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Inequalities

Overview

Greater than, less than.

What is it?

Solving equations where the answer is a range, not a point.

History

Essential for calculating risk and safety limits.

Key Idea

If you multiply/divide by a negative, FLIP the inequality sign!

Practice This Topic

Concept Guide

Plain English: Sometimes you don't need an exact number, you just need 'at least' or 'no more than'. An elevator limit isn't exactly 2000lbs, it's 'anything less than 2000lbs'.

Real-world example: Speed limits. Budgeting (spending LESS than you make).

How to do it

  1. Solve exactly like an equation.
  2. Keep the alligator mouth facing the same way...
  3. UNLESS you multiply/divide by a negative.
  4. Then flip the mouth.

Common Pitfall

Forgetting to flip the sign when dividing by a negative. -2x > 10 becomes x < -5.

Word Problem
"You have $20. Burgers cost $4. How many can you buy?"
Reasoning: 4x ≤ 20. x ≤ 5. You can buy 5 or fewer.

Practice Examples

The Flip
-2x > 10 x < -5
Divided by -2, so sign flipped.