AlgebraVery hardConstant giving a system no solution
Algebra practice question
The system kx + 2y = 7 and 3x + y = 4, where k is a constant, has no solution. What is the value of k?
Answer: 6
No solution means parallel lines: the coefficient ratios must match, k/3 = 2/1, so k = 6. (The constants' ratio 7/4 differs, so the lines are distinct.)
Common wrong answers
- If you answered 2
- 2 copies the y-coefficient.
- If you answered 3
- 3 copies the x-coefficient of the second equation.
- If you answered 1.5
- 1.5 inverts the ratio (3/2).
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