Example 5: Solve the rational inequality >
I need to make the right side of the rational inequality zero. To do that, | will simultaneously add x and subtract 5 on
both sides. However, my ultimate goal is to express f in a aingle rational expression. This (6 where your skills on how
to add and subract fational expressions will be useful. You should have similar etepe below.
3x15
s-x
3x
3x
S215, Severs
3x—15
a x-5<0
3x15
3x15
x? 2-15
(2-949) <9
Next, find the zeros of the numerator and denominator.
Zeros of numerator Zeros of denominator
-aands °
Make use of the zeros to divide the number line into distinct intervals. Choose
‘results to true statements, The selected test values for x are in yellow.
t numbers for each interval to check
‘i r ' 6
( ' 1 @)
<0 Tuc | True | 2
<< HHH
@->2@°@2;::5:@
The “true” intervals are(—co, —3) and (0 , 5). More so, the zeros of the numerator also check with the general
form of the given rational inequality. Consequently, | have to include ~ 2 and § as part of the solution with the use of
square brackets.
3] U (0, 5] wv
The final answer now becomes