2

2A Linear equations
2B Solving problems using linear equations
2C Substitution and transposition in linear
relations
2D Linear recursion relationships
2E Simultaneous equations
2F Solving problems using simultaneous
equations

Linear
equations
AREAS OF STUDY
• The construction of tables of values from a
• The solution of linear equations including literal given formula using technology
linear equations • Linear relations defined recursively and simple
• Developing formulas from word descriptions, applications
substitution of values into formulas • The algebraic and graphical solution of
• Solution of worded problems involving linear simultaneous linear equations with two
equations variables
• Substitution and transposition in linear relations, • Solution of worded problems involving
such as temperature conversion simultaneous linear equations with two
variables
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Digital doc

2A Linear equations 10 Quick Questions

A linear equation is an equation which contains a pronumeral (unknown value) raised to the
power of 1. Such an equation may also be called an equation of the first degree. Examples of
linear or first degree equations include:
x+5
2 − 4 = 8, y = 7x − 12 and
2x y= .
3
Equations of the type:
1
y = , y = x , 22x2 − 4 = 8, x2 + y2 = 4 and y = x3 − 8
x
are not linear since they contain pronumerals which are raised to powers other than 1; in these
cases, −1, 12 , 2, 2 and 3 respectively.

A linear equation is an equation which contains a pronumeral raised to the power of 1. It

may also be called an equation of the first degree.

Solving linear equations

When we are asked to solve an equation, we are to find the value of the pronumeral so that when
it is substituted into the original equation, it will make the equation a true statement.
Equations are solved by performing a number of inverse operations to both sides of the
equation until the value of the unknown is found.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 71

 When solving equations, the order of operations process, BODMAS (that is, Brackets Of
Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) is reversed. We may therefore apply the SAMDOB
process (BODMAS in reverse). This means that the operations of subtraction and addition are taken
care of first, followed by multiplication and division. Brackets are dealt with last.

WORKED EXAMPLE 1

Solve the following equations.

x 3x
2 −3=4
a 2x b +2=8 c 10 − =5
6 2
THINK WRITE

a 1 Write the given equation. 2 −3=4

a 2x
2 (Optional step.) Rule up a table with two Operation Inverse
columns to the side of the equation. In the
first column, note each of the operations ×2 ÷2
performed on x in the correct order. In the −3 +3
second column, write the corresponding
inverse operation. The arrows indicate which
operation to begin with.
3 Solve the equation by making x the subject. 2 −3=4
2x
Add 3 to both sides of the equation. 2 −3+3=4+3
2x
2 =7
2x
4 2x 7
Divide both sides of the equation by 2. =
2 2
1
5 Simplify. x = 3 2 (or 3.5)
b 1 Write the given equation. b x +2=8
6
2 (Optional step.) Rule up a table with two Operation Inverse
columns. In the first column, note each of
the operations performed on x in the correct ÷6 ×6
order. In the second column, write the +2 −2
corresponding inverse operation. The arrows
indicate which operation to begin with.
3 Solve the equation by making x the subject. x
Subtract 2 from both sides of the equation. +2=8
6
x
+ 2− 2 = 8− 2
6
x
=6
6
4 x
Multiply both sides of the equation by 6. ×6=6×6
6
5 Simplify. x = 36
3x
c 1 Write the given equation. c 10 − =5
2
2 (Optional step.) As in a and b above. Operation Inverse
−3
× ÷ −3
÷2 ×2
+ 10 − 10

72 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 3x
3 Solve the equation by making x the subject. 10 − =5
Subtract 10 from both sides of the equation. 2
3x
10 − 10 − = 5 − 110
−
2
3x −
= 5
2
−
3x
4 Multiply both sides of the equation by 2. × 2 = −5 × 2
2
−3x = −10
−
5 Divide both sides of the equation by −3. 3 x − 10
−
= −
3 3
10
x=
3
6 1
Simplify. = 33

Step 2 is an optional step which may be used initially to help you become familiar with the
process of solving equations.
The answers may be checked by substituting the values obtained back into the original
equation or using a calculator.
If the pronumeral appears in the equation more than once, we must collect terms containing
the unknown on one side of the equation and all other terms on the other side.

WORKED EXAMPLE 2

Solve for x in the equation: 22x − 4 = 4x

4 + 6.
THINK WRITE

1 Write the given equation. 2 − 4 = 4x + 6

2x
2 Transpose 4xx to the LHS of the equation by 2 − 4x − 4 = 4x − 4x + 6
2x
−2x
subtracting it from both sides of the equation. 2 −4=6
−2x
3 Add 4 to both sides of the equation. 2 −4+4=6+4
−2x
2 = 10
− 2x
4 Divide both sides of the equation by −2. 10
−2
= −2

5 Simplify. x = −5
6 To check whether your answer is correct, substitute LHS = 2 × (−5) − 4 = −14
it back into the equation to see if it will make a true RHS = 4 × (−5) + 6 = −14
statement: as LHS = RHS, the solution is correct.

If the equation contains brackets, they should be expanded first. In some cases, however,
both sides of the equation can be divided by the coefficient in front of the brackets instead of
expanding.

WORKED EXAMPLE 3

Solve for x:
2( + 5) = 3(2 x − 6)
a 2(x b 4(6 + 2x
2 ) = 20.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 73

 THINK WRITE

a 1 Write the given equation. a 2(x + 5) = 3(2x

3(2 − 6)
2 Expand each of the brackets on both 2 + 10 = 6x − 18
2x
sides of the equation.
3 Transpose 6xx to the LHS of the equation 2 − 6x + 10 = 6x − 6x − 18
2x
−4x + 10 = −18
by subtracting it from both sides of the
equation.
−4x
4 Subtract 10 from both sides of the + 10 − 10 = −18 − 10
equation. −4x = −28
−4x − 28
5 Divide both sides of the equation by −4. =
−4 −4

6 Simplify. x=7
b 1 Write the given equation. 2x) = 20
b 4(6 + 2
2 On the Main screen, tap:
• Action
• Advanced
• solve
Complete the entry line as:
solve(4(6 + 2x) = 20,x)
Then press E.

3 Write the solution. Solving 4(6 + 2x

2 ) = 20 for x gives
−
1
x=
2

If an equation contains a fraction, we should first remove the denominators by multiplying each
term of the equation by the lowest common denominator (LCD).

WORKED EXAMPLE 4

x+2 x
Find the value of x which will make the following a true statement: = 5− .
3 2
THINK WRITE
x+2 x
1 Write the given equation. = 5−
3 2
2 Determine the LCD of 2 and 3. LCD of 2 and 3 is 6.
( x + 2) x
3 Multiply each term of the equation by the LCD. ×6 = 5×6− ×6
3 2
6( x + 2) 6x
4 Simplify both sides of the equation. = 30 −
3 2
2(x + 2) = 30 − 3x

74 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

5 Expand the bracket on the LHS of the equation. 2 + 4 = 30 − 3x
2x
6 Add 3xx to both sides of the equation. 2 + 3x + 4 = 30 − 3x + 3x
2x
5x + 4 = 30
7 Subtract 4 from both sides of the equation. 5x + 4 − 4 = 30 − 4
5x = 26
5 x 26
8 Divide both sides of the equation by 5. =
5 5
1
9 Simplify. x = 5 (or 5.2)
5

Sometimes in equations containing fractions, a pronumeral appears in the denominator. Such

equations are solved in the same manner as those in the previous examples. However, care must
be taken to identify the value (or values) for which the pronumeral will cause the denominator
to be zero (0). If in the process of obtaining the solution the pronumeral is found to take such a
value, it should be discarded.
Even though the process of identifying the value of the pronumeral that causes the
denominator to be zero is at this stage merely a precaution, this process should be practised as it
will prove useful in future chapters.

WORKED EXAMPLE 5
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2 3 1
For the equation + = : Tutorial
x 2x x − 1 int-0857
Worked example 5
a state which value(s) of x will cause the equation to be undefined
b solve for x.

THINK WRITE
a Identify the values of x which will cause a First fraction: x=0
the denominator to be zero. Second fraction: 22x = 0
Note: Once the equation has been solved, x=0
values which cause the denominator to be Third fraction: x − 1 = 0
0 will be discarded. x=1
x cannot assume the values of 0 and 1, since this will
cause the fraction to be undefined.

b 1 Write the given equation. b 2+ 3 = 1

x 2x x −1
2 On the Main screen, tap:
• Action
• Advanced
• solve
Complete the entry line as:
2 3 1 
solve + = ,x
 x 2 x x − 1 
Then press E.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 75

 2 3 1
3 Write the solution. Solving + = for x gives
x 2x x − 1
Note: The value of x is not 0 or 1.
Hence, it is a valid solution. 7
x=
5
2
x =15

REMEMBER

1. A linear equation is an equation that contains a pronumeral raised to the power of 1. It

may also be called an equation of the first degree.
2. Linear equations are solved by using inverse operations. When solving linear equations
the order of operations process, BODMAS, is reversed.
3. If the pronumeral appears more than once, the terms containing the unknown are
collected onto one side of the equation and the numbers onto the other.
4. If the equation contains brackets, either expand, or divide both sides by the coefficient
in front of the bracket.
5. If an equation contains fractions, multiply each term of the equation by the LCD.
6. To check your solution, substitute it back into the equation to see if it will make a true
statement.

EXERCISE
2A Linear equations
1 WE1 Solve the following equations.
eBoo
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a x 16 b x − 6 = 2.3 2 +6=4
c 2x
Digital doc −3x −2
2 −7=9
d 2x e +5= f 3 − 2x
2 = 10
SkillSHEET 2.1
x
Solving linear g −0.2x
0.2 = 10 h 5x = −15 i = 12
equations 3
2x 3x −
6x −
j =4 k = 12 l = 5
3 5 7
x 1 3x 7x
m = n + 11 = 20 o −3= 4
4 2 4 11
−
2x 8x −
8x
p + 3 = −7 q − 7 = −3 r +1 = 2
5 4 13
x−9 x+3 3+ x −
s =5 t = 13 u = 6
7 10 7
6− x 5x − 3 11x + 2
v =5 w =7 x =7
13 9 5
x − 17 − 2 x = − 20
y 6 15 z
3
2 WE2 Solve for x.
2 = 7 + 9x
a 2x b x + 25 = −x c 15x + 22 = −7x
d 12 − 17x = −5x e 3x + 4 = x − 6 f 6x + 9 = x − 9
g −5x + 2 = 3x + 18 h 5x − 3 = −3 − 5x i x − 12 = 5x + 28
2x − 7 = −2x
j 2x 2 +1 k 5 + 2x
2 = 3xx − 6 l 15x + 2 = 13x − 10
m 8 − 3x = 4 − x n 12 + 5x = 6 + 11x o 13 − 3x = 4 − 6x
p −9 + 11x = −3 − x

76 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 3 WE3 Solve for x.
a 4(xx − 20) = 16 b 3(21 − x) = −6
−5(x
c + 8) = 20 d 2(3x − 4) = 6
−(5 −2(2x
e + 6x) = 13 f 2(2 − 7) = 3x
g 3(x − 7) = 4(x + 3) 8(2 + 1) = −2(7 − 3x)
h 8(2x
i 4(x + 3) = 2(7 − 4x) + 5 5(2 − 4) − 3 + 7(2 − x) = 0
j 5(2x
4 WE4 For each of the following, find the value of x which will make the
eBoo
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statement true.
x + 4 2x + 1 3x x Digital doc
a = b − =4 SkillSHEET 2.2
3 2 5 3
Finding
x 2x
c − x = 12 d x+ −3= 0 the lowest
7 6 common
7 x − 1 2 − 3x x 2x + 1 − multiple
e = f − = 2
4 5 4 6
2( x + 5) x 2 7 x 3(2 − 3 x ) 5 x
g + = h = +
3 4 3 3 2 8
3x − 2 7 − x 2 x + 1 1 x − 2 3 + 5x 2 x − 1
i + − = j − =
4 3 2 6 7 2 4
7− x 2(3 x − 6) 4(6 − 2 x ) 3( x + 7)
k −4= l = 5−
5 3 9 6
5 WE5 For each of the following:
a state which value (or values) of x will cause the equation to be undefined
b solve for x.
2 1 4 3 4 2
i − = ii + =
x +1 x x x − 1 x 3x
2(3 x − 6) 1 4 5 7
iii ( x − 1))(( x + 1) + x + 1 = x − 1 iv −
2x 4 x
=1

3(7 x − 4) − 15 11 − 3
v = 4 vi − =
x−2 4 x 8x x−3
4 2 1
6 MC Without solving the equation + = we know that x will not be equal to:
x − 3 x +1 x
A 3 B −1 C 0 D 0 or −1 E −1 or 3 or 0
3( x − 1) 4 − 2x
7 MC To solve −5= , each term of the equation could be multiplied by:
2 3
A 2 B 3 C 4 D 5 E 6
2x
8 MC In order to solve the equation = 4, the operations which must be performed are:
3
A × both sides by 2, then ÷ by 3 B × both sides by 2
3
C ÷ both sides by 2 D × both sides by 3, then ÷ by 4
3
E × both sides by 4, then ÷ by 2
9 Find the value of z, such that the solution to the following equation is x = 1.
3 z 8x
− =
x − 2 x + 1 ( x − 2)( x + 1)
10 Solve the following equation.
5 4 6
= +
2x − 2 x − 1 x − 2

Chapter 2 Linear equations 77

 2B Solving problems using linear
equations
Linear equations can often be used to help us in problem solving. This is usually done in the
following way.
1. Identify the unknown and choose any convenient pronumeral (usually x) to represent it.
2. Use the information given in the problem to compose an equation in terms of the pronumeral.
3. Solve the equation to find the value of the pronumeral.
4. Interpret your result by relating the answer back to the problem.

