In Math, a linear equation is an equation with the highest power equal to 1. When this kind of equation consists of two variables, let’s say x and y, it is said to be a linear equation of two variables. The general form of this kind of equation is:
a x + b y = c
Here, a, b, and c are the constant. While x and y are variables.
Linear equations are named so because when these equations are plotted to a graph or cartesian plan, they form the shape of a line. For example:
.
Making equations from word problems involves translating a situation or relationship described in words into a mathematical equation. You will identify the variable, give data, and the relationship between quantities. Given this information, you can formulate a linear equation to represent the situation that can be solved to find the unknown values.
For Example: In a cricket match, two batters, namely Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, scored 200 runs combined. How will you represent this situation in maths?
Solution: Let runs scored by Virat Kohli = x
Let runs scored by Shubman Gill = y
According to the question,
x + y = 200
Finding the Solutions:
Step 1: Convert the equation (if not already) to Standard form. That is:
a x + b y = c
Step 2: Use the hit and trial method and put various values for x and y.
Step 3: By putting the value of x or y, you will get the ordered pair of (x,y). These values are called the solutions of any equation.
Question 1: Find the value of k in the given equation kx + 9y = 18 if x = 2 and y = 1
Solution: put x = 2 and y = 1 in the given equation.
Question 2: write at least 3 solutions of the given equation.
Solution(A): 4x+9y=24
B) 6x+7y=21
Question 3: In a stationery shop a salesman sells a drawing book that is thrice the cost of a pen. Construct a linear equation based on the following information.
Solution:
Let the price of the drawing book = x
Let the price of the pen = y
According to the question,
x = 3y
x - 3y = 0
(Session 2025 - 26)