2a+2x=18 and a+3x = 17 Solve for each system

In a system of linear equations we should first try to eliminate one variable. Like this:

2a+2x=18........................(1)

a+3x=17........................(2)

Multiply equation (2) with 2:

2a+6x=34....................(3)

Subtract 1) and (3):

-4x=-16

x=4

Substitute in 1) or 2) to get 'a' value:

a=5

Therefore the solution is x=4 and a=5...................(Answer)