Properties of Inequalities
Lesson · Beginner
Algebra: Inequalities
Basic Properties of Inequalities
Powers of Inequalities
Solve 3x − 7 < 11.
Add 7:
Divide by the positive number 3:
Solve −4x + 3 ≤ 15.
Subtract 3:
Divide by −4, so the inequality reverses:
Suppose −4 < x < 3. Find the greatest possible range for x².
Because the interval crosses 0, we cannot simply square the endpoints.
The minimum occurs at x = 