Systems of equations are a group of relationships between various unknown variables which can be expressed in terms of algebraic expressions. The solutions for a simple system of equation can be obtained by graphing, substitution, and elimination addition. These methods became too cumbersome to be used for more complex systems however, and a method involving matrices is used to find solutions. Systems of equations have played an important part in the development of business and quicker methods for solutions continue to be explored.

Unknowns and linear equations

Many times, mathematical problems involve relationships between two variables. For example, the distance that a car moving 55 mph travels in a unit of time can be described by the equation y = 55x. In this case, y is the distance traveled, x is the time and the equation is known as a linear equation in two variables. Note...