What Values of x Satisfy the Inequality \(\frac{x-1}{x+1} > 0\)?

In summary, Spivak 4 (xiv) is a chapter in the fourth edition of Michael Spivak's textbook, Calculus, that discusses the concept of inequality. In this chapter, Spivak defines inequality as a statement that compares two quantities using symbols such as <, >, ≤, or ≥. Examples of inequalities in calculus include 3 < 5, 2x + 1 > x + 5, and 4x ≤ 8. Understanding inequalities is important in calculus because they allow us to compare and analyze relationships between quantities, and are used in various applications such as finding maximum and minimum values, determining convergence or divergence, and solving optimization problems. Inequalities in calculus can be solved using algebra
  • #1
Saladsamurai
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Homework Statement



Find all x for which [itex]\frac{x-1}{x+1}>0 \qquad(1)[/itex]

Homework Equations



(2) AB > 0 if A,B >0 OR A,B < 0

(3) 1/Z > 0 => Z > 0

The Attempt at a Solution



Since (1) holds if:

[itex] (x-1) > 0 \text{ and } (x+1) > 0 \qquad x\ne -1[/itex]

then we must have x>1 AND x>-1

and since (1) also will hold if:

[itex] (x-1) < 0 \text{ and } (x+1) < 0 \qquad x\ne -1[/itex]

then we must have x<1 AND x<-1

So that the solution is x on the interval [itex](-\infty,-1) \cup (1,\infty)[/itex].

What is the proper way to write the solution using set builder notation?
 
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  • #2
You could write, for example:

[tex]\left\{x : \frac{x-1}{x+1} > 0\right\} = (-\infty, -1) \cup (1, \infty)[/tex]

Or:

[tex]\frac{x-1}{x+1} > 0 \iff x \in (-\infty, -1) \cup (1, \infty)[/tex]
 

FAQ: What Values of x Satisfy the Inequality \(\frac{x-1}{x+1} > 0\)?

What is the concept of inequality in Spivak 4 (xiv)?

Spivak 4 (xiv) refers to the chapter on "Inequality" in the fourth edition of Michael Spivak's textbook, Calculus. In this chapter, Spivak discusses the concept of inequality, which refers to the state of being unequal or not equal in terms of quantity, size, or value.

How does Spivak define inequality in calculus?

In Spivak's definition, inequality in calculus is expressed as an expression or statement that compares two quantities, usually numbers, using symbols such as <, >, ≤, or ≥. These symbols indicate which quantity is larger or smaller, or if they are equal.

What are some examples of inequalities in calculus?

Some examples of inequalities in calculus include: 3 < 5 (three is less than five), 2x + 1 > x + 5 (two times x plus one is greater than x plus five), and 4x ≤ 8 (four times x is less than or equal to eight).

Why is understanding inequalities important in calculus?

Inequalities are important in calculus because they allow us to compare and analyze the relationships between quantities. In calculus, inequalities are used in a variety of applications, such as finding the maximum or minimum values of a function, determining the convergence or divergence of a series, and solving optimization problems.

How can I solve inequalities in calculus?

To solve inequalities in calculus, you can use algebraic techniques such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing both sides of the inequality by the same number. You can also graph the inequality on a number line to visually see the solution. Additionally, you can use calculus techniques such as taking derivatives or using the intermediate value theorem to solve certain types of inequalities.

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