college algebra

Question

Solve the system by using either the substitution method or the elimination-by-addition method, whichever seems more appropriate. (If the system is dependent, enter DEPENDENT. If the system is inconsistent, enter INCONSISTENT.)
5x − y = −37
2x + 3y = −8

 

cant get the answer to work out

any help would be appreciated

Answer 1

Multiply the 1st equation by 3 and then add the 2 equations together 

 

15x - 3y = -111

2x  + 3y = -8

 

17x = -119

x = -7 

 

Plug this value into the 2nd equation and solve for y

 

2(-7) + 3y = -8

-14 + 3y = -8

3y = 6

y = 2 

 

So x = -7 and y = 2

 

Check:  5(-7) - 2 = -35 - 2 = -37

            2(-7) + 3(2) = -14 + 6 = -8