = 3.14, r = 5 and ` = 20 f S = 90(2n − 4), when n = 6

Example 17 4 For each of the following, make the symbol indicated the subject of the formula:
a PV = c; V b F = ma; a c I = Prt; P
2R
d w = H + Cr; r e S = P(1 + rt); t f V= ; r
R−r
Example 18 5 Find the value of the unknown symbol in each of the following:
T +2
a D= , when D = 10, P = 5
P
b A = 21 bh, when A = 40, h = 10
c V = 13 πr2 h, when π = 3.14, V = 100, r = 5
d A = 12 h(a + b), when A = 50, h = 5, a = 10

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 26 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations 1F

6 The diagram represents the brick wall of a bm bm bm

dwelling with three windows. Each of the
windows is h m high and w m wide. Other
dimensions are as shown.
am am am am
a Find the length of the wall.
b Find the height of the wall.
bm bm bm
c Find the total area of the three windows.
d Find the total area of brickwork.

7 A lampshade has a metal frame consisting of two circular hoops of

radii p cm and q cm joined by four straight struts of length h cm.
The total length of metal is T cm.
a i Find an expression for T in terms of p, q and h.
ii Find T when p = 20, q = 24 and h = 28.
b The area of the material covering the frame is A cm2 , where
A = πh(p + q). Find an expression for p in terms of A, h, q and π.

8 Find the value of the unknown symbol in each of the following:

T−M a a
a P= , P = 6, T = 8, M = 4 b H = + , H = 5 and a = 6
D 3 b
90(2n − 4) r r
c a= ,a=6 d R = + , a = 2 and R = 4
n a 3
Example 19 9 Right-angled triangles XYZ and ABC are B
similar.
XY YZ ZX c cm Y
= = =k X Z
AB BC CA
A C
If AB = c cm and AC = b cm, find: b cm
a the area, D cm2 , of the shaded region in terms of c, b and k
b k in terms of D, b and c
c the value of k if D = 2, b = 3 and c = 4.

10 Two rectangles each with dimensions

c cm × b cm are used to form a cross as shown.
b b cm b cm
The arms of the cross are all of equal length.
a Find the perimeter, P cm, of the cross in terms
of b and c. c c c cm
2
b Find the area, A cm , of the cross in terms of b and c.
c Find b in terms of A and c.

Example 20 11 For each of the following, make the symbol in brackets the subject of the formula:
√ a+x b−y
a a = a + 2b (b) b = (x)
a−x b+y
r
p
2
x v2
c px = 3q − r (r) = 1 − 2 (v)
CAS

d
y u
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 Chapter 1 review 27

Review
Chapter summary

 A linear equation is one in which the variable is to the first power.

 It is often helpful to look at how the equation has been constructed so that the steps
Assign-
ment necessary to ‘undo’ the equation can be identified. It is most important that the steps taken
to solve the equation are done in the correct order.
Nrich
 An equation for the variable x in which all the coefficients of x, including the constants,
are pronumerals is known as a literal equation: for example, ax + b = c.
 The two methods for solving simultaneous linear equations are substitution and
elimination.
 An inequality is a mathematical statement that contains an inequality symbol rather than
an equals sign: for example, 2x + 1 < 4.
 To solve linear inequalities, proceed exactly as for equations except that, when multiplying
or dividing both sides by a negative number, the ‘direction’ of the inequality symbol is
reversed.
 An equation containing symbols that states a relationship between two or more quantities
is called a formula. An example of a formula is A = `w (area = length × width). The
subject of this formula is A.
 If we wish to evaluate an unknown that is not the subject of the formula, we can either
substitute the given values for the other variables and then solve the resulting equation, or
we can first transpose the formula and then substitute the given values.

Technology-free questions

1 Solve each of the following equations for x:

a 2x + 6 = 8 b 3 − 2x = 6 c 2x + 5 = 3 − x
3−x x 13x
d =6 e =4 f − 1 = 10
5 3 4
3x + 2 3 − x
g 3(2x + 1) = 5(1 − 2x) h + =5
5 2
2 Solve each of the following for t:
at + b
a a−t =b b =d c a(t − c) = d
c
a−t at + b 1
d =c e =1 f =d
b−t ct − b at + c
3 Solve each of the following inequalities for x:
3 − 2x
a 2 − 3x > 0 b ≥ 60
5
3 − 2x x − 7
c 3(58x − 24) + 10 < 70 d − ≤2
5 6
4 Make x the subject of the formula z = 12 x − 3t. Find x when z = 4 and t = −3.
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Review 28 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

5 A number d is equal to the square of a number e plus twice a number f .

a Find a formula for d in terms of e and f .
b Make f the subject of the formula.
c Find f when d = 10 and e = 3.

