Solving One-Step InequalitiesOneInequalitiesMultiplication and Division

By: Ms. Canfield 8th Grade Math

Lets Review!
How is an inequality different than an equation? y If you see an open circle, what are the only two symbols that can be used in your inequality? y What does a closed circle represent? y What are some inverse operations?
y

Symbols
Less than

" e u

Greater than Less than OR EQUAL TO

Greater than OR EQUAL TO

What is the Inequality?

-5 -4 -3 -2 -1

x u 3

Solving an Inequality
Solving a linear inequality in one variable is much like solving a linear equation in one variable. Isolate the variable on one side using inverse operations.

Solve using addition:

x3<5 Add the same number to EACH side.

x 3 5
+3 +3

x<8

THE TRAP..
When you multiply or divide each side of an inequality by a negative number, you must reverse the inequality symbol to maintain a true statement.

Solving using Multiplication

Multiply each side by the same positive number.

(2)

x " 3 (2) 2

x"6

Solving Using Division

Divide each side by the same positive number.

3x e 9
3 3

xe3

Solving by multiplication of a negative #

Multiply each side by the same negative number and REVERSE the inequality symbol.

(-1)

x

(-1)

Multiply by (-1).

See the switch

x " 4

Solving by dividing by a negative #

Divide each side by the same negative number and reverse the inequality symbol.

 2x e 6
-2 -2

xu3

Lets Practice!
1.6x > 4 2.x/3 < 5 3.-2x > 10 4.x/-4 < 2 5.8x < -2