Inequality with modulus question

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the maximum value of 'n' such that the modulus of pi - 22/7 is less than 10-n. The conversation involves calculating the value of pi - 22/7 and understanding the meaning of modulus. The final conclusion is that the maximum value of n is 2.
  • #1
vodkasoup
31
0

Homework Statement



What is the maximum value of 'n' such that the modulus of pi-22/7 < 10-n?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I have worked out that pi > -10-n + 22/7 , and pi < 10n +22/7. I also know that 10-n is equivalent to 1/10n. I do not know where to go after this however.
 
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  • #2
hi vodkasoup! :smile:
vodkasoup said:
What is the maximum value of 'n' such that the modulus of pi-22/7 < 10-n?

π = 3.14159265…

22/7 = 3.14285714…​

what is π - 22/7 ?

what is it less than? :wink:
 
  • #3
Hi tiny-tim, thanks for the reply :)

Haha, I didn't even notice the 22/7 relating to pi!

So π - 22/7 is, according to my calculator, -0.001 ... which is less than 0.

I still can't quite see how to relate this to 10-n. I'm a bit slow today, haha.

It seems that no matter how much I increase the value of n, -0.001 will always be lower.

Am I on the right track with the 1/10n thing?
 
  • #4
hi vodkasoup! :smile:
vodkasoup said:
So π - 22/7 is, according to my calculator, -0.001 ... which is less than 0.

that's ok, the question asks you about the modulus, doesn't it? :wink:
I still can't quite see how to relate this to 10-n.

what's 10-1? what's 10-2? what's 10-3? …
 
  • #5
Hmm. I think I may be a bit unclear on the meaning of 'modulus'. Is it the 'distance' to 0 of a given point?

If that is so, would the maximum value of n be 2, because 1 / 10 to the third power is 0.001, which does not satisfy the inequality?
 
  • #6
vodkasoup said:
Hmm. I think I may be a bit unclear on the meaning of 'modulus'. Is it the 'distance' to 0 of a given point?

yes, modulus is the magnitude

so, for a number x, the modulus, |x|, is always positive (or zero)
If that is so, would the maximum value of n be 2, because 1 / 10 to the third power is 0.001, which does not satisfy the inequality?

yes :smile:
 
  • #7
Thanks so much for your help tiny-tim! Sorry I took so long to reply here; I've been so busy over the last couple of days. Very much appreciate your help.
 

FAQ: Inequality with modulus question

What is an inequality with modulus question?

An inequality with modulus question is a type of mathematical problem that involves the absolute value or modulus function. This function is represented by two vertical lines surrounding a number or expression, and it returns the distance of that number or expression from zero on a number line. Inequality with modulus questions often involve finding the range of values that satisfy the given inequality.

Why are inequalities with modulus important?

Inequalities with modulus are important because they allow us to express a range of values rather than just a single value. This is useful in many real-world situations where there may be a range of possible outcomes or solutions. Modulus also helps us to deal with negative numbers in a simplified way, making it easier to solve complex problems.

How do I solve an inequality with modulus?

To solve an inequality with modulus, you first need to isolate the modulus expression on one side of the inequality. Then, create two separate equations: one with the positive value of the modulus expression and one with the negative value. Solve each equation separately and combine the solutions to find the range of values that satisfy the original inequality.

Are there any special rules for solving inequalities with modulus?

Yes, there are a few special rules to keep in mind when solving inequalities with modulus. When the inequality involves an absolute value and is set equal to a negative number, there is no solution. Additionally, when multiplying or dividing both sides of the inequality by a negative number, the direction of the inequality symbol must be reversed.

Can inequalities with modulus be solved graphically?

Yes, inequalities with modulus can be solved graphically by plotting the modulus expression as a V-shaped graph and finding the points where it intersects the line representing the inequality. The range of values that satisfy the inequality can then be determined by looking at the shaded region on the graph.

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