7
algebra

For what value of cc does the system have infinitely many solutions? {6x+8y=243x+4y=c\begin{cases} 6x + 8y = 24 \\ 3x + 4y = c \end{cases}

A

c=6c = 6

B

c=8c = 8

C

c=12c = 12

D

c=24c = 24

Correct Answer: C

Choice C is the correct answer. For infinitely many solutions, one equation must be a multiple of the other.

Step 1: Notice that the first equation's coefficients are double the second's: 6x+8y=2(3x+4y)6x + 8y = 2(3x + 4y)

Step 2: Divide the first equation by 2: 6x+8y2=242\frac{6x + 8y}{2} = \frac{24}{2}3x+4y=123x + 4y = 12

Verification: With c=12c = 12, the first equation is exactly double the second: 2(3x+4y)=2(12)=242(3x + 4y) = 2(12) = 24

💡 Strategic Tip: Scaling coefficients by a factor requires scaling the constant by the same factor.

Choice A is incorrect because c=6c = 6 would give parallel lines (no solution).

Choice B is incorrect because c=8c = 8 would give parallel lines.

Choice D is incorrect because c=24c = 24 would give parallel lines.