6 The surface area of a sphere of radius r is given by the formula A = 4πr2 . Calculate the
surface area of a sphere of radius 10 cm. Give your answer in terms of π.

7 The volume of metal in a tube is given by the formula V = π`[r2 − (r − t)2 ], where ` is
the length of the tube, r is the radius of the outside surface and t is the thickness of the
material. Find V when:
a ` = 100, r = 5 and t = 0.2 b ` = 50, r = 10 and t = 0.5

8 For each of the following, make the variable in brackets the subject of the formula:
a A = πrs (r) b T = P(1 + rw) (w)
r
n− p
c v= (r) d ac = b2 + bx (x)
r
u + v
9 Let s = t.
2
a Find the value of s if u = 10, v = 20 and t = 5.
b Find the value of t if u = 10, v = 20 and s = 120.

10 The volume, V cm3 , of a cylinder is given by V = πr2 h, where r cm is the radius and
h cm is the height. Find the radius of the cylinder if the volume of the cylinder is
500π cm3 and the height is 10 cm.

11 A rope of length 205 m is cut into 10 pieces of one length and 5 pieces of another
length. The total length of three of the first 10 lengths exceeds that of two of the second
length by 2 m. Find the lengths of the pieces.
m 1
12 If I add one to the numerator of a fraction it simplifies to . If I subtract one from the
n 5
1 m
denominator it simplifies to . Find the fraction .
7 n
13 Mr Adonis earns $7200 more than Mr Apollo, and Ms Aphrodite earns $4000 less than
Mr Apollo. If the total of the three incomes is $303 200, find the income of each person.

14 Solve each of the following pairs of simultaneous equations for a and b:

a 4a − b = 11 b a = 2b + 11
3a + 2b = 6 4a − 3b = 11

15 A motorist travelled a total distance of 424 km, and had an average speed of 80 km/h on
highways and 24 km/h while passing through towns. If the journey took six hours, find
how long the motorist spent travelling on highways.

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 Chapter 1 review 29

Review
Multiple-choice questions

1 The solution of the linear equation 3x − 7 = 11 is

4 11 3
A B C − D 6 E −6
3 3 4
x 1
2 If + = 2 then x =
3 3
1 2 7
A B C D 5 E 7
3 3 3
3 The solution of the equation x − 8 = 3x − 16 is
8 11
A x=− B x= C x=4 D x=2 E x = −2
3 3
4 The statement that 7 is 11 times the result of subtracting 2 from x can be written as
A 7 = 11(x − 2) B 11x − 2 = 7 C 7 = 11(x + 2)
11 7
D =7 E −2= x
x−2 11
5 The solution of the simultaneous equations 2x − y = 10 and x + 2y = 0 is
A x = −2 and y = 3 B x = 2 and y = −3 C x = 4 and y = −2
D x = 6 and y = 2 E x = 1 and y = −8

6 I bought x books for $a each and y magazines for $b each. The average price paid
per item, in dollars, is
x+y a+b xa + yb y+x a b
A B C D E +
a+b y+x y+x xa + yb x y
x + 1 2x − 1
7 The solution of the equation − = x is
4 6
8 5 1
A x= B x= C x=1 D x=− E x = −1
5 13 5
72 + 15z
The values of z that satisfy the inequality > 4 are
CAS

8
3
A z>4 B z > −4 C z = −4 D z<4 E z < −4

hw + k
9 If A = then
w
k ht + k A − 2k
A w= B w= C w=
A−h A 2h
3Ah 2
D w= −k E w = h(A + k)
2 3
10 Bronwyn walks one lap of an oval at 2.5 km/h and then jogs another eight laps of the
oval at 5 km/h. If it takes her 30 minutes in total, how long in metres is each lap?
A 200 m B 250 m C 300 m D 350 m E 400 m

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Review 30 Chapter 1: Reviewing linear equations

11 Which of the following equations has no solutions?

A 3x + 6 = 2x + 4 B 2(x + 3) = 2x + 6 C 3x − 4 = 5 − x
D 3x + 6 = 2x + 6 E 2x + 4 = 2x + 6

12 Which of the following equations is true for all values of x?

A 4x − 6 = 2x + 4 B 5(x + 3) = 5x + 15 C 3x − 4 = 10 − x
D 7x + 6 = −2x + 6 E 2x + 4 = 2x + 6

Extended-response questions

1 The formula for converting degrees Celsius, C, to degrees Fahrenheit, F, is

9
F = C + 32.
5
a Convert 30◦ F to Celsius. b Convert 30◦ C to Fahrenheit.
c If x◦ C = x◦ F find x. d If (x + 10)◦ C = x◦ F find x.
e If 2x◦ C = x◦ F find the value of x. f If k◦ F = (−3k)◦ C find k.

1 1 2
2 For a spherical mirror of radius r cm, + = , where u cm is the distance from
v u r
the mirror to the object and v cm is the distance from the mirror to the image. The
v−r
magnification is given by m = .
r−u
a Find r in terms of v and u from the first formula.
b Find m in terms of v and u only.

3 The diagram shows a section of wire wm

mesh w metres in width and ` metres in
length.
m
a Find an expression in terms of w
and ` for the total length of wire
required for the mesh.
b i If w = 3`, find an expression in terms of w for the total length of wire required.
ii If the length of wire used is 100 m, find the value of w and the value of `.
c The total length of wire, L m, required for another type of rectangular mesh of
dimensions x m by y m, is given by the formula L = 6x + 8y.
i Find y in terms of x and L.
ii Find y if L = 200 and x = 4.
d A third type of mesh can also be used to cover a rectangular region of dimensions
x m by y m. In this case, the type of mesh introduced in part c requires 100 m of
wire and so 6x + 8y = 100. This third type of mesh requires 80 m and this gives the
equation 3x + 2y = 40. Find the values of x and y.

ISBN 978-1-009-11045-7 © Michael Evans et al 2022 Cambridge University Press

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 Chapter 1 review 31

Review
4 Tom leaves town A and travels towards town B at a constant speed of u km/h. At the
same time, Julie leaves town B and travels towards town A at a constant speed of
v km/h. Town B is d km from town A.
a How far has each travelled after t hours?
b By considering that the sum of their distances travelled must be d km when they
meet, find:
i the time it takes for them to meet
ii their distance from town A when they meet.
c If u = 30, v = 50 and d = 100, find the time it takes for them to meet and their
distance from town A.

5 Xiu travels from town A to town B at u km/h and then returns at v km/h. Town A is
d km from town B.
a Find the average speed at which Xiu travels for the complete journey, in terms of u
and v. Remember that
total distance travelled
average speed =
total time taken
b If it takes T hours to travel from A to B, find the time taken:
i for the return trip from B to A, in terms of T , u and v
ii for the entire trip, in terms of T , u and v.

6 A man on a bicycle rides one-third of the way from town A to town B at a speed a km/h
and the remainder of the way at 2b km/h.
a If the distance between the two towns is 9 km, find the time taken to ride from A
to B.
If the man had travelled at a uniform rate of 3c km/h, he could have ridden from A to B
and back again in the same time.
2 1 1
b Show that = + .
c a b
c i Make c the subject of this formula.
ii Find c, when a = 10 and b = 20.

7 A man walks 70 km. He walks x km at 8 km/h and y km at 10 km/h.

a Find the length of time he was walking at 8 km/h in terms of x, and the length of
time he was walking at 10 km/h in terms of y.
b Find his average speed in terms of x and y.
c If the man walks at 10 km/h for the time he was walking at 8 km/h and at 8 km/h for
the time he was walking at 10 km/h, he walks 72 km. Find x and y.

8 Prove that the lines with equations 2y − x = 2, y + x = 7 and y − 2x = −5 meet at the

one point.

ISBN 978-1-009-11045-7 © Michael Evans et al 2022 Cambridge University Press

Photocopying is restricted under law and this material must not be transferred to another party.