Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities in One
Variable
At the end of this lecture, a student must be able to:
Solve precisely for the solution set of an inequality.

Give the correspondence between inequalities and intervals

on the real number line
Solve inequalities involving polynomials and rational
expressions using a Table of Signs

Solve inequalities involving absolute values

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities

An inequality is a statement saying that one

expression is less than or equal to another.

3x − 2 < 3x + 1 x+3≥x+7

2x |2x − 1| > 1
1−x≤
x+1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

A solution to an inequality is a value of the

variable that makes the inequality true.
The solution set of an inequality is the set
of all solutions of the inequality.

Example: The solution set of x2 > x is (−∞, 0) ∪ (1, +∞).

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities

An absolute inequality is an inequality that

is true for all permissible values.
Example: x2 + 1 ≥ 2x x < |x| + 1

A conditional inequality is an inequality

that is true only for some real values.
2x
Example: x > 2 1−x≤
x+1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

All real numbers can be put in sequence on a number line.

−5 −4 −3 −2 −1 0 1 2 3 4 5
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a ∈ R.

a
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a ∈ R.

(a, +∞) = {x ∈ R|x > a}

a
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a ∈ R.

[a, +∞) = {x ∈ R|x ≥ a}

a
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a ∈ R.

(−∞, a) = {x ∈ R|x < a}

a
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a ∈ R.

(−∞, a] = {x ∈ R|x ≤ a}

a
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a, b ∈ R such that a < b.

a b
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a, b ∈ R such that a < b.

(a, b) = {x ∈ R|a < x < b}

a b
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a, b ∈ R such that a < b.

[a, b) = {x ∈ R|a ≤ x < b}

a b
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a, b ∈ R such that a < b.

(a, b] = {x ∈ R|a < x ≤ b}

a b
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Interval Notation

Let a, b ∈ R such that a < b.

[a, b] = {x ∈ R|a ≤ x ≤ b}

a b
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Order Axioms

Let a, b ∈ R such that a < b. Then

• a + c < b + c for all c ∈ R

• if c > 0, then ac < bc
• if c < 0, then ac > bc
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Linear Inequalities
Inequalities that can be written in the form
ax + b > 0.
(here, > may be replaced by <, ≥, ≤)

To solve these inequalities, isolate x on one side using the

order axioms.
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Linear Inequalities
Inequalities that can be written in the form
ax + b > 0.
(here, > may be replaced by <, ≥, ≤)

To solve these inequalities, isolate x on one side using the

order axioms.

Example: Find the solution set of 3x + 1 > x + 7.

Solution:
3x + 1 > x + 7 given
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Linear Inequalities
Inequalities that can be written in the form
ax + b > 0.
(here, > may be replaced by <, ≥, ≤)

To solve these inequalities, isolate x on one side using the

order axioms.

Example: Find the solution set of 3x + 1 > x + 7.

Solution:
3x + 1 > x + 7 given
3x − x > 7 − 1 additive property
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Linear Inequalities
Inequalities that can be written in the form
ax + b > 0.
(here, > may be replaced by <, ≥, ≤)

To solve these inequalities, isolate x on one side using the

order axioms.

Example: Find the solution set of 3x + 1 > x + 7.

Solution:
3x + 1 > x + 7 given
3x − x > 7 − 1 additive property
2x > 6
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Linear Inequalities
Inequalities that can be written in the form
ax + b > 0.
(here, > may be replaced by <, ≥, ≤)

To solve these inequalities, isolate x on one side using the

order axioms.

Example: Find the solution set of 3x + 1 > x + 7.

Solution:
3x + 1 > x + 7 given
3x − x > 7 − 1 additive property
2x > 6
x > 3
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Linear Inequalities
Inequalities that can be written in the form
ax + b > 0.
(here, > may be replaced by <, ≥, ≤)

To solve these inequalities, isolate x on one side using the

order axioms.

Example: Find the solution set of 3x + 1 > x + 7.

Solution:
3x + 1 > x + 7 given
3x − x > 7 − 1 additive property
2x > 6
x > 3
Hence, the solution set is (3, +∞).
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2−5 < 5 − 3x − 5 < 11 − 5
−3 <
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2−5 < 5 − 3x − 5 < 11 − 5
−3 < − 3x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2−5 < 5 − 3x − 5 < 11 − 5
−3 < − 3x < 6
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
−3 < − 3x < 6
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
1 1 1
( −3 )( − 3) < − 3x( −3 ) < 6( −3 )
1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
1 1 1
( −3 )( − 3) < − 3x( −3 ) < 6( −3 )
1 x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
1 1 1
( −3 )( − 3) < − 3x( −3 ) < 6( −3 )
1 > x > −2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
−3 < − 3x < 6
1 > x > −2
m
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
−3 < − 3x < 6
1 > x > −2
m
−2 < x < 1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x ∈ (a, b) ⇔ a < x < b

Example: Find the solution set of 2 < 5 − 3x < 11.

Solution:
2 < 5 − 3x < 11
−3 < − 3x < 6
1 > x > −2
m
−2 < x < 1

Hence solution set is (−2, 1).

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Polynomial and Rational Inequalities

To solve:
1. Write the inequality in the form A > 0, A < 0, A ≥ 0
or A ≤ 0. (standard form)
2. Find all real values of x for which the numerator or the
denominator is zero. (critical points)
3. Make a table describing the sign of each factor in the
numerator and the denominator on each subinterval
into which the critical points subdivide R. (table of
signs)
4. Use the table of signs to find which subintervals satisfy
the inequality in standard form and take note whether
the endpoints are solutions.
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1
x−3
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 −
x−3
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − +
x−3
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 −
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − −
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − − +
(x − 1)(x − 3)
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − − +
(x − 1)(x − 3) +
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − − +
(x − 1)(x − 3) + −
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − − +
(x − 1)(x − 3) + − +
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − − +
(x − 1)(x − 3) + − +
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of x2 − 2x < 2x − 3.

Solution:

x2 − 4x + 3 < 0 Standard Form

(x − 1)(x − 3) < 0 Factor
critical numbers : 1, 3

Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
x−1 − + +
x−3 − − +
(x − 1)(x − 3) + − +

Hence, the solution set is (1, 3).

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1
x
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 −
x
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − +
x
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + +
x
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x −
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − −
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − +
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 −
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − −
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − −
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
−
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
− +
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
− + −
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
− + − +
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
− + − +
x
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

x+2
Example: Find all real values of x satisfying ≤x
x
x+2
0 ≤ x− Standard Form
x
x2 − x − 2
0 ≤ Simplify
x
(x + 1)(x − 2)
0 ≤ Factor
x
critical numbers : −1, 0, 2
Table of Signs: (−∞, −1) (−1, 0) (0, 2) (2, ∞)
x+1 − + + +
x − − + +
x−2 − − − +
x2 − x − 2
− + − +
x
Hence, the solution set is [−1, 0) ∪ [2, ∞).
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Strategies in Solving Inequalities

• Always put inequalities involving polynomials

or rational expressions in the standard form

E < 0 or E > 0.
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Strategies in Solving Inequalities

• Always put inequalities involving polynomials

or rational expressions in the standard form

E < 0 or E > 0.

• NEVER multiply both sides of an inequality

by an expression that has varying signs for
different values of x.
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and k ∈ R.

If k < 0 (k is a negative number), then

• |E| > k is always true

• |E| < k is never true

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| < k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| < k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| < k ⇔ −k < E < k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| < k ⇔ −k < E < k ⇔ E > −k and E < k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| ≤ k ⇔ −k ≤ E ≤ k ⇔ E ≥ −k and E ≤ k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
[−2, +∞) ∩ (−∞, 4]
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
[−2, +∞) ∩ (−∞, 4]

Hence, the solution set is [−2, 4].

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
[−2, +∞) ∩ (−∞, 4]

Hence, the solution set is [−2, 4].

Another solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 ≤ 3
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
[−2, +∞) ∩ (−∞, 4]

Hence, the solution set is [−2, 4].

Another solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 ≤ 3
1−3 ≤ x ≤ 3+1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
[−2, +∞) ∩ (−∞, 4]

Hence, the solution set is [−2, 4].

Another solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 ≤ 3
1−3 ≤ x ≤ 3+1
−2 ≤ x ≤ 4
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Find the solution set of |x − 1| ≤ 3

Solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 and x−1 ≤ 3
−2 ≤ x and x ≤ 4
[−2, +∞) ∩ (−∞, 4]

Hence, the solution set is [−2, 4].

Another solution:
−3 ≤ x − 1 ≤ 3
1−3 ≤ x ≤ 3+1
−2 ≤ x ≤ 4
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution:
x x
−1 ≤ and ≤ 1
x−2 x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution:
x x
−1 ≤ and ≤ 1
x−2 x−2
x x−2 x−2 x
0 ≤ + − + ≤ 0
x−2 x−2 x−2 x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution:
x x
−1 ≤ and ≤ 1
x−2 x−2
x x−2 x−2 x
0 ≤ + − + ≤ 0
x−2 x−2 x−2 x−2
2x − 2 2
0 ≤ and ≤ 0
x−2 x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1)
x−2
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) −
x−2
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − +
x−2
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 −
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 − −
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 − − +
2(x − 1)
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 − − +
2(x − 1)
+
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 − − +
2(x − 1)
+ −
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 − − +
2(x − 1)
+ − +
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy 
 ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2x − 2
For ≥0 :
x−2
Table of Signs:

(−∞, 1) (1, 2) (2, ∞)

2(x − 1) − + +
x−2 − − +
2(x − 1)
+ − +
x−2

Solution set is SSA = (−∞, 1] ∪ (2, ∞)

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy  ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2
For ≤ 0,
x−2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy  ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2
For ≤ 0, note that the numerator is always positive.
x−2
So solution set is
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy  ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2
For ≤ 0, note that the numerator is always positive.
x−2
So solution set is SSB = (−∞, 2).
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy  ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2
For ≤ 0, note that the numerator is always positive.
x−2
So solution set is SSB = (−∞, 2).

Getting the intersection,

SSA ∩ SSB = ((−∞, 1] ∪ (2, ∞)) ∩ (−∞, 2)

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
 x 
Example : Find all real values of x that satisfy  ≤1
x − 2
Solution (cont):
2
For ≤ 0, note that the numerator is always positive.
x−2
So solution set is SSB = (−∞, 2).

Getting the intersection,

SSA ∩ SSB = ((−∞, 1] ∪ (2, ∞)) ∩ (−∞, 2)

Thus, the solution set is (−∞, 1].

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| > k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| > k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| > k ⇔ E < −k or E > k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Inequalities with Absolute Value

Let E be any real expression and let k > 0. Then

|E| ≥ k ⇔ E ≤ −k or E ≥ k

-k 0 k
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
2x − 1 ≤ −4 2x − 1 ≥ 4
or
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
2x − 1 ≤ −4 2x − 1 ≥ 4
2x ≤ −4 + 1 or
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
2x − 1 ≤ −4 2x − 1 ≥ 4
2x ≤ −4 + 1 or
x ≤ −3/2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
2x − 1 ≤ −4 2x − 1 ≥ 4
2x ≤ −4 + 1 or 2x ≥ 4 + 1
x ≤ −3/2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
2x − 1 ≤ −4 2x − 1 ≥ 4
2x ≤ −4 + 1 or 2x ≥ 4 + 1
x ≤ −3/2 x ≥ 5/2
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Example: Find the solution set of |2x − 1| ≥ 4

Solution:
2x − 1 ≤ −4 2x − 1 ≥ 4
2x ≤ −4 + 1 or 2x ≥ 4 + 1
x ≤ −3/2 x ≥ 5/2

Hence, the solution set is (−∞, −3/2 ] ∪ [5/2 , ∞).

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution:
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution:
x+1 x+1
≤ −2 or ≥ 2
x−1 x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution:
x+1 x+1
≤ −2 or ≥ 2
x−1 x−1
 
x−1 x+1
2 + ≤ 0
x−1 x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution:
x+1 x+1
≤ −2 or ≥ 2
x−1 x−1
 
x−1 x+1
2 + ≤ 0
x−1 x−1

3x − 1
≤ 0
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution:
x+1 x+1
≤ −2 or ≥ 2
x−1 x−1
   
x−1 x+1 x−1 x+1
2 + ≤ 0 −2 + ≥ 0
x−1 x−1 x−1 x−1

3x − 1
≤ 0
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution:
x+1 x+1
≤ −2 or ≥ 2
x−1 x−1
   
x−1 x+1 x−1 x+1
2 + ≤ 0 −2 + ≥ 0
x−1 x−1 x−1 x−1

3x − 1 −x + 3
≤ 0 or ≥ 0
x−1 x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 −
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − +
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 −
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 − −
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 − − +
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 − − +
3x − 1
+
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 − − +
3x − 1
+ −
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 − − +
3x − 1
+ − +
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
3x − 1
For ≤0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞,1/3 ) (1/3 , 1) (1, ∞)
3x − 1 − + +
x−1 − − +
3x − 1
+ − +
x−1

Solution set is SS1 = [1/3 , 1).

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 +
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + +
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 −
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 − +
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 − + +
3x − 1
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 − + +
3x − 1
−
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 − + +
3x − 1
− +
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 − + +
3x − 1
− + −
x−1
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
−x + 3
For ≥ 0 :
x−1
Table of Signs:
(−∞, 1) (1, 3) (3, ∞)
−x + 3 + + −
x−1 − + +
3x − 1
− + −
x−1

Solution set is SS2 = (1, 3] .

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
 
x + 1
Hence, 
  ≥ 2 if and only if x ∈ SS1 = [1/3 , 1) or
x − 1
x ∈ SS2 = (1, 3].
Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
 
x + 1
Hence, 
  ≥ 2 if and only if x ∈ SS1 = [1/3 , 1) or
x − 1
x ∈ SS2 = (1, 3].

Getting the union,

the solution set is [1/3 , 1) ∪ (1, 3]

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

 
x + 1
Example: Find all real values of x that satisfy   ≥ 2.
x − 1
Solution(cont):
 
x + 1
Hence, 
  ≥ 2 if and only if x ∈ SS1 = [1/3 , 1) or
x − 1
x ∈ SS2 = (1, 3].

Getting the union,

the solution set is [1/3 , 1) ∪ (1, 3]

can also be written as [1/3 , 3] \ {1}

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Recap:
Solve precisely for the solution set of an inequality.

Give the correspondence between inequalities and intervals

on the real number line

Solve inequalities involving polynomials and rational

expressions using a Table of Signs

Solve inequalities involving absolute values

Solution Set of Inequality Interval Notations Table of Signs Absolute Values

Exercises

Find the solution set of the following inequalities:

2x + 1 2x 1 5. 0 < |x − 5| < 2
1. ≤ +
4 3 6
2. −2 < 5 + 3x < 20 6. 3|8 − x| + 2 < 7 − 2|x − 8|

x 2 2x − 7
3. ≥ 7. ≤1
x+1 x+3 x2 − 6x + 8

8. x(2x2 − 5x − 12) ≥
 
 9 − 2x 
4.  ≥1
4x  2x2 − 5x − 12