Systems of Equations: Consistent, Inconsistent, Dependent, Independent


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Examples, solutions, videos, worksheets, games, and activities to help Algebra students learn how to apply systems of linear equations.




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Systems of Equations

A system of equations is a set of two or more equations with the same set of variables. Systems are classified based on whether they have solutions (consistent) or no solution (inconsistent).

The following diagrams show consistent and inconsistent systems. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions of consistent and inconsistent systems.

Consistent Inconsistent Systems
 

Algebra Worksheets
Practice your skills with the following worksheets:
Printable & Online Algebra Worksheets

Free Algebra Games
Distributive Property Evaluate Algebraic Expressions Evaluate Expressions (Exponents)
Simplify Algebraic Expressions Solve Equations Systems of Equations
Inequalities on the Number Line Solve Inequalities Multiply Binomials
(y+b)(y+d)
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(ay+b)(cy+d)
Solve Quadratic Equations

 

1. Consistent System
Definition: A system with at least one solution.
Types:
Independent: Exactly one unique solution (lines intersect at one point).
Dependent: Infinitely many solutions (lines are identical).

How to Identify
Graphically:
Independent: Lines intersect at one point.
Dependent: Lines overlap completely.

Algebraically:
Solve the system.
Independent: Get One solution.
Dependent: A true statement (e.g., 0 = 0).

2. Inconsistent Systems
Definition: A system with no solution (lines are parallel and never intersect).

How to Identify
Graphically: Lines are parallel and distinct.
Algebraically: Solving leads to a false statement (e.g., 0 = 5).

Videos

Consistent and Inconsistent Systems

Consistent and Inconsistent

Independent and Dependent Systems

Substitution (Dependent & Inconsistent)




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