The first step in developing a system of equations from a real-life situation is to B. define your variables. This step is crucial as it helps in setting up the framework for the equations that will represent the problem accurately.
Here's why defining your variables is the initial step:
1. Identify the unknowns: By defining your variables, you clarify what the unknown quantities are in the problem. These unknowns will later become the variables in your equations.
2. Assign symbols: Give each unknown quantity a symbol or variable. For instance, if you are dealing with the number of apples and oranges, you could use 'a' for apples and 'o' for oranges.
3. Establish relationships: Determine how the variables are related to each other based on the problem. For example, if you know that the total number of fruits is 10 and the number of apples is 2 less than the number of oranges, you can express this relationship mathematically as a + o = 10 and a = o - 2.
By defining your variables upfront, you lay the foundation for creating equations that accurately represent the real-life situation. This clarity makes it easier to move on to the next steps of writing equations, solving them, and ultimately determining the solution.
