solve

I think these are the equations:

b₁ + b₂ = -5

5b₁ + 2b₂ = -12

 

Solve the first equation for b₁ by subtracting b₂ from both sides.

b₁ = -5 - b₂

 

Substitute this value for b₁ into the second equation.

5(-5 - b₂) + 2b₂ = -12

 

Distribute and combine like terms.

-25 - 5b₂ + 2b₂ = -12

-25 - 3b₂ = -12

 

Add 25 to both sides of the equation.

-3b₂ = -12 + 25

-3b₂ = 13

 

Divide both sides by 7.

b₂ = -13/3

 

Substitute this value for b₂ into either of the given equations to find b₁.

b₁ + -13/3 = -5

b₁ = -5 + 13/3

b₁ = -2/3