WORKED EXAMPLE 6

If the sum of twice a certain number and 5 is multiplied by 3 and then divided by 7, the result is 9.
Find the number.
THINK WRITE

1 Assign the pronumeral x to the unknown value. Let x = the unknown number.
2 Build the equation according to the information
given.
(a) Twice the number; this means × 2, so write this. 2
2x
(b) The sum of twice the number and 5; this means 2 +5
2x
2 + 5, so add this on.
2x
(c) The sum is multiplied by 3; this means 3(2 + 5)
3(2x
3(2 + 5). Add this on.
3(2x
Note: We include brackets to indicate the order
of operations.
3(2 x + 5) 3(2 x + 5)
(d) The result is divided by 7; this means .
7 7
Add this on.
(e) The result is 9; which means that all of the 3(2 x + 5)
previous computations will equal 9. Write this. =9
7
3 Solve for x.
3(2 x + 5)
(a) Multiply both sides of the equation by 7. ×7= 9×7
7
3(2 + 5) = 63
3(2x
3(2 x + 5) 63
(b) Divide both sides of the equation by 3 since =
they are both divisible by 3. 3 3
2 + 5 = 21
2x
(c) Subtract 5 from both sides of the equation. 2 + 5 − 5 = 21 − 5
2x
2 = 16
2x
(d) Divide both sides of the equation by 2. 2 x 16
=
2 2
(e) Simplify. x=8
4 Answer the question. The unknown number is 8.
5 Your answer can be easily verified by checking
whether it will satisfy the conditions specified in the
problem.

78 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 In this instance:
– ‘the sum of twice a certain number and 5’: 2 × 8 × 5 = 21
– ‘multiplied by 3’: 21 × 3 = 63
– ‘divided by 7’: 63 ÷ 7 = 9
– ‘the result is 9’: 9 = 9 (True)
Therefore, the answer is correct.

Sometimes the problem contains more than one unknown. In such cases one of the unknowns is
called x and the other unknown/s are then expressed in terms of x.

WORKED EXAMPLE 7
Sarah is buying tulip bulbs. Red tulip bulbs cost $5.20 each, while yellow tulip bulbs cost $4.70 each.
If 22 bulbs cost Sarah $107.40, how many of each type did she buy?

THINK WRITE
1 Define the variables. Let x = the number of red tulip bulbs.
Note: Since there are 22 bulbs altogether, then the Let 22 − x = the number of yellow tulip bulbs.
number of yellow tulip bulbs is 22 − the number of
red tulip bulbs; that is, 22 − x.
2 Write an expression for the cost of the red tulips. Total cost of red tulip bulbs
Note: 1 red tulip costs $5.20; therefore x red tulips = 5.20 × x
cost 5.20 × x. = 5.2x
5.2
3 Write an expression for the cost of the yellow tulips. Total cost of yellow tulip bulbs
Note: 1 yellow tulip costs $4.70; therefore 22 − x = 4.70 × (22 − x)
tulips cost 4.70 × (22 − x). = 4.7(22 − x)

Chapter 2 Linear equations 79

 4 Formulate an equation relating the total cost of the The total cost of the red and yellow tulip bulbs
red and yellow tulips and the expressions obtained is $107.40.
in steps 2 and 3. Also the total cost of red and yellow tulip bulbs
5.2x + 4.7(22 − x).
is 5.2
Therefore 5.2x + 4.7(22 − x) = 107.4
5.2
5 Solve the equation.
(a) Expand the brackets on the LHS of the 5.2 + 103.4 − 4.7x = 107.4
5.2x
equation.
(b) Collect the like terms on the LHS of the 0.5x + 103.4 = 107.4
equation.
(c) Subtract 103.4 from both sides of the equation. 0.5x + 103.4 − 103.4 = 107.4 − 103.4
0.5x = 4
(d) Divide both sides of the equation by 0.5. 0.5 x 4
=
0.5 0.5
(e) Simplify. x=8
6 Interpret the answer obtained. There are 8 red and 14 (that is, 22 − 8) yellow
tulip bulbs.
7 Answer the question. Sarah bought 8 red and 14 yellow tulip bulbs.

WORKED EXAMPLE 8
eBoo
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A train (denoted as train 1) leaves station A and moves in the direction of
Tutorial
station B with an average speed of 60 km/h. Half an hour later another train int-0858
(denoted as train 2) leaves station A and moves in the direction of the first train Worked example 8
with an average speed of 70 km/h.
Find:
a the time needed for the second train to catch up with the first train
b the distance of both trains from station A at that time.

THINK WRITE

1 Define the variables. Let x = the time taken for train 2 to reach train 1.
Note: Since the first train left half an hour Therefore the travelling time, t, for each train is:
earlier, the time taken for it to reach the Train 1: t1 = x + 0.5
meeting point will be x + 0.5. Train 2: t2 = x
2 Write the speed of each train. Train 1: v1 = 60
Train 2: v2 = 70
3 Write the distance travelled by each of the Train 1: d1 = 60(x + 0.5)
trains from station A to the point of the meeting. Train 2: d2 = 70x
70
(Distance = speed × time)
4 Equate the two expressions for distance. When the second train catches up with the first train,
Note: When the second train catches up with d1 = d2
the first train, they are the same distance from 60(x + 0.5) = 70x
70
station A — that is, d1 = d2.
5 Solve for x.
(a) Expand the brackets on the LHS of the 60 + 30 = 70x
60x 70
equation.

80 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 (b) Collect the like terms on the LHS of the 60 − 70x
60x 70 + 30 = 70x
70 − 70x
70
−10x
equation by subtracting 70
70xx from both 10 + 30 = 0
sides of the equation.
−10x
(c) Subtract 30 from both sides of the 10 + 30 − 30 = 0 − 30
−10x
equation. 10 = −30
−10 x − 30
(d) Divide both sides of the equation by −10. =
−10 −10

(e) Simplify. x=3

6 Substitute 3 in place of x into either of the two Substitute x = 3 into d2 = 70x
70
expressions for distance, say into d2. d2 = 70 × 3
7 Evaluate. = 210
8 Answer the questions. a The second train will catch up with the first train
in 3 hours after leaving station A.
b Both trains will be 210 km from station A.

REMEMBER

To solve worded problems using linear equations, follow these steps:

1. Identify the variables.
2. Set up an equation by transforming the written information into an algebraic statement
or statements.
3. Solve the equation.
4. Interpret the result by relating the answer back to the original problem.

EXERCISE
2B Solving problems using linear equations
1 WE6 A number is multiplied by 5 and then divided by 3, and the result is −35. Find the
number.
2 The average of three consecutive odd numbers is −3. Find the largest number.

3 Half of a certain number is subtracted from 26 and the result is then tripled, and the
answer is 18. Find the number.
4 The sum of twice the number and 6 is 20. Find the number.

5 Double the sum of a number and 3 is 18. Find the number.

6 The sum of one-third of a number and 5 is 27. Find the number.

7 Fiona is buying tulip bulbs. Red tulip bulbs cost $6.40 each, while yellow tulip bulbs
cost $5.20 each. If 28 bulbs cost Fiona $167.20, how many of each type did she buy?
8 A rectangle is 2.5 times as long as it is wide. Find the dimensions of the rectangle if its
perimeter is 56 cm.
9 In an isosceles triangle, 2 sides of equal length are together 8 cm longer than the third side. If
the perimeter of the triangle is 32 cm, what is the length of each side?

Chapter 2 Linear equations 81

 10 In a scalene triangle the first angle is 3 times as large as the second,
while the third angle is 20° smaller than the second. Find the size of
each angle; hence, name the triangle according to its angles’ sizes.
11 The price of coffee rose by 20% and the cost is shown on the
coffee jar on the right. Find the cost of the same jar of coffee
before the price rise.
12 All items at a clothing store have been reduced by 15%. If
Stephanie purchased a shirt at the reduced price of $84.15, what
was its original price?
13 MC a If 7 times a number subtracted from 52 gives 3, then the
number is: $4.80
A −7 B 7 C 8
6
D 6 E 77
b The sum of one-quarter of a number and 10 is 15. The value of
the number is:
A 100 B 50 C 40
D 20 E 20
1
14 a I am 3 times as old as my cousin Carla, who is 3 3 times as old as my daughter Nina. If our
total ages are 43 years, how old is my cousin?
b Another cousin, Zara, is Carla’s older sister. Zara is as many times as old as my daughter
Nina as the number of years that she is older than Carla. How old is my other cousin?
15 Simon is only 16 years old, but he has already lived in 4 different countries because of his
father’s job. He was born and spent a few years of his early childhood in the USA, then the
family moved to Germany where he stayed one year longer than he had in the USA. After
that, he lived in London for twice as long as he had in Germany. Finally they came to live in
Melbourne. So far, he has been in Australia for 2 years less than he lived in America.
a At what age did Simon leave his country of birth?
b For how long did Simon live in each country?
16 To write up my History report, I borrowed some books from the school library. However,
it soon became apparent that I did not have enough books. So I returned to the library and
borrowed 3 times as many books as I had before. After a while, I realised that I did not really
need half of the books, so I returned them to the library and now I have only two more books
than I borrowed in the beginning. How many books did I originally borrow from the library?
17 In the storeroom of a fruit shop there were
2 boxes of apples, one of golden delicious and the
other of jonathans, which were to be sold at $2.80
and $3.50/kg, respectively. The apples, however,
were accidentally mixed together and, instead of
sorting them out, the owner decided to sell them
as they were. So as not to make a loss, he sold the
mixed apples at $3.10/kg. How many kilograms
of each type of apple were there if together they
weighed 35 kg?
18 Before the beginning of the summer season a
shopkeeper ordered shorts and T-shirts from
the factory. Each pair of shorts cost him $7.50
and a T-shirt cost $5.20. If he ordered 200
items altogether and the total of the bill came
to $1212.50, how many pairs of shorts and how
many T-shirts did he order?

