Peter R. answered 04/03/23
Experienced Instructor in Prealgebra, Algebra I and II, SAT/ACT Math.
Yet another system of equations problem (many appear on Ask an Expert). This one is non-linear (exponents).
(1) x2 + y2 = 5
(2) x - 3y = 5
Can do by substitution x = 5 + 3y
(5 + 3y)2 + y2 = 5 Use FOIL to expand
25 + 30y + 9y2 + y2 = 5 Combine terms, set = 0
10y2 + 30y + 20 = 0 Divide by 10
y2 + 3y + 2 = 0 Factor
(y + 1)(y + 2) = 0, So y = -1 or -2. Substitute in (2) to find related x value.
Answers: {x = -1; y = -2} {x = 2; y = -1)
Check on Desmos Graphing Calculator (it's a circle intersected by a straight line in two places).