Introduction to Systems of Linear
Equations
Types and Solutions – Linear Algebra
& Vector Analysis
What is a System of Linear
Equations?
• A collection of two or more linear equations
– Same set of variables (x, y, z, ...)
– Represents lines/planes in vector space
General Form
• a₁x + b₁y + c₁z = d₁
– a₂x + b₂y + c₂z = d₂
– Can be written in matrix form AX = B
Types of Systems
• Consistent System – At least one solution
– Inconsistent System – No solution
– Dependent System – Infinite solutions
Solution Types
• Unique Solution – Lines/planes intersect at
one point
– No Solution – Parallel lines/planes
– Infinite Solutions – Same line/plane (overlapping)
Matrix Representation
• Coefficient Matrix (A)
– Variable Matrix (X)
– Constant Matrix (B)
– AX = B → Solve using elimination or inverse
Example
• x+y=5
– 2x – y = 1
– Solution: x = 2, y = 3
– Represents intersection point of two lines
Applications
• Engineering (circuit analysis)
– Computer Graphics
– Economics (supply-demand models)
– Physics (motion & force equations)