Solve the equation
2x + 1 = x – 3, and represent the solution(s) on
(i) the number line,
(ii) the Cartesian plane.
Solving the given equation 2x + 1 = x – 3,
We have 2x – x = – 3 – 1
Or, x = – 4
(i) The representation of the solution on the number line is as shown:
x = – 4 is treated as an equation in one variable.
(ii) Equation x = – 4 is same as
x + 0.y = – 4
which is a linear equation in the variables x and y.
This is represented by a line. Now all the values of y are
permissible because 0.y is always 0. However, x must satisfy the
equation x = – 4.
The permissible values of x and y can be tabulated as:
Plotting the above values: