FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

In the context of solving equations, what does substitution refer to?

1. Combining two equations

2. Finding the one variable solution only

3. Replacing one variable with another's value

4. Manipulating the equation's structure

The correct answer is: Replacing one variable with another's value

Substitution in the context of solving equations refers to the process of replacing one variable with the value of another variable. This technique is particularly useful in systems of equations, where one equation can be solved for one variable, and the solution can then be substituted into another equation to find the value of the remaining variable. This method simplifies the problem and allows for easier computation by reducing the number of variables involved. For example, if you have two equations and can express one variable in terms of another, substituting that expression into the second equation helps isolate the variables more effectively. This step is fundamental in algebraic problem-solving, allowing the student to break down complex systems and systematically arrive at the solution.