82 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 19 WE8 Alex and Nat are going for a bike ride. Nat can
ride at 10 km/h, while Alex can develop a maximum speed
of 12 km/h if he needs to. Nat leaves home at 10 am, while
Alex stays behind for 15 minutes and then sets out to catch
up with Nat. When will Alex reach Nat, assuming that both
of them are riding at their maximum speed?
20 Two towns are 165 km apart. A car and a bus start travelling
towards each other from their respective towns. The car
moves 10 km/h faster than the bus. If they pass each other
in 1.5 h after they began their respective journeys, find the
speed of each vehicle.
21 Samuel is paddling with a constant speed towards a certain
place he has marked on his map. With the aid of a current
(which has a speed of 2 km/h) it takes him only 1 h 20 min
to reach his destination. However, on the way back he has
to paddle against the current and it then takes him 4 h to
reach his starting point. Find Samuel’s speed on the still
water.
22 One administrative assistant can type 1.5 times as fast as
another. If they both work together, they can finish a certain
job in 6 hours. However, if the slower one works by herself,
she will need 15 hours to finish the same job. How many
hours will the quicker assistant need to complete the job by
herself?
23 Maya needs to renovate her house. She has enough money to pay a plumber for 28 days or
a carpenter for 21 days. For how many days can she pay the tradesmen if they both work at
the same time? If Maya’s next pay cheque will come in 2 weeks, can she afford to hire both
specialists till then?
24 The price of coffee rose by 20% and is now $8.50 per jar. Find the cost of the same jar of
coffee before the rise in price.
25 In a particular school a number of VCE students obtained a tertiary entrance score higher than
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99.4 and 15% more students obtained a score higher than 99.0, but lower than 99.4. If there
Digital doc were 43 students whose tertiary entrance scores were above 99.0, how many of those obtained
WorkSHEET 2.1 a score above 99.4?
26 Isabel had some money in the bank on a long term deposit at 5% simple interest p.a. She then
needed some money for a new car ($1080 less than she had in her term deposit), so she decided
to borrow from the bank at 5.9% simple interest p.a. In the end it turned out that the interest
she obtained from her investment was exactly equal to the interest she had to pay on her loan.
Find out how much Isabel’s new car cost her.

2C Substitution and transposition in

linear relations
A formula is an equation or a rule that defines the relationship between two or more variables.
If a formula describes a relationship between two variables, both of which are to the power of
1, and does not contain terms that include a product or quotient of those variables, then such a
relation is said to be linear.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 83

 The graph which represents a linear relation is a straight line. That is how the term linear is
derived. For example:
x − 4y − 7 = 0 and y = −3x + 6
are linear relations, while
x
x + y − xy = 3 or x2 + y = 29 or =7
are not (as explained previously). y
Linear relations are often found in practical situations. For instance, the formula for the
circumference of a circle, C = πD, and the formula for the conversion of temperature from
degrees Celsius to degrees Fahrenheit, F = 95 C + 32, both describe linear relations.
If all but one value in the formula are known, then the value of the unknown variable is
evaluated by substituting the known values into the formula.

WORKED EXAMPLE 9

If the formula for the conversion of temperature from degrees Celsius ((°C) to degrees Fahrenheit
9
(°F) is given by F = 5 C + 32, find the value of F when:
a C = 35 °C b C = −10 °C. c Answer parts a and b using a CAS calculator.

THINK WRITE

a 1 Write the formula for the conversion of a F = 9 C + 32

5
temperature.
2 Substitute 35 °C in place of C into the If C = 35 °C,
formula. F = 95 × 35 + 32
Note: 9 C = 9 × C
5 5
3 Evaluate. = 63 + 32
= 95
4 Answer the question and include the 35 °C is equivalent to 95 °F.
appropriate unit.
b 1 Write the formula for the conversion of b F = 9 C + 32
5
temperature.
2 Since C = −10 °C, substitute −10 °C in F = 95 × −10 + 32
place of C into the formula.
3 Evaluate. = −18 + 32
= 14
−10 °C
4 Answer the question and include the is equivalent to 14 °F.
appropriate unit.
c 1 On the Main screen, tap: c
• Action
• Advanced
• solve
Complete the entry lines as:
 9 
solve f = c + 32, f  | c = 35
 5 
 9 
solve f = c + 32, f  | c = −10
 5 
Press E after each entry.

84 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 2 Write the solutions. 35 °C is equivalent to 95 °F
−10 °C is equivalent to 14 °F

In the previous example, the same operations were performed for both values of C: first the
required value of C was multiplied by 9 and then 32 was added. If we were asked to find the
5
values in °F for 20 other values of C,, we would go through exactly the same procedure. To
repeat this procedure 20 times would be rather boring and time consuming. In situations like
this, it is much easier to create a table of values using a calculator or a spreadsheet instead of
performing repetitive calculations by hand.

WORKED EXAMPLE 10

Marsha wishes to place some money in a term deposit with an interest rate of 5.5% p.a. for a 2-year
period, but first she wants to know how much interest she will earn on her investment if she deposits
between $2000 and $3000. The amount of simple interest that she can earn is given by the formula
I = PRT, where P is the principal (the amount she invests), R is the rate of interest per annum (p.a.),
and T is the period of time, in years, for which the principal is to be invested. Use a spreadsheet to
find the values of interest for each value of P, where P increases from $2000 to $3000 inclusive, in
increments of $50.

THINK WRITE

1 Write the formula of the interest equation. I = PRT

2 Write the value of each given variable. P = principal, ranging from $2000 to $3000 in
increments of $50 (that is, 2000, 2050, 2100 and
so on)
R = 5.5%
= 5.5
100
= 0.055
T=2
3 Substitute the known values into the formula. I = P × 0.055 × 2
Note: The value for P was not substituted since = 0.11P
it is constantly varying.
4 On the Spreadsheet screen:
Label column A: ‘pvalue’
Enter the values of P into column A,
beginning from 2000 in increments of 50.
Press E after each entry.
Label column B: ‘ivalue’
Complete the entry line in cell B2 as:
= 0.11 × A2
Then press E.
Highlight cells B2 to B22 and tap:
• Edit
• Fill Range
• OK

Chapter 2 Linear equations 85

 5 Copy the values of the principal and P I = 0.11P P I = 0.11P
corresponding interest payable into the table.
2000 220 2550 280.5
2050 225.5 2600 286
2100 231 2650 291.5
2150 236.5 2700 297
2200 242 2750 302.5
2250 247.5 2800 308
2300 253 2850 313.5
2350 258.5 2900 319
2400 264 2950 324.5
2450 269.5 3000 330
2500 275

The interest payable for any principal can now be readily obtained from the table of values.

WORKED EXAMPLE 11
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Marsha decided to place $2000 in a term deposit for 1 year. She knew the
Tutorial
banks in her area offered interest rates ranging from 5% p.a. to 7% p.a. and
int-0859
wanted to find out how much interest her investment would earn in each case. Worked example 11
If the relation between the interest ((I) and rate of interest ((R) is given by
I = 20R
20 :
a draw a straight line graph to represent the relationship
b use the graph to find the amount of interest earned when the rate is
i 6% ii 6.5%
c use the graph to find the rate which will pay interest of $110.

THINK WRITE/DRAW

a 1 Write the given formula. a I = 20R and 5 ≤ R ≤ 7

2 Choose the two given R values to substitute Let R = 5 and R = 7.
into the given formula and determine the When R = 5, I = 20 × 5
corresponding I values. = 100 ⇒ (5, 100)
Note: The extreme values of a given range When R = 7, I = 20 × 7
are the most convenient values to use. = 140 ⇒ (7, 140)
3 State the points as coordinates. Two points on the graph are (5, 100) and
(7, 140).
4 Rule a set of axes and label them. I ($)
Note: Graph paper must be used to obtain 140 (7, 140)
an accurate graph. The axes must be scaled
appropriately in order for values to be read
off the graph.

100 (5, 100)

0 5 7 R (%)

86 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

b i 1 To find I when R = 6%, draw a vertical b i I ($)
line from the point 6 on the R-axis 140
until it intersects with the straight line.
From the point of intersection with
the graph, draw a horizontal line until 120
it intersects with the II-axis. Read the
value from the I-axis.
I 100
0 5 6 7 R (%)
2 Answer the question. When the interest rate is 6%, the interest
payable is $120.
ii 1 To find I when R = 6.5%, draw a ii I ($)
vertical line from the point 6.5 on 140
the R-axis until it intersects with 130
the straight line. From the point of
intersection with the graph, draw a
horizontal line until it intersects with
the II-axis. Read the value from the 100
I
I-axis. 0 5 6.5 7 R (%)

2 Answer the question. When the interest rate is 6.5%, the interest
payable is $130.
c 1 To find R when I = $110, draw a horizontal c I ($)
line from the point 110 on the II-axis until 140
it intersects with the straight line. From
the point of intersection with the graph,
draw a vertical line until it intersects with
the R-axis. Read the value from the R-axis. 110
100
0 5 5.5 7 R (%)

2 Answer the question. When the interest payable is $110, the rate of
interest is 5.5%.

As shown in the previous example for the relation I = 20R, we were able to obtain values of I,
given R, and also obtain values of R, given I.
Alternatively, this could have also been solved algebraically. For instance, in worked example
11, part c , using the relation I = 20R, substitute I = 110 into the equation and solve for R:
I = 20R
110 = 20R
110 20 R
=
20 20
5.5 = R
R = 5.5%
However, if we need to find many values of R given various values of I, it would be more
convenient to have the corresponding formula — the formula which would have R on one side
and everything else on the other side of the equal sign.
The variable which is by itself is called the subject of the formula (that is, a formula describes
its subject in terms of all other variables). In the formula I = 20R, I is the subject. So now our

Chapter 2 Linear equations 87

 task is to make R the subject. Thus, we need to rearrange our formula. Such a rearrangement is
called transposition.
To transpose the equation I = 20R
I 20R
divide both sides of the equation by 20. =
20 20
I
=R
20
I
R=
20
To rearrange or transpose the formula, we need to perform the same inverse operations to
both sides of the equation until the desired result is achieved.

WORKED EXAMPLE 12

4x = 2y
a Transpose the equation 4 2 − 3 to make y the subject.
b Transpose the equation 5(2 − 3x
3 ) = 4(y
4( + 5) to make x the subject.

THINK WRITE

a 1 Write the given equation. a 4x = 2y − 3

2 Add 3 to both sides of the equation. 4x + 3 = 2y − 3 + 3
4x + 3 = 2y
3 Divide each term on both sides of the 4 x 3 2y
equation by 2. + =
2 2 2
4 3
Simplify both sides of the equation. 2x + = y
2
3
y = 2x +
2
b 1 Write the given equation. b 5(2 – 3x) = 4(y + 5)
2 To make x the subject, on the Main
screen, tap:
• Action
• Advanced
• solve
Complete the entry line as:
solve(5(2 − 3x) = 4(y + 5),x)
Then press E.

3 Write the solution. Solving 5(2 – 3x) = 4(y + 5) for x gives

−
2(2 y + 5) .
x=
15

To transpose the above equations, we use the same methods as those employed for solving
linear equations. The only difference is that in the end we do not obtain a unique (or specific)
numerical value for the required variable, but rather an expression in terms of other variables.

88 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 REMEMBER

1. If all variables but one are known in the formula, the value of the unknown variable
may be found by substituting the known values into the formula. Prior to substitution,
transpose the formula to make the unknown variable the subject.
2. Transposition is the rearrangement of the formula. It involves using the same methods
as those employed for solving equations.
3. The subject of the formula is the variable which is by itself, on one side of the
equation, while all other variables are on the other side.

EXERCISE
2C Substitution and transposition in linear relations
9
1 WE9 Use the formula for conversion of temperatures, F = 5 C + 32, (where F represents
degrees Fahrenheit and C represents degrees Celsius) to find F when C is equal to:
a 35 b 100 c −15
−
d 50 e 19 f 3
g −7 h 0
2 The radius of the smallest circle of the target is
2.5 cm and the distances between the subsequent
2.5
circles are 5 cm.
a Find the radius of the second, third, fourth and
fifth circles. 5 cm
b If the circumference of a circle is given by the
5 cm
formula C = πD, find the circumference of each
of the 5 circles of the target (use π = 3.14). 5 cm

3 WE10 Currency rates fluctuate daily. On a certain day, 5 cm

1 Australian dollar ((A) was equivalent to 0.768 of
1 American dollar (US ). Hence, on that particular day the relationship between two currencies
US
could be described as A = . Using this formula, set up a reference table for the foreign
0.768
exchange clerk, containing amounts between $5 and $100 in increments of $5 in both
American and Australian currencies. (Use a spreadsheet or a CAS calculator to help you.)

Chapter 2 Linear equations 89

 4 A bank clerk, who deals with term deposits, wishes to have a reference table with the initial
investments and corresponding values of investments at the end of the term, which she
can refer to while advising her clients. With the current special interest rate at 4.65% p.a.
for a 6-month term, the formula which could be used to set up such a table is
P × 4.65 × 0.5
A= P+ , where P is the principal (the size of the investment) and A is the total
100
amount a client will receive at the end of 6 months. This special interest rate is offered for
principal amounts between $5000 and $10 000 inclusive. Use the spreadsheet to set up the
table of values in increments of $500.
5 WE11 A family travelled by car from one town to another. The towns are 270 km apart
and the whole trip took them 5 hours. Assuming that the speed was constant throughout the
journey, the relationship between the time, t, and the distance travelled, d, could be modelled
by the following equation: d = 54t.
a On a graph, what would the horizontal axis show — time or distance?
b Draw a graph to represent the relationship.
c Use the graph to estimate the distance travelled in i 1.5 h ii 3 h i i i 4 h.
d Use the graph to estimate how much time it took to travel
i 55 km i i 200 km i i i 250 km.
e How long had the family been travelling by the time they were 50 km away from their
destination?
6 The graph at right shows the cost of production, C, of C
two-way mirrors at a certain factory during each week of
operation. (50, 345)
345
As can be seen from the graph, the cost, C, depends

Cost ($)
on the number of mirrors, n, produced that week.
a Use the graph to estimate the cost of producing:
i 10 mirrors i i 25 mirrors i i i 40 mirrors. 220
b Use the graph to estimate the number of mirrors
produced, when the cost is: 0 50 n
i $250 i i $275 i i i $300. Number of mirrors
c Find the equation of the line.
d Use the equation obtained in part c to verify your answers to parts a and b .

7 WE12 Transpose each of the following equations to make the pronumeral, indicated in
brackets, the subject. (If two pronumerals are indicated, make a separate transposition for each.)

a 22x − 3y = 6 (y) 5y + 4x = 20 (x, y)

c 22x + y − 6 = 0 (y) 3xx − 4y + 12 = 0 (y)

e 3a − 14 (a) 5 = 2 − 3k
5p (k)

g 3
a 4
b (a, b) 10 − 3a = 2a − b (a, b)

i S = 2n − 4 (n) a = 3b − 0.5c (c)

2(a 3)
k y = 3(5 − 2x
2 ) (x) l =b (a)
5
7(a − 4 b) 5(b − 2a)
m 5(3 − 2d) = 6(f
6( + 4) (d, f)
f n = (a, b)
3 4
3a 2(b + 33aa) − 2x 3 x − 66y
o + = 1 (a, b) p −6= (x, y)
2 3 5 10

90 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 Questions 8 to 1 1 refer to the following information.
A gardener charges a $40 fixed fee for each visit plus $12 per hour of work.
8 MC If C represents the total cost of a visit and t the time he worked (in hours), which of the
following graphs represents the above information?
A C B t (4, 76) C C
40

12
40
40
0 t 0 C
0 t
D C E t
(5, 100) 12

40
0 t 0 40 C

9 MC Which of the following represents the relationship between t and C?

A C + 40 − 12t = 0 B 12t + C = 40 C 12t + 40 − C = 0
D t = 12C + 40 E 40 + 12t + C = 0
10 MC When the relationship between t and C is transposed to make t the subject, it is then
written as:
C + 40 C − 12
A t= B 12t + 40 = C C t=
12 40
C 3 C 1
D t= + E −33 = t
40 10 12
11 MC If the total bill came to $79, for how long did the gardener work?
A 3h B 3 h 15 min C 3 h 30 min D 3 h 45 min E 4h
12 The sum of the interior angles of a regular polygon is given by S = (n − 2) × 180°, where n is
the number of sides.
a Transpose the formula to make n the subject.
b Use the appropriate formulas to complete the following table:

Polygon Number of sides (n) Sum of interior angles (S)

Triangle 3
Hexagon 6
Dodecagon 12
Nonagon 9
Heptagon 7
1080°
540°
360°
1440°

(If you use a graphics calculator, create two separate tables using eBoo
eBookk plus
the appropriate formulas and then copy the values into your book.) Digital doc
WorkSHEET 2.2

Chapter 2 Linear equations 91

 2D Linear recursion relationships
If a sequence of n numbers (terms) is such that each number after the
eBoo
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first is obtained by following a certain rule, then the equation defining
the relationship between any term (nth term) and the previous Interactivity
(n − 1)th term is called a recurrence relation. int-0803
If each term in the sequence is obtained by adding the same number Linear recursion
to the previous term, it would then be a linear recurrence relation. relationships

A linear recurrence relation is defined by:

tn = tn − 1 + d, t0 = a
In words, this means ‘the first term in the sequence is a and then each consecutive term is
obtained by adding d to the preceding term’.

WORKED EXAMPLE 13

Write the first 5 terms of the recurrence relation xn = xn − 1 + 2, x0 = 6.

THINK WRITE

1 Write the given recurrence relation. xn = xn − 1 + 2, x0 = 6

2 Substitute n = 1 into the recurrence relation. x1 = x0 + 2
3 Substitute 6 in place of x0. =6+2
4 Evaluate. =8
5 Substitute n = 2 into the recurrence relation. x2 = x2 − 1 + 2
= x1 + 2
6 Substitute 8 in place of x1. =8+2
7 Evaluate. = 10
8 Substitute n = 3 into the recurrence relation. x3 = x3 − 1 + 2
= x2 + 2
9 Substitute 10 in place of x2. = 10 + 2
10 Evaluate. = 12
11 Substitute n = 4 into the recurrence relation. x4 = x4 − 1 + 2
= x3 + 2
12 Substitute 12 in place of x3. = 12 + 2
13 Evaluate. = 14
14 Answer the question. The first five terms are 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14.
Alternative method (short cut)
1 Begin with the number 6 and keep on adding 6
2 until a set of 5 numbers is obtained. 6+2=8
Note: The relation xn = xn − 1 + 2, x0 = 6, tells 6 + 2 + 2 = 110
us that the first number in the set is 6 and every 8
other number is obtained by adding 2 to the 6 +
 2+
 2 + 2 = 112

previous number. 10
6+ 2+ 2+2 + 2 = 114

12
2 Answer the question. The first five terms are 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14.

92 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

WORKED EXAMPLE 14

Due to inflation, the price on a tub of yoghurt increases each year by 5c. In a certain year a tub of
yoghurt cost 90c.
a Set up a recurrence relation between consecutive years’ prices on yoghurt.
b Find the price of yoghurt for each year for the next 5 years.
c Deduce an expression for the price for the nth year.

THINK WRITE

a 1 Write the general recurrence relation. a tn = tn − 1 + d, t0 = a

2 Write the values of a and d. a = 90, d = 5

3 Substitute the known values of a and tn = tn − 1 + 5, t0 = 90
d into the recurrence relation.
b 1 Substitute n = 1 into the recurrence b tn = tn − 1 + 5, t0 = 90
relation and evaluate t1. When n = 1 t1 = t0 + 5
= 90 + 5
= 95
2 On the Sequence screen, tap ^.
Complete the sequence as shown in
the screen at right and tap #.
Press E after each entry.

Then tap #.

3 Write the next five terms of the t1 = 95, t2 = 100, t3 = 105, t4 = 110, t5 = 115
recursive relation.
4 Answer the question, including the The price of a tub of yoghurt for each of the
appropriate unit. next five years will be $0.95, $1.00, $1.05, $1.10
and $1.15.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 93

 c 1 Observe the terms from part b . Notice c t1 = 90 + 1 × 5
that each term is obtained by adding t2 = t1 + 5 = 90 + 1 × 5 + 5 = 90 + 2 × 5
90 to the product of a term’s number t3 = t2 + 5 = 90 + 2 × 5 + 5 = 90 + 3 × 5
and 5; that is, tn = 90 + n × 5. t4 = t3 + 5 = 90 + 3 × 5 + 5 = 90 + 4 × 5
t5 = t4 + 5 = 90 + 4 × 5 + 5 = 90 + 5 × 5
tn = 90 + n × 5
2 Answer the question. The expression for the price, P, of a tub of yoghurt for
the nth year is P = 5n + 90.

If the linear recurrence relation tn = tn − 1 + d, t0 = a is rearranged to tn − tn − 1 = d, t0 = a, the

new relation is called a linear difference equation (since it shows the difference between
two consecutive terms). Any linear difference equation has a corresponding linear equation
of the form y = mx + c, where y = tn, m = d and c = a. Therefore, y = mx + c may be written
as tn = dn + a.

A linear difference equation tn − tn − 1 = d, t0 = a

has a corresponding linear equation: tn = dn + a

This correspondence is especially useful in solving problems describing real life situations.
For instance, question c in the previous example could have been solved using this formula in
one step:
tn = dn + a; d = 5, a = 90, so
tn = 5n + 90

WORKED EXAMPLE 15
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eBoo k plus
From the information shown in the following table, find: Tutorial
a a linear difference equation int-0860
b a linear relation between tn and n. Worked example 15

n 0 1 2 3 4
−1 −5 −9
tn 7 3

THINK WRITE

a 1 Find the difference between each pair of a t1 − t0 ⇒ 3 − 7 = −4

−1
consecutive terms. t2 − t1 ⇒ − 3 = −4
t3 − t2 ⇒ 5 − (−1) = −4
−

t4 − t3 ⇒ −9 − (−5) = −4
2 Comment on the result obtained. The difference, d, is constant and equal to −4.
3 Write the linear difference equation. Difference equation: tn − tn − 1 = −4, t0 = 7
b 1 Write the linear difference equation b tn − tn − 1 = −4, t0 = 7
obtained in part a .
2 Write the general form of the linear tn = dn + a
relation.
3 Substitute −4 in place of d and 7 in place tn = −4n + 7
of a.

94 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

WORKED EXAMPLE 16

A computer purchased for $2000 depreciates at $180 per year.

a Find a difference equation which describes this situation.
b Using a table of values, find out when the value of the computer will be less
than 20% of its purchase price.

THINK WRITE/DRAW
a 1 Write the general linear difference a tn − tn − 1 = d, t0 = a
equation.
2 Assign given values to a and d. t0 = a
Note: $2000 corresponds to the original = 2000
price, a. d = −180
The value −180 corresponds to the rate
of depreciation, d. The value is negative
as the price decreases each year.
3 Substitute the known values into the tn − tn − 1 = d, t0 = a
linear difference equation. tn − tn − 1 = −180, t0 = 2000
b 1 Rewrite difference equation as linear b tn = dn + a
equation. tn = −180n + 2000
2 Set up the table of values using a CAS The depreciation rate is about $200 per year and the
calculator. First estimate the number of purchase price is $2000; therefore we need roughly
years you need. 2000
= 10 years. Since the depreciation rate is
200
lower, we will determine the value for 11 years.
3 On the Spreadsheet screen:
Label column A: ‘nvalue’
Enter the values of n into column A,
beginning from 0 in increments of 1.
Press E after each entry.
Label column B: ‘value’
In cell B2 complete the entry line as:
= −180 × A2 + 2000
Then press E.
Highlight cells B2 to B13 and tap:
• Edit
• Fill Range
• OK

Chapter 2 Linear equations 95

 4 Copy results into the table of values. Year Value ($) Year Value ($)
(Scroll down to see all entries in the
table.) 0 2000 6 920
1 1820 7 740
2 1640 8 560
3 1460 9 380
4 1280 10 200
5 1100 11 20
5 Determine what value 20% of the 20
100
× $2000 = $400
purchase price is.
6 Answer the question. The computer will be less than 20% of its original
Note: From the table, the value of value 9 years after purchasing it.
the computer will be less than $400
($380 to be exact) after 9 years from
purchasing it.

REMEMBER

1. A linear recurrence relation describes a set of values, where each term after the first is
obtained by adding the same number to the preceding term and is given by tn where
tn = tn − 1 + d, t0 = a.
2. When the linear recurrence relation is rearranged to
tn − tn − 1 = d, t0 = a,
it shows the difference between two consecutive terms and is called a linear difference
equation.
3. Every linear difference equation has a corresponding linear equation
tn = dn + a.

EXERCISE
2D Linear recursion relationships
1 WE13 Write the first 5 terms of each of the following recurrence relations:
a tn = tn − 1 + 6, t0 = 1 b tn = tn − 1 − 3, t0 = 12
d tn = tn − 1 − 0.7, t0 = 2
−
1
c tn = tn − 1 + 3 , t0 = 2
4
e tn − 1 = tn + 2.3, t1 = −3 f un = un − 1 + 4, u0 = 0
g vn = vn − 1 − 1 , v0 = 3 h xn = xn − 1 + 1.1, x0 = −43
2 2

2 WE14 During the first 3 months of his life, a baby boy gains eBook plus
on average 220 g per week.
Digital doc
a Set up a recurrence relation for the consecutive weekly weights of the
SkillSHEET 2.3
boy who was 3.370 kg when he was born. Linear
b Find the weight of the boy during his first 4 weeks of life. recursion
c Deduce the expression for the weight of the boy at the nth week from relationships
birth.

96 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

   3 Write the recursive relations for the information given in the following tables.
i ii
n 0 1 2  3 4 n 0 1 2 3 4
tn 3 6 9 12 15 tn 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
iii iv
n 1 2 3  4 5 n 0 2    4     6  8
−1 −3
tn 5 3 1 tn 2 6 10 14 18
v vi
n 0 1 3 5 8 n   1   2  4  5 6
− −5.5 −8.5 −11.5
tn 1 0 2 4 7 tn 3.5 0.5

  4   WE15  For each of the relations in question 3, find:

a the linear difference equation
b the linear relation between tn and n.
  5 Find the first 4 terms for each of the following difference equations:
a tn − tn − 1 = −3, t0 = 12 b tn − tn − 1 = 5.69, t0 = 2.19
c tn + 1 − tn = 7, t1 = −18 d tn + 1 − tn = 4, t2 = 0
Questions 6 to 8 refer to the following recurrence relation: tn = tn − 1 − 3, a = 2.
  6   MC  The first 2 terms described by the above relation are:
A −1, −4 B 2, −3 C 2, −1 D −1, 2 E −3, 2
  7   MC  The values of d and a in the corresponding difference equation are:
A 2, −3 B −3, 2 C 3, −2 D −2, 3 E −3, −2
  8   MC  Which of the following does not belong to the recursive relation that corresponds to the
linear relation described above?
A 5 B 2 C −1 D −4 E −7
  9   WE16  A collection of coins originally valued at $250 appreciates each year by $23.70.
a Find a difference equation which describes this situation.
b How long will it take for the collection to double its original value?
(Hint: Use a table of values to assist you.)
10 Suong is making a pyramid out of her textas. The bottom row consists of 24 textas and the next
row consists of 21 textas, and so on.
a Find the recurrence relation for tn, the number of textas in the nth row.
b Find the expression for n, the number of textas in any nth row.
c Using the table of values, find in what row the number of textas is:
i  a half ii a third iii a quarter of those in the first row.
11 Leo is involved in a weight-loss program where he is required to walk each day for a certain
time. Upon joining the program, he has to walk for 18 minutes a day during the first week and
2 extra minutes each consecutive week until he builds up his time to 42 minutes.

Chapter 2  Linear equations 97

5_61_60271_MQ11SG_TI_ch02.indd 97 15/12/09 12:27:42 PM

 a Set up a recurrence relation defining this situation.
b Create a table of values, which shows weeks and corresponding duration of the exercise
(in minutes). Use the table to find:
i the week when the initial duration of Leo’s walk doubles
ii the number of weeks taken to reach the target time.
c Write the linear equation which relates the length of the exercise, tn, with the week
number, n, and use it to verify your answers to part b .
12 Michelle and David are going to make scented
candles for a Mother’s Day stall. They have
calculated that the setting-up cost will be $15
and then the cost of wax, wicks and perfume
will be an additional $1.20 for each candle.
They are planning to sell the candles at
$3.50 each.
a If the cost of making n candles is cn and
the takings from selling n candles is tn,
write the recurrence relations for both cost
and takings.
b Use a CAS calculator or a spreadsheet to
find how many candles should be sold in
order to break even (that is, for the set-up
cost and cost of making n candles to equal
the takings of selling n candles).
c Write the difference equation for the
profit.
d Use a calculator or a spreadsheet to create
a table of values showing the profit from
selling up to 30 candles.

2E Simultaneous equations
Consider the following problem. If two cassettes and three CDs
cost a total of $42, what is the cost of one cassette and one CD? Cost of a Cost of a
If we assume that the cost of each item is a whole number cassette ($) CD ($)
of dollars and that any price is possible, then each of these 3 12
combinations could represent the solution to the problem. 6 10
Of course, there could be many more answers if we also
consider prices in dollars and cents. To be able to solve this 9 8
problem, we need extra information in order to select the 12 6
appropriate combination. For instance, if it is also known that 15 4
four cassettes and one CD cost $34, then the only combination
18 2
which will fit both descriptions is the situation where the
cassette costs $6 and the CD costs $10.
We have just seen that it is impossible to solve one linear equation with two unknowns. There
must be two equations with the same two unknowns in order for a solution to be found.
Such equations are called simultaneous equations.

Graphical solution of simultaneous equations

If two straight lines intersect, the point of their intersection belongs to both lines and hence the
coordinates of that point, x and y, will represent the solution of two simultaneous equations
which define the lines.

98 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad

 When we are solving simultaneous equations graphically, the accuracy of the solution is
highly dependent on the quality of the graph. Therefore, all graphs must be drawn on graph
paper as accurately as possible.
It is good practice to verify any answer obtained from a graph by substituting it into the
original equations, or to check using a CAS calculator.

WORKED EXAMPLE 17

Solve the following pair of simultaneous equations:

x + 2y
2 = 4 and
x−y=1
a graphically b graphically using a CAS calculator.

THINK WRITE

a 1 Rule up a set of axes. Label the origin a

and the x and y axes. (See graph at
step 7.)
2 Find the x-intercept for the equation x-intercept: when y = 0,
x + 2y = 4, by making y = 0. x + 2y = 4
x+2×0=4
x=4
The x-intercept is at (4, 0).
3 Find the y-intercept for the equation y-intercept: when x = 0,
x + 2y = 4, by making x = 0. x + 2y = 4
Divide both sides of the equation by 2. 0 + 2y = 4
2y = 4
y=2
The y-intercept is at (0, 2).
4 Plot the points on graph paper and join
them with the straight line. Label the
graph. (Refer to the graph at step 7.)
5 Find the x-intercept for the equation x-intercept: when y = 0,
x − y = 1, by making y = 0. x−y=1
x−0=1
x=1
The x-intercept is at (1, 0).
6 Find the y-intercept for the equation y-intercept: when x = 0,
x − y = 1, by making x = 0. x−y=1
0−y=1
−y = 1
−y × −1 = 1 × −1
Multiply both sides of the equation
by −1. y = −1
The y-intercept is at (0, −1).
7 Plot the points on graph paper and join y
them with the straight line. Label the x y1
graph.
2 x  22yy  4
1 (2, 1)

0 1 2 4x
1

Chapter 2 Linear equations 99

 8 From the graph, read the coordinates of The point of intersection between the two graphs is
the point of intersection. (2, 1).
9 Verify the answer by substituting the Substitute x = 2 and y = 1 into x + 2y = 4.
point of intersection into the original LHS = 2 + 2 × 1 RHS = 4
equations. =2+2
=4
LHS = RHS
Substitute x = 2 and y = 1 into x − y = 1
LHS = 2 − 1 RHS = 1
=1
LHS = RHS
In both cases LHS = RHS; therefore the solution
set (2, 1) is correct.
b 1 Rearrange each equation to make y the b
subject. This can be done on the Main
screen by completing the entry lines as:
solve(x + 2y = 4,y)
solve(x − y = 1,y)
Press E after each entry.

2 On the Graph & Table screen, complete

the entry line as:
4−x
y1 =
2
y2 = x − 1
Tick the y1 and y2 boxes and tap $.
To find the point of intersection, tap:
• Analysis
• G-Solve
• Intersect

3 Write the solution. The point of intersection is (2, 1).

Therefore, x = 2 and y = 1.

eBoo
eBookk plus
Parallel lines
If two equations have the same gradient, they represent parallel lines. Such Digital doc
lines will never meet and so never have a point of intersection (that is, there SkillSHEET 2.4
Parallel lines
is no solution).

100 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 The following pair of equations, y = 2x2 + 3 and y = 2x
2 + 5 define two y
parallel lines; hence there is no solution. The graph to the right 5
5
demonstrates that the straight lines never intersect with each other. +
2x 3
y= +3
Coincidental lines 2x
y=
If two lines coincide, then there are an infinite number of solutions. 0 x
For example, consider the two straight lines given by the equations
y = 2x
2 +1 and 4x − 2y = −2. y

1
Rearranging the second equation, 2x  2
we obtain the same line. 4x − 4xx − 2y = −4x − 2 y  2y

−2y = −4x − 2 4x
− 2y −4x 2
−2
= −2
− −2 0 x
y = 2x
2 +1
Both equations when graphed will represent the same line — they will coincide. Therefore,
every point will represent the solution as there is not one unique point which will satisfy both
equations.

Algebraic solution of simultaneous equations

When using algebra to solve simultaneous equations, the aim is to obtain one equation with one
unknown from two equations with two unknowns by various algebraic manipulations. This can
be done in two ways — substitution and elimination — as outlined below.

Substitution method
The method of substitution is easy to use when at least one of the equations represents one
unknown in terms of the other.
To solve simultaneous equations using the method of substitution:
1. Check that one of the equations is transposed so that one of the unknowns is expressed in
terms of the other.
2. Substitute the transposed equation into the second equation.
3. Solve for the unknown variable

WORKED EXAMPLE 18

Use the method of substitution to solve the following pair of simultaneous equations:
y = 2x
2 + 3 and
4 x − y = 5.

THINK WRITE

1 Write the equations, one under the other, and y = 2x

2 +3 [1]
number them. 4x − y = 5 [2]
2 (2x + 3) from
Substitute the expression (2 (2x + 3) into [2]:
Substituting (2
equation [1] for y into equation [2]. 4x − (2x
(2 + 3) = 5
Note: By substituting one equation into the
other, we are left with one equation and one
unknown.
3 Solve for x.
(a) Expand the brackets on the LHS of the 4x − 2x
2 −3=5
equation.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 101

 (b) Simplify the LHS of the equation by 2 −3=5
2x
collecting like terms.
(c) Add 3 to both sides of the equation. 2 −3+3=5+3
2x
2 =8
2x
(d) Divide both sides of the equation by 2. 2x 8
=
2 2
x=4
4 Substitute 4 in place of x into [1] to find the Substituting x = 4 into [1]:
value of y. y=2×4+3
5 Evaluate. =8+3
= 11
6 Answer the question. Solution: x = 4, y = 11 or solution set (4, 11).
7 Verify the answer by subsituting the point The answer was checked using a CAS calculator and
of intersection into the original equations or found to be correct.
use a graphics calculator.

If neither of the equations give one unknown in terms of the other, we can still use a method of
substitution by first transposing one of the equations.

Elimination method
As the name suggests, the idea of the elimination method is to eliminate one of the variables.
This is done in the following way.
1. Choose the variable you want to eliminate.
2. Make the coefficients of that variable equal in both equations.
3. Eliminate the variable by either adding or subtracting the two equations.
Once this is done, the resulting equation will contain only one unknown which then can be
easily found.

WORKED EXAMPLE 19

Use the elimination method to solve the following:

2 + 3y
2x 3 = 4 and
x − 3y
3 = 2.
THINK WRITE

1 Write the equations, one under the other, and 2x + 3y = 4 [1]

number them. x − 3y = 2 [2]
2 Add equations [1] and [2] in order to [1] + [2]:
eliminate y.
Note: y was eliminated since the coefficients 2 + 3y = 4
2x
of y in both equations were equal in + (x − 3y = 2)
magnitude and opposite in sign. 3x = 6
3 Divide both sides of the equation by 3. 3x 6
=
3 3
x=2
4 Substitute the value of x into equation [2]. Substituting x = 2 into [2]:
Note: x = 2 may be substituted in either 2 − 3y = 2
equation.

102 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
5 Solve for y.
(a) Subtract 2 from both sides of the 2 − 2 − 3y = 2 − 2
equation. −3y = 0
− 3y 0
(b) Divide both sides of the equation by −3. −3
= −
3
y=0
6 Answer the question. Solution: x = 2, y = 0 or solution set (2, 0).
7 Verify the answer by substituting the point The answer was checked using a CAS calculator and
of intersection into the original equations or found to be correct.
using a graphics calculator.

Note: If there is no pair of equal coefficients, we can make them the same by multiplying or
dividing one or both equations by an appropriate number.

WORKED EXAMPLE 20

Find the values of x and y for:

2 + 3y
2x 3 = 4 and
3 + 2y
3x 2 = 10
a by elimination
b using a CAS calculator.

THINK WRITE

a 1 Write the equations, one under the other, a 2 + 3y = 4

2x [1]
and number them. 3x + 2y = 10 [2]
2 Decide which variable to eliminate, say x. Eliminate x.
(a) Multiply equation [1] by 3 and call [1] × 3: 6x + 9y = 12 [3]
the new equation [3].
(b) Multiply equation [2] by 2 and call [2] × 2: 6x + 4y = 20 [4]
the new equation [4].
3 Subtract equation [4] from equation [3]. [3] − [4]:
6x + 9y = 12
−(6x + 4y = 20)

5y = −8
4 Solve for y. 5y − 8
=
Divide both sides of the equation by 5. 5 5
(1)
−
8 − 3
y= or
5 5

5 −8
Substitute the value of y into Substitute y = into [1]:
equation [1]. −8
5
2 +3×
2x =4
5
6 24
Solve for x. 2x − =4
5
24 24 24
(a) Add 24 to both sides of the equation. 2x − 5
+
5
= 4+ 5
5

Chapter 2 Linear equations 103

 20 24
(b) Simplify the RHS of the equation. 2x = 5
+
5
44
= 5
(c) Divide both sides of the equation 44
2x
by 2. = 5
2 2
44 2
= ÷
5 1
44 1
= ×
5 2
x=
22
5 (or 4 )
2
5
2 3
7 Answer the question. Solution: x = 4 5 , y = −1 5 or solution set
(4 2 − 3
5
, 1
5 ).
b 1 Write the equations. 2x + 3y = 4
3x + 2y = 10
2 On the Main screen, using the soft
keyboard, tap:
• )
• {N
Complete the entry line as shown at
right and press E.

3 Write the solution. Solving 2x + 3y = 4 and 3x + 2y = 10 for x and

y gives
−
22 8
x= and y = .
5 5

Note: The answer can be verified by substituting the point of intersection into the original
equations.

REMEMBER

Simultaneous linear equations can be solved either graphically or algebraically.

1. Graphical method
Draw the straight lines representing the equations and find the coordinates of the point
of intersection.
2. Algebraic methods
(a) Substitution: Transpose one of the equations so that one of the unknowns is
expressed in terms of the other and substitute into the second equation.
(b) Elimination: Equate the coefficients of one unknown and eliminate it by either
adding or subtracting the two equations.

104 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 EXERCISE
2E Simultaneous equations
1 WE17 Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations:
i graphically i i graphically using a CAS Calculator.
−x
a x+y=6 b 3x + y = 6 c + 3y = 3
x−y=2 x − 2y = 2 2x + 3y = 12
d y = 2x − 6 e x=y+2 f 3x + 2y = −6
4x − y = 8 2y − x = 0 y=1−x
2 MC The pair of simultaneous equations y = 5 − x and y = −x − 1 will have:
A 1 solution B 2 solutions C no solutions
D an infinite number of solutions E none of these
3 MC The pair of simultaneous equations 2x − 2y = 4 and y − x + 2 = 0 will have:
eBook plus
A 1 solution B 2 solutions C no solutions
Digital doc D an infinite number of solutions E none of these
SkillSHEET 2.4
4 Complete the following statements.
Parallel lines
a If two lines with different gradients go through the origin, then the solution to the pair of
simultaneous equations defining those lines would be ____________ (give coordinates).
b If two lines have the same gradient but different y-intercept, then the pair of simultaneous
equations defining such lines will have ____________ solution(s).
c If both lines are defined by the equation y = mx + c and have the same value of c but a
different value of m, then the solution to such pairs of simultaneous equations will be
____________ (give coordinates).
5 WE18 Solve the following pairs of simultaneous equations by the method of substitution.
a y = 2x + 3 b x=y c y = 3x − 6
6x + y = 11 6x − 2y = 10 y = 16 + 5x
d x = −y e 2y − 6 = x f x=5−4y
3x − 6y = 36 7x + 3y = −25 2y − 3x = 13
6 WE19 Use the method of elimination to solve each of the following:
a 2x + y = 3 b x + 2y = 5 c x−y=7
4x − y = −9 x − 4y = 2 y + x = −1
d 3x − 2y = −1 e x + 3y = 7 f 2x + 4y = 24
3x − 6y = −9 5x − 3y = −19 −6x + 4y = 8

g 2x − y = 0 h x+y=8
2x − 4y = −9 −x + 7y = 32

7 MC Nathan is solving a pair of simultaneous equations 2x − 3y = 5 [1] and 3x + 4y = 10 [2],

using the elimination method. To eliminate one of the variables, he could multiply equation [1]
and equation [2] by:
A 2 and 3 respectively B 3 and 4 respectively C 3 and 2 respectively
D 5 and 10 respectively E 4 and 2 respectively
8 WE20 Solve each of the following pairs of equations using the elimination method.
2 1
a 2x − 3y = 8 b x − 2y = −4 c x+ 3y=5
3
3x + 4y = −5 3x + y = 9 2x − y = −3
1
d 2
x + 2y = 0 e 2y − x = −10 f 5y − 2x = 4
x − 3y = −7 x + 3y = −5 6x + y = 4
1 3
g y + 3x = 17 h 5
x+ 5y=5
2x − 3y = 4 2y + x = 20

Chapter 2 Linear equations 105

 Question 9 refers to the diagram at right.
y [1]
9 MC a The equation of line [1] is: [2]
2 2
A y= 3x−2 B y = 2x
2 −2 1
1
C y= 2x−2 D y = 2x
2 +1 0 x
1 3
–1
E y = 2 + 2x
2
–2
b The equation of line [2] is:
2 2 −2
A y= 3x+2 B y = 3 x+3 C y= 3
x−2
D 3y = 2x
2 +6 E 3y + 2x
2 =6
c The point of intersection of the two lines has the coordinates:
A (,)
3 1
2 2 ( )
B 2, 2
1
C (2, 1) D ( , 1)
3
2 E ( 2, )
3
2

10 The lines y + 8 = 0 and x − 12 = 0 intersect at the point:

A (−12, 8) B (−8, 12) C (0, 0) D (8, −12) E (12, −8)
[VCAA 2004]

11 For the pair of simultaneous equations 22x − 3y = 7 and 3x = 5 − y the solution is:
A x = −2, y = −1 B x = −1, y = −3 C x = −1, y = 2
− −
D x = 2, y = 3 E x = 2, y = 1
[VCAA 2003]
−5 −x
12 Two lines have equations y = and y = + 5 respectively. The point that lies on both of
these lines is:
A (−10, 5) B (−5, 5) C (0, −5) D (5, −5) E (10, −5)
[VCAA 2005]

13 Here are 3 simultaneous equations with 3 unknowns. Find the values of x, y and z.
2 + 3y − z = −7
2x 3x + 2y + z = 2 x − 4y + 2z = 15
14 The graph at right represents the following information. At a
certain factory, the cost of producing n1 pairs of adult’s shoes
C A
is given by C1 = 198 + 15n1 and the cost of producing n2 pairs
of children’s shoes is given by C2 = 135 + 22n2.
Z
Cost ($)

a Which of the lines, A or Z, represents the cost of 198

producing adult’s shoes and which one represents the 135
cost of producing children’s shoes?
b Why do you think the lines representing cost do not start 0 n
No. of pairs of shoes
at the origin and what could numbers 135 and 198 on the
vertical axis represent?
c Find the number of shoes that should be produced so that the cost of production of both
types is the same.
d Find the cost for producing the number of
pairs in part c .
e Where on the graph can this number, as in
part c , and this cost, as in part d , be found?
f What does the portion of the graph to the left
of the point of intersection tell us?
g What does the portion of the graph to the
right of the point of intersection tell us?
h What could the coefficients of n in the
equations of the cost mean, in terms of
production?

106 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 2F Solving problems using simultaneous
equations
Simultaneous equations are used to solve a variety of problems containing more than one
unknown. Here is a simple algorithm which can be applied to any of them:
1. Identify the variables.
2. Set up simultaneous equations by transforming written information into algebraic sentences.
3. Solve the equations by using the substitution, elimination or graphical methods.
4. Interpret your answer by referring back to the original problem.

WORKED EXAMPLE 21

Find two consecutive numbers which add up to 99.

THINK WRITE

1 Define the two variables. Let x = the first number.

Let y = the second number.
2 Formulate two equations from the x + y = 99 [1]
information given and number them. y=x+1 [2]
Note: Consecutive numbers follow one
another and differ by 1. Hence, if x is the first
number, the next number will be
x + 1 — that is, y = x + 1.
3 Substitute the expression (x + 1) from Substituting (x + 1) into [1]:
equation [2] for y into equation [1]. x + x + 1 = 99
4 Solve for x.

(a) Simplify the LHS of the equation by 2 + 1 = 99

2x
collecting like terms.

(b) Subtract 1 from both sides of the 2 + 1 − 1 = 99 − 1

2x
equation. 2 = 98
2x
2 x 98
(c) Divide both sides of the equation by 2. =
2 2
x = 49
5 Substitute 49 in place of x into equation [1] Substituting x = 49 into equation [2]:
to find the value of y. y=x+1

6 Evaluate. y = 49 + 1
= 50

7 Verify the answer by checking that the 49 and 50 are consecutive numbers.
two values are consecutive and that they 49 + 50 = 99
sum 99. The obtained values satisfy the problem.
8 Answer the question. The two consecutive numbers which add up to 99 are
49 and 50.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 107

 WORKED EXAMPLE 22
eBoo
eBookk plus
Two hamburgers and a packet of chips cost $8.20, while 1 hamburger and Tutorial
2 packets of chips cost $5.90. Find the cost of a packet of chips and a hamburger. int-0861
Worked example 22
THINK WRITE

1 Define the two variables. Let x = the cost of one hamburger.

Let y = the cost of a packet of chips.
2 Formulate an equation from the first sentence 2 + y = 8.20
2x [1]
and call it [1].
Note: 1 hamburger costs $x, 2 hamburgers
cost $2
$2x. Thus, the total cost of cost of 2
hamburgers and 1 packet of chips is 22x + y and
it is equal to $8.20.
3 Formulate an equation from the second x + 2y = 5.90 [2]
sentence and call it [2].
Note: 1 packet of chips costs $y, 2 packets cost
$2y. Thus, the total cost of 2 packets of chips
and 1 hamburger is x + 2y and it is equal to
$5.90.
4 Eliminate the variable x.
(a) Multiply equation [2] by 2 and call it [2] × 2: (x + 2y = 5.90) × 2
equation [3]. 2 + 4y = 11.80
2x [3]
(b) Subtract equation [1] from equation [3]. [3] − [1]: 22x + 4y = 11.80
−(2x
(2 + y = 8.20)
3y = 3.60
3 y 3.660
(c) Divide both sides of the equation by 3. =
3 3
y = 1.20
5 Solve for x.
(a) Substitute y = 1.20 into equation [1]. Substituting 1.20 into [1]:
2 + 1.20 = 8.20
2x
(b) Subtract 1.20 from both sides of the 2 + 1.20 − 1.20 = 8.20 − 1.20
2x
equation. 2 = 7.00
2x
2 x 7.000
(c) Divide both sides of the equation by 2. =
2 2
x = 3.50
6 Answer the question and include appropriate A hamburger costs $3.50 and a packet of chips costs
units. $1.20.
7 Verify the answer by substituting the values The answer was checked using a calculator and found
into the original equations or using a graphics to be correct.
calculator.

