Example 2
Sally is making a drink that is a mix of crystals and water in a ratio of 3:7. She
starts by mixing 15 cups of crystals with 9 cups of water. How many more cups of
water should she add to have a 3:7 ratio?

Arrange the steps to solve this system of linear equations in the correct sequence. x + y = -2 2x – 3y = -9 tiles subtract 3x + 3y = -6 (obtained in step 1) from 2x – 3y = -9 (given) to solve for x. substitute the value of x in the first equation (x + y = -2) to get y = 1. the solution for the system of equations is (-3, 1). x = -15 the solution for the system of equations is (-15, 13). add 3x + 3y = -6 (obtained in step 1) to 2x – 3y = -9 (given), and solve for x. x = -3 substitute the value of x in the first equation (x + y = -2) to get y = 13. multiply the first equation by 3: 3(x + y) = 3(-2) 3x + 3y = -6.