How to Determine the Classification of a System of Equations?

A Step-by-step Guide to Determining the Classification of a System of Equations

Here are the basic steps to follow:

Step 1: Understand the types of classification

The classification of a system of equations refers to the possible solutions it can have. There are typically three classifications:

• Consistent and independent: The system has one unique solution. The graphs of the equations in the system will intersect at a single point.
• Consistent and dependent: The system has an infinite number of solutions. This usually means that the equations in the system are multiples of each other, resulting in identical lines when graphed.
• Inconsistent: The system has no solution. The lines represented by the equations in the system are parallel and never intersect.

Step 2: Write down your system of equations

Let’s say, for example, you have a system of two linear equations in two variables:

Equation \(1\): \(a_1x + b_1y = c_1\)
Equation \(2\): \(a_2x + b_2y = c_2\)

Step 3: Check if the system is inconsistent

Check if the ratios of the coefficients of \(x\) and \(y\) between Equation \(1\) and Equation \(2\) are equal, but the constant terms on the right side of the equation are not in the same ratio. If this is true, then the system is inconsistent, and it has no solution.

That is, if \(\frac{a_1}{a_2}=\frac{b_1}{b_2}≠\frac{c_1}{c_2}\), then the system is inconsistent.

Step 4: Check if the system is dependent

If all coefficients (including the constant terms on the right side) between Equation \(1\) and Equation \(2\) are in the same ratio, then the system is consistent and dependent, meaning it has infinite solutions.

That is, if \(\frac{a_1}{a_2}=\frac{b_1}{b_2}=\frac{c_1}{c_2}\), then the system is consistent and dependent.

Step 5: Check if the system is independent

If neither of the previous two conditions applies, then the system is consistent and independent, and it has one unique solution. This usually means that the ratios of the coefficients between the two equations are not equal.

That is, if \(\frac{a_1}{a_2}≠\frac{b_1}{b_2}\), or if no other conditions from step \(3\) or \(4\) are met, then the system is consistent and independent.

Note: This process applies to a system of two linear equations. For systems with more equations or for non-linear systems, other methods like substitution, elimination, or matrices might be used to determine the classification.