Solve Pre-Calc Interval Inequalities | Basic Tutorial

  • Thread starter andrea1
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation is about a student who is struggling with a pre-calculus assignment involving inequalities and interval notation. They are unsure about the use of rads, or square roots, and are seeking clarification on the symbols and concepts used. The conversation also mentions resources for further explanation and provides an example of how to represent square roots in interval notation.
  • #1
andrea1
2
0
i just started pre-calc, we were not taught anything and yet given an assignment. i am sure these are very basic and perhaps dumb problems to be stuck on, but i don't get what to do.

"express the interval using inequalities, and give a sketch of the numbers in the interval."

1) [-3,-1]

2) [*rad*5, -*rad*2]

there is more, but if someone can just explain what i do that'd be great!
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
yes i do, didn't know how to make that
 
  • #4
andrea1 said:
yes i do, didn't know how to make that

To see the code used to make that, just click on it.
 
  • #5
Did your teacher explain to you what the brackets mean vs. parenthesis, and talk about the difference between open and closed intervals?
Your teacher might be assuming you covered these topics in algebra 2 and this is just review.
 
  • #6
[-3, -1] is -3<= x<= -1.

Did your text actually have "*rad*" or did you choose that as a way of writing
[tex]\[sqrt{5},-\sqrt{2}][/tex]? Well, even if you did, it would make no sense: [tex]\sqrt{5}[/tex] is NOT less than [tex]-\sqrt{2}[/tex]. If the original problem was [[tex]-\sqrt{5},-\sqrt{2}] then that is [tex]-\sqrt{5}<= x<= -\sqrt{2}[/tex].
 

FAQ: Solve Pre-Calc Interval Inequalities | Basic Tutorial

What is a pre-calc interval inequality?

A pre-calc interval inequality is a type of mathematical statement that involves a variable, along with an inequality symbol (such as <, >, ≤, or ≥), and one or more numbers. The solution to an interval inequality is a range of values that satisfy the inequality.

How do I solve pre-calc interval inequalities?

To solve a pre-calc interval inequality, you first need to isolate the variable on one side of the inequality symbol. Then, you can use algebraic techniques such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing both sides by the same number to simplify the inequality. Finally, you can graph the solution on a number line to find the range of values that satisfy the inequality.

What are the common mistakes made when solving pre-calc interval inequalities?

One common mistake is forgetting to reverse the direction of the inequality symbol when multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative number. Another mistake is not solving for the variable correctly, which can lead to an incorrect solution. It is also important to pay attention to the direction of the inequality symbol when graphing the solution on a number line.

Why is it important to learn how to solve pre-calc interval inequalities?

Learning how to solve pre-calc interval inequalities is important because it is a fundamental skill in many mathematical and scientific fields. It is also essential for understanding more advanced concepts in pre-calculus and calculus. Being able to solve interval inequalities allows you to analyze and interpret real-world data and make informed decisions based on mathematical reasoning.

Are there any tips or tricks for solving pre-calc interval inequalities?

One helpful tip is to always double-check your work and make sure you have correctly solved for the variable and graphed the solution on a number line. It is also useful to remember the properties of inequalities, such as adding or subtracting the same number to both sides does not change the inequality, but multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative number does. It can also be helpful to check your solution by plugging in a value within the solution range to ensure it satisfies the original inequality.

Back
Top