It is extremely important to be consistent with the use of units while setting up equations.
For example, if the cost of each item is expressed in cents, then the total cost must also be
expressed in cents.

108 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
 REMEMBER

To solve problems involving simultaneous equations, follow these steps:

1. Identify and define the variables.
2. Transform written information into algebraic statements.
3. Solve the pair of equations graphically or algebraically using the methods of
substitution or elimination.
4. Interpret the result by relating the answer back to the problem.
5. Always make sure the numbers in the equations are in the same units.

EXERCISE
2F Solving problems using simultaneous equations
1 WE21 Find two consecutive numbers which add up to 89.
eBoo
eBookk plus 1
2 The sum of two numbers is 20, while their difference is 5 of their sum. Find the numbers.
Digital doc
3 One number is twice as large as the other. Five times the smaller number is 24 more than the
Spreadsheet 121
Simultaneous
larger number. Find the numbers.
equations 4 The sum of two consecutive even numbers is the same as the product of two consecutive
numbers, of which 7 is the largest. Find the numbers.
5 When three times the first number is added to twice the second number, the result is 13. Four
times the difference of those numbers is 44. Find the numbers.
6 Half of the sum of two numbers is 6 less than the first number. One-third  1  of their difference
3
is one less than the second number. Find the numbers.
7 Five times the first number is twice as large as 4 times the second number. When the difference
of the two numbers is multiplied by 20, the result is 3. Find the numbers.
8 The average of two numbers is 11. Their difference is 3 more than that. Find the numbers.
9 A rectangle’s length is 2 cm more than its width. If the perimeter of a rectangle is 24 cm, find
its dimensions and, hence, its area.
10 An isosceles triangle, with equal sides each 2 cm longer than the third side,
is constructed on a side of a square. If the perimeter of the triangle is 28 cm,
find the perimeter of the square.

11 In the rectangle at right, find the values of x and y. (2 1) cm

(2x
Hence, determine the perimeter.
(x  2) cm 10 cm

(5  y) cm

12 The sides of an equilateral triangle have the following lengths: ((x + y)) cm, (2
(2x − 3) cm
and (3y − 1) cm. Find the perimeter of the triangle.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 109

 13 The perimeter of a rhombus ABCD is 10 cm longer than the B
perimeter of an isosceles triangle ABC. Find the length of AC, the
diagonal of a rhombus, if it is 2 cm smaller than its side.

A C

14 A table consists of 2 columns and 5 rows. Each of its cells is a rectangle with length x cm and
width y cm. The perimeter of the table is 70 cm and the total length of interior lines is 65 cm.
a Draw a diagram to represent the above information.
b Find the dimensions of each cell and comment on its shape.
15 Phuong conducts a survey. She asks 72 people whether or not they use the Internet at home.
There were three times as many people who answered ‘Yes’ as those who answered ‘No’.
Find the number of people in each category and hence help Phuong to complete the following
statement:
‘According to the survey _____________ (insert fraction) of the population uses the Internet
at home.’
16 WE22 At the end of the day, two shop assistants compare their sales. One sold 5 toasters and
2 sandwich-makers for a total of $149.65, while the other sold 3 of each for a total value of
$134.70. Find the price of each item.
17 At lunch time, Michael bought 2 egg and bacon rolls and 5 egg and vegetable rolls. He
received $3.20 change from a $20 note. If an egg and bacon roll costs 70c more than an egg
and vegetable roll, how much did each roll cost?
18 In an aquatic centre, a ‘pool and spa’ entry is $3.50, while ‘pool, spa, sauna and steam room’
entry is $5.20. At the end of the day, a cashier finds that she sold 193 tickets altogether and her
takings are 40c short of $800. How many of each type of ticket were sold?

19 Spiro empties his piggy bank. He has 42 coins, some of which are 5c coins and some of which
are 10c coins, to the total value of $2.50. How many 5c coins and how many 10c coins does
he have?

110 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
20 Maya and Rose are buying meat for a picnic. Maya’s family likes lamb more than pork, so she
buys 3 kg of lamb and only half as much pork. Rose’s family have different tastes, so she buys
4.5 kg of pork and one-third as much lamb. If Maya spends $13.50, which is $8.25 less than
Rose spends, what is the cost of 1 kg of each type of meat?
21 Rachel is 4 times as old as her brother Nathan. If she will be twice as old as him in two years
time, how old is she now?
22 Bella and Boris are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. Today, their combined age
is exactly 100. If Boris is 4 years older than Bella, how old was his bride on the day of their
wedding?
23 Interpreting Pty Ltd translates each English text into both French and Japanese. It takes a
French interpreter 0.6 hours to translate a page of any scientific text and 1 hour to translate a
page of fiction. A Japanese interpreter needs 0.95 hours to translate scientific text and 1.5 hours
for fiction. If the French interpreter works 8 hours a day, while the Japanese interpreter is
prepared to take some of her work home and spend up to 12.5 hours per day altogether, what is
the maximum number of pages of each type of text that can be translated each day by
Interpreting Pty Ltd?
24 Sasha is making dim sims and spring
rolls for his guests. He is going to prepare
everything first and then cook. On average it
takes 0.2 hours to prepare one portion of dim
sims and 0.25 hours to prepare one portion
of spring rolls. He needs 0.05 hours and
0.15 hours to cook each portion of dim sims
and spring rolls respectively. If he spends
2 hours on preparation and 51 minutes on
cooking, how many portions of dim sims
and spring rolls does Sasha make?

25 As a space shuttle or rocket is launched, the astronauts inside experience a great deal of stress.
An astronaut’s heart pumps twice as much blood per minute during rocket launch as under
normal conditions. That is, the heart pumps about 4.7 litres more blood each minute during a
launch than when the astronaut is at rest on the ground.
a Write two equations linking the heart’s rate of pumping blood under normal conditions to
that during launch.
b Solve these equations to find the heart’s rate of pumping blood for the astronaut under
both normal and launch conditions.

Chapter 2 Linear equations 111

 SUMMARY
Linear equations
• A linear equation is an equation which contains a pronumeral raised to the power of 1.
• Linear equations are solved by using inverse operations. When solving linear equations, the order of
operations process, BODMAS, is reversed.

Solving problems using linear equations

• To solve worded problems using linear equations, follow these steps:
1. Identify the variables.
2. Set up an equation by transforming the written information into an algebraic statement or statements.
3. Solve the equation.
4. Interpret the result by relating the answer back to the original problem.

Substitution and transposition in linear relations

• If all the variables but one are known in a formula, the value of the unknown variable may be found by
substituting the known values into the formula.
• Transposition is the rearrangement of the formula.
• The subject of the formula is the variable which is by itself on one side of the equation, while all other
variables are on the other side of the equation.

Linear recursion relationships

• A linear recurrence relation describes a set of values, where each term after the first term is obtained by
adding the same number to the preceding term. It is given by the relation tn = tn − 1 + d, t0 = a.
• When the linear recurrence relation is rearranged to tn − tn − 1 = d, t0 = a, the new relation shows the
difference between two consecutive terms and is called a linear difference equation.
• Every linear difference equation has a corresponding linear equation tn = dn + a.
• Tables of values, generated by a CAS calculator or a spreadsheet, are valuable tools in solving problems
involving linear recursion.

Simultaneous equations
• Simultaneous linear equations can be solved either graphically or algebraically.
1. Graphical method
Draw the straight lines representing the equations and find the coordinates of the point of intersection.
2. Algebraic methods
(a) Substitution: Transpose one of the equations so that one of the unknowns is expressed in terms of the
other and substitute into the second equation.
(b) Elimination: Equate the coefficients of one unknown and eliminate it by either adding or subtracting
the two equations.

Solving problems using simultaneous equations

1. Identify and define the variables.
2. Transform written information into algebraic statements.
3. Solve the pair of equations graphically or algebraically, using the methods of substitution or elimination.
4. Interpret the result by relating the answer back to the problem.
5. Always make sure the numbers in the equations are in the same units.

112 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
CHAPTER REVIEW
MULTIPLE CHOICE Questions 10 and 11 refer to the shape below.
2x
1 The solution to the equation − 5 = −1 is: 10 Using π = 22 , the perimeter of a
3 7
A 1 B 2 C 3 D 5 E 6 certain shape is given by
3x 11x
2 To solve 12 − = 6, the following operations P= x+x+x+ .
4 7
could be performed to both sides of the equation: When transposed to make
A Add 12; multiply by 4; divide by −3 x the subject, x is:
B Multiply by 4; divide by −3; subtract 12 7P 32 C 7P − 14
C Multiply by −4; divide by 3; subtract 12 A 32 B
D Subtract 12; multiply by 4; divide by −3 7P
7P 7( P − 3)
E Multiply by 4; subtract 12; divide by −3 D E
14 11
3 The equation which is the same as
11 If the perimeter of the above shape is 8 cm, then x
2(3x − 1) = 5x + 3 is:
is equal to:
A 6x6 = 5x + 1 B 11x = 5 C x−2=3
A 4 cm B 42 cm
D −2 = 11x + 3 E 11x − 2 = 3 7

4 The number that satisfies the equation C 4 cm D 3 2 cm

11
1 − 2x x E 1.75 cm
+ = 2 is:
3 4
A 4 B 3 3
D −4 E −3 12 The linear equation corresponding to the difference
C 4
6 8 4 equation tn − tn − 1 = 6, t0 = −3 is:
5 The number that satisfies the equation − = A tn = 6n − 3 B tn = tn − 1 + 6, t0 = −3
x +1 x x
is: C tn = 6 − 3n D tn = tn − 1 − 3, t0 = 6
A 12 B 6 C 2 D −2 E −6 E tn = 6ttn − 1 = 3
6 If 3 times a number subtracted from 6 gives 9, then
13 The fourth term of the recurrence relation
the number is:
tn = tn − 1 − 2, t0 = 12 is:
A 5 B −1 C 1 D
1
E 3
3 A 2 B 0 C 8
7 The perimeter of a regular hexagon is 12.6 cm D 6 E 4
more than the perimeter of a square with the same
14 A second-hand car purchased for $5000 loses
side length. The length of the side of a hexagon is:
$500 of its value each year. This situation is not
A 2.1 cm B 3.15 cm C 1.26 cm described by:
D 12.6 cm E 6.3 cm A tn = tn − 1 − 500, t0 = 5000
8 When half a number is subtracted from 8, the result B tn − tn − 1 = −500, t0 = 5000
is the same as adding double that number to 2. The C tn = 5000 − 500n
equation that matches this information is: D tn = 500n + 5000
x x E tn + 1 = tn − 500, t1 = 5000
A 2x − 8 = + 2 B 8 − 2x = 2 +
2 2 15 A difference equation is defined by
x x
C 8 − = 2 + 2x D + 8 = 2x + 2 fn + 1 − fn = 5, where f1 = −1
2 2 The sequence f1, f2, f3, … is:
x
E − 8 = 2x + 2 A 5, 4, 3 … B 4, 9, 14 … C−1, −6, −11 …
2
2B + 3 D −1, 4, 9 … E −1, 6, 11 …
9 If A = is transposed to make B the subject,
then: 4
EXAM TIP 46% of all students answered this
3 4A + 3 C B = 2A
2 −3
A B = 2A − 2 B B= question correctly.
2 [Assessment report 2006]
3 3
D B = 4A − 2 E B = 4A + 2
[VCAA 2006]

