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Math Solvers/Algebra & Calculus/linear-equations-system

System of Linear Equations Solver (2×2 & 3×3)

Interactive simultaneous equation solver supporting both 2-variable and 3-variable linear systems with full determinant expansion and consistency checks.

Linear Equations (a₁x + b₁y = c₁)

Equation 1
Equation 2
Value of x
1.0000
Value of y
2.0000
Determinants:
D = -5.0000, Dx = -5.0000, Dy = -10.0000

Cramer's Rule Solution Steps

1. System Representation in Matrix Form

Linear system with coefficient matrix A and constant vector B.

2. Main Coefficient Determinant (D)

D ≠ 0 confirms a single unique solution exists.

3. Component Determinants (Dx and Dy)

Computed by replacing x and y coefficient columns with constants vector.

4. Cramer's Rule Solution

Unique intersection point (x, y) = (1.0000, 2.0000).

Mathematical Formulation

Standard analytical and numerical formulations derived from classical algebra, linear algebra, and calculus principles.

Engineering Reference & Technical Guide

Systems of Linear Equations & Cramer's Rule Reference Guide

Peer-reviewed mathematical formulation, verified step-by-step worked engineering calculations, design codes, and practical guidelines.

Governing Theory & Derivation

Analytical physics and classical mechanics foundations

Linear systems represent fundamental mathematical modeling in structural truss analysis (method of joints), electrical circuit loop/mesh equations (Kirchhoff's Laws), and fluid network pipe networks. A system of n equations in n unknowns is expressed in matrix notation as A·x = b.

1. Matrix Representation and Determinant

For a 2×2 or 3×3 square coefficient matrix A, the existence of a unique solution requires det(A) ≠ 0:

2. Cramer's Rule Formulation

Each unknown x_i is computed as the ratio of determinants, where A_i is obtained by replacing column i with the constant vector b:

Engineering Interpretation:If det(A) = 0, the system is singular. It either possesses infinitely many solutions (dependent redundant equations) or no solution (inconsistent contradictory constraints).

Step-by-Step Worked Example

Two-Loop DC Electrical Circuit Mesh Current Analysis

Problem Statement

Mesh analysis of a two-loop DC circuit produces the simultaneous linear equations: 12·I_1 - 4·I_2 = 24 and -4·I_1 + 10·I_2 = -8. Solve for mesh currents I_1 and I_2 using Cramer's rule.

Given Parameters

Equation 112·I_1 - 4·I_2 = 24 Volts
Equation 2-4·I_1 + 10·I_2 = -8 Volts

Detailed Calculation Steps

1Compute System Determinant (D)

Since D ≠ 0, a unique set of mesh currents exists.

2Compute D_1 and Solve for I_1

Replacing column 1 with the source voltage vector.

3Compute D_2 and Solve for I_2

Mesh current 2 is exactly zero.

Conclusion & Design Verification:Mesh current I_1 = 2.0 Amperes and I_2 = 0.0 Amperes. The shared 4-ohm resistor carries 2.0 A.

Applicable Standards & Design Codes

Recognized engineering guidelines and criteria

IEEE Std 519IEEE

Recommended Practice and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electric Power Systems

Employs linear systems for nodal admittance matrix solutions.

Assumptions & Practical Limitations

Critical constraints for professional applications

  • Cramer's rule is computationally inefficient for large systems (n > 4). Gaussian elimination or LU decomposition should be used for large matrices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common technical engineering inquiries

Q:When does Cramer's rule fail?

Cramer's rule fails when the determinant of the coefficient matrix is zero (det A = 0), indicating parallel planes or linearly dependent equations.