Choice C is the correct answer. To eliminate a variable, we need matching coefficients. Let's eliminate $y$ by multiplying the second equation by 2.

Step 1: Multiply the second equation by 2: $2(x + y) = 2(6)$$2x + 2y = 12$

Step 2: Subtract from the first equation: $(3x + 2y) - (2x + 2y) = 16 - 12$$x = 4$

Step 3: Substitute $x = 4$ into the second equation: $4 + y = 6$$y = 2$

Solution: $(4, 2)$

Verification: $3(4) + 2(2) = 12 + 4 = 16$ ✓

💡 Strategic Tip: Multiply equations to create matching or opposite coefficients for elimination.

Choice A is incorrect because$3(3) + 2(3) = 9 + 6 = 15 \ eq 16$.

Choice B is incorrect because$3(5) + 2(1) = 15 + 2 = 17 \ eq 16$.

Choice D is incorrect because$3(2) + 2(4) = 6 + 8 = 14 \ eq 16$.