Chapter 2 Linear equations 113

 16 The sum of solutions of the pair of simultaneous 24 One afternoon at the beach Mr Smith bought four
equations y + x = 12 and 22y − x = 6 is: ice creams and three drinks for his family at a cost
A 36 B 12 C 20 of $21.40.
D 24 E 18 Mrs Brown bought five of the same ice creams
and two of the same drinks for $20.80. Based on
17 If y = 3x − 4 and y = 5 + 4x
4 , then the values of x and
these prices, the cost of one drink is:
y respectively are:
A $2.80 B $2.90 C $3.00
A −9, −31 B 9, 31 D $3.30 E $3.40 [VCAA 2005]
C −31, −9 D −9, 31
−
E 9, 31 SHORT ANSWER
18 The point of intersection of the 2 lines is: 1 Solve for x.
A (1, 3) y 2 x − 3 6 − 3x − 7x
( )
1
B 12 ,3 2
1
4 5
−
4
= 2+
3
2 Before opening the store, a cashier makes sure that
C (1 3 )
1 1
, 2 his register contains at least $5 in change. He counts
5 5

D (1 3 )
1 1 a number of 10c coins, twice as many 5c coins and
, –2 0 x
9 9
–1
5 4 times as many 20c coins to the total value of exactly
E (2, 3) $5. How many coins of each type does he count?
3 A building company charges a $2300 set fee plus
19 The statement below which is not true for $500 a day while it is working on a project within
the pair of simultaneous equations y + x = 22 the time limits that are specified by a contract.
and 3x − y = 26 is: If the project is completed earlier than the set time,
A The sum of the numbers is 22. the company will still charge $500 for each of
B 3 times the first number is 26 larger than the the remaining days. However, if the project is not
second number. completed by the due date, the company will pay
C 3 times 1 number is 26 smaller than the other a $135 penalty for each extra day until the work is
number. done. From the given information, construct a set of
D The difference between 3 times 1 number and formulas for the total cost of work, T T, the number
the other is 26. of days it takes to complete the job according to the
E When 1 number is subtracted from 22, the contract, n, and the number of extra days, e.
other number is obtained.
20 Which one of the following pairs of simultaneous
linear equations has no solution?
A 3x − y = 5 2 −y=1
B 2x
4x + y = 9 4x − 2y = 3
C x + 3y = 0 D x − 3y = 10
2 −y=7
2x 3x + 2y = 8
E 4x + y = 6
2 −y=0
2x [VCAA 2007] 4 Transpose each of the following formulas to make
21 The point of intersection of two lines is (2, −2). One the pronumeral, indicated in brackets, the subject.
of these two lines could be: (If two pronumerals are indicated, make a separate
A x−y=0 2 + 2y = 8
B 2x transposition for each.)
C 2x2 + 2y = 0 2 − 2y = 4
D 2x a 6x − 12y + 15 = 0 (x)
E 2x2 − 2y = 0 [VCAA 2006] b 7(3 − 4 d ) = 8(e + 7) − 3 (d, e)
22 The sum of two numbers is 42 and their difference 5 3
5 The linear recurrence relation is given by
is 4. The smaller of the numbers is:
tn = tn − 1 + 3, t0 = 7.
A 23 B 17 C 18 D 19 E 24 a Write the first 4 terms of the relation.
23 Ben is 1 year short of being twice as old as Ester. If b Write the corresponding difference equation.
their ages total 20 years, Ben is: c Write the rule connecting the nth term with n.
A 11 B 12 C 13 D 14 E 15 Hence, find the 20th term.

114 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
6 Anna has invested $2000 for a 4.5% simple interest a Find the equations of the two lines shown on
that is credited to her account at the end of each the diagram.
financial year. b Find the coordinates of the point of intersection
a Write the difference equation to represent this (the diagram is not drawn to scale).
situation. 8 Solve the following simultaneous equations.
b Anna is planning to visit her Aunt Rose who a 6x + 2y = 12
lives in Perth. She estimates that she will need x − 2y = 2
$2500. If Anna is going to use her investment
b 8y − 24 = 4x
to finance the trip, how soon will she be able to
7x + 3y = −25
go to Perth?
c 15 − 3x − 3y = 30
7 y
2 + y = −4
2x
4
9 Jessica is 3 years older than Rebecca. In 5 years she
2 will be 3 times as old as Rebecca was 2 years ago.
Find the girls’ present ages.
1 0 x
8

EXTENDED RESPONSE

1 Adrian has begun a new job as a car salesman. His fortnightly wage is calculated in two parts: the first, a set
amount of $600; the second, 2% of sales made each fortnight.
a Write the rule describing Adrian’s fortnightly wage.
b How much can Adrian expect to take home if he makes:
i $20 000 ii $65 000 iii $100 000
in sales in a particular fortnight?
c How much must Adrian make in sales in order to obtain a fortnightly wage of:
i $1300 ii $1800 iii $2400?
Brett, also a salesman in the motor vehicle industry, is paid a fortnightly salary of $860 regardless of
sales made.
d Compare Adrian’s fortnightly wage to Brett’s fortnightly salary.
e Write the rule describing Brett’s fortnightly salary.
f How much would Adrian have to make in sales in one fortnight to obtain the same amount as Brett
takes home?
2 Joseph has $15 000 to invest. He does not want to ‘keep all of his eggs in the one basket’, so he decides to
split the money in the following ways. He puts some of his money in the bank, which offers an interest rate of
6% p.a., and the remainder into a building society, which offers an interest rate of 11% p.a. If Joseph plans to
take a trip to Queensland, costing $1200, and he wants to pay for the trip using only the interest earned from
his investments after 1 year, how must he split his $15 000?
3 Michael wishes to rent a car for a long weekend. The cost, C, of renting a Toyota Corolla from company A is
given by
C = 25 + 0.08n, and the cost of renting from company B C
C = 40 + 0.05n, where n is the number of kilometres travelled. [2]
a Which company, A or B, does line [1] represent?
Cost ($)

[1]
b What could the numbers 25 and 40 represent?
40
c What does the point of intersection of lines [1] and [2] represent?
25
d Find the coordinates of the point of intersection.
e If Michael decides to travel along the Great Ocean Road, which is about 0 Number of km n
350 km each way, from which company, A or B, should he rent so that
he pays less?
f Next long weekend, Michael is planning to go to Phillip Island, which is about 150 km each way. From
which company should he rent this time?

Chapter 2 Linear equations 115

 g Explain to Michael how he can decide from
which company to rent, if he knows the
approximate distance he intends to travel,
without doing any calculations.
h Write the formula for d, the difference
between the cost of renting the car from the
two companies (A or B).
i Write the difference equation which
corresponds to the equation in part h .
j Use the difference equation to generate
a table of values for distances from 0 to
1000 km inclusive, with increments of
100 km. Hence, find the distance for which
the cost of renting from company A will
exceed the cost of renting from company B
by more than 10 km.
4 A clothing manufacturer finds that the cost, C dollars, of producing x shirts is given by the equation C = 8x + 2400.
a Determine the cost of producing 400 shirts.
b Determine the maximum number of shirts that can be EXAM TIP Generally well answered
produced for $3000. [Assessment report 2004]
c Assuming all the shirts are sold, the revenue,
R dollars, from the sale of x shirts produced is given
by an equation R = 23x.
A graph of the revenue equation R = 23xx for
0 ≤ x ≤ 400 is drawn on the axes below. 10 000
On these same axes draw a graph of the cost 9 000 R  23
23xx
equation C = 8x + 2400 for 0 ≤ x ≤ 400.
8 000
d Determine the number of shirts that need to be
produced and sold for the manufacturer to break 7 000
Dollars ($)

even. 6 000

EXAM TIP This could have been calculated or read off

5 000
the graph. 4 000
[Assessment report 2004]
3 000
e Given the cost equation is C = 8x + 2400 and the 2 000
revenue equation is R = 23x, write an equation
1 000
for the profit, P dollars, from the production and
sale of x shirts. 0 x
50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450
EXAM TIP The most common error was in simplifying Number of shirts
P = R − C where brackets were not applied to the cost
function. This gave the incorrect answer of
P = 15x + 2400. This was awarded one of the two
available marks.
The relationship of P = R − C does not seem to be well
understood by a number of students. EXAM TIP This mark was awarded for a correct
[Assessment report 2004]
substitution in the student’s equation for part e .
[Assessment report 2004]

f Calculate the profit from the production and sale

of 345 shirts.
g The manufacturer also produces jackets. They receive EXAM TIP Several students wrote this as $31.2
an order for 250 jackets. The cost of producing the which was awarded the mark, although teachers
should address such notation in class.
250 jackets is $4800. Determine the selling price per [Assessment report 2004]
jacket to achieve an overall profit of $3000. [VCAA 2004]

116 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad
5 Novak Novelties manufactures a variety of children’s 3-D puzzles. The director of the company has asked
his assistants Caitlin, Bridget and Emese to prepare a report on production costs, expenses and returns on the
puzzles. Each puzzle costs the company $15 to produce. In addition, the company has monthly overheads of
$21 000. The selling price of each puzzle is $45.
a Write an equation describing the expenses; that is, the total cost, C, of producing n puzzles each month.
b Write an equation describing the selling price of n puzzles.
c Plot and label the graph of the equation obtained in part a . Does it commence at the origin? Explain.
d Plot and label the graph of the equation obtained in part b on the same axis. Does it commence at the
origin? Explain.
e The point of intersection of the two lines on your graph is called the break-even point. Explain what this
means in terms of the given problem.
f Find the coordinates of the break-even point (point of intersection).
g Shade the portion between the two lines to the left of the break-even point. Explain what this portion
represents.
h Shade the portion between the two lines to the right of the break-even point. Explain what this portion
represents.
Profit may be defined as the selling price minus the total cost.
i Write an equation describing the profit obtained, P, after selling n puzzles.
j Determine whether a profit or loss is made when:
i 400 ii 600 iii 800 iv 1000 puzzles are sold in a particular month.

eBoo
eBookk plus

Digital doc
Test Yourself
Chapter 2

Chapter 2 Linear equations 117

 eBook plus ACTIVITIES

Chapter opener
Digital doc
• 10 Quick Questions: Warm up with ten quick
questions on linear equations. (page 71)
2A Linear equations
Tutorial
• WE5 int-0857: Watch how to solve a linear equation
involving fractions. (page 75)
Digital docs
• SkillSHEET 2.1: Practise solving linear equations.
(page 76)
• SkillSHEET 2.2: Practise finding the lowest
common multiple. (page 77)
2E Simultaneous equations
2B Solving problems using linear equations Digital doc
Tutorial • SkillSHEET 2.4: Practise working with parallel
• WE8 int-0858: Watch how to define variables, set lines. (page 100, 105)
up linear equations and solve them to answer an
application question. (page 80) 2F Solving problems using simultaneous
Digital doc
equations
• WorkSHEET 2.1: Construct and solve linear Tutorial
equations algebraically. (page 83) • WE22 int-0861: Watch how to use the elimination
method to solve a set of simultaneous equations.
2C Substitution and transposition in linear (page 108)
relations Digital doc
Tutorial • Spreadsheet 121: Investigate solving simultaneous
• WE 11 int-0859: Watch how to graph the relationship equations. (page 109)
between interest and rate of interest and use the
graph to determine amounts of interest for set rates Chapter review
and rates for set interest amounts. (page 86) Digital doc
Digital doc • Test Yourself Chapter 2: Take the end-of-chapter test
• WorkSHEET 2.2: Solve and transpose linear to test your progress. (page 117)
equations. (page 91)
To access eBookPLUS activities, log on to
2D Linear recursion relationships
www.jacplus.com.au
Interactivity
• Linear recursion relationships int-0803: Consolidate
your understanding of linear recursion relationships.
(page 92)
Tutorial
• WE 15 int-0860: Watch how to use the information
provided in a table determine the linear difference
equation and the linear relation between the term
and the number of terms. (page 94)
Digital doc
• SkillSHEET 2.3: Practise linear recursion
relationships. (page 96)

118 Maths Quest 11 Standard General Mathematics for the Casio ClassPad