Class 10 · Chapter 3

Pair of Linear Equations in Two Variables

Graphical and algebraic methods (substitution, elimination, cross-multiplication) to solve two linear equations in two variables.

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Tip: open the NCERT PDF for the original chapter text alongside the notes here.
Detailed theory
Each equation a1x+b1y+c1=0a_1x + b_1y + c_1 = 0 represents a straight line. Two lines can (i) intersect at one point — unique solution (consistent, independent), (ii) be coincident — infinitely many solutions (consistent, dependent), (iii) be parallel — no solution (inconsistent). The relation between coefficients tells you which case.
Key concepts & formulas
01
System is consistent if it has a solution; inconsistent otherwise.
02
Unique solution: a1a2b1b2\dfrac{a_1}{a_2}\ne\dfrac{b_1}{b_2}.
03
Infinitely many: a1a2=b1b2=c1c2\dfrac{a_1}{a_2}=\dfrac{b_1}{b_2}=\dfrac{c_1}{c_2}.
04
No solution: a1a2=b1b2c1c2\dfrac{a_1}{a_2}=\dfrac{b_1}{b_2}\ne\dfrac{c_1}{c_2}.
05
Two variables need two independent equations to fix a unique point.
06
Graph of each equation is a straight line.
Gyaan Maths — CBSE Class 6-10, built for board-toppers.
v1.1 · Feb 2026