New Ranked System

Two questions. Would love if anyone would answer or provide some insight.

Question 1: Does anyone know if let’s say I am a silver 3 mid laner, a plat 4 top laner in solo/duo. Can I queue playing mid with someone else who is ranked silver, but may not be gold in any solo/duo rank?

If that makes any sense.

Question 2: Earlier today I tried to flex with one of my friends who finished silver in flex last season and I finished gold, but it said the ranked difference between us was too great.

I mean our solo/duo rank difference is too great, but shouldn’t only our flex rank matter? Isn’t that the point of having another queue?

Sorry if these questions sounds silly and dumb. Hope everyone’s climb is off too a great start!! Good luck on the season!!