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:



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