College Algebra

nicnac95

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Jul 12, 2011
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1
Ted,
I have just started a new class, have done the reading and even worked on all the problems without needing to just to ensure that I fully understand the material. I have a question that I cannot find the answer to,

What are two symbolic techniques used to solve linear equations? Which do you feel is better? Explain?
Thanks,
Nicole
 
Elimination and substitution are two methods.

If you readily see how to do the elimination, it is quicker.

Substitution, however, is much more general and completely independent of immediate perception.

So each technique has its own peculiar merit. Consequently, I doubt that there a single criterion that permits ranking. Just my opinion. Others may disagree; see what they say.
 


Cramer's Rule and Gauss-Jordan Reduction are also methods.

Yet, the "best" approach often depends upon both the particular system and the computing resources available.

 
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