A solution to a linear equation in two variables consists of values of the variables that make the equation true when we plug them in.
The solution set of a linear equation in two variables is the set of all of the solutions to the equation. That is, the set of all ordered pairs that satisfy the equation. There are a number of ways to represent a solution set. We can even represent solution sets to linear equations in two variables on a graph, and that is exactly what we are interested in doing in this lesson!
Perfect! To display a solution set graphically, we simply graph the linear equation. Thankfully, these types of equations are one of the simplest to graph. You see, the graph of a linear equation is a line. Because of this, all we need to do is plot a few points that satisfy the equation and then basically just connect the dots in a straight line!
To represent the solution set of a linear equation, y = mx + b, we graph the equation using the following steps: 1 Find two or more points that satisfy the equation. 2 Plot those points on a graph. 3 Connect the points in a straight line.
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This representing of solution sets graphically isn't so bad! To really solidify our understanding, let's try one more example. Suppose you are renting a speedboat, and the rental cost is such that there is a $20 base fee plus $25 per hour. Therefore, the rental cost can be represented using the following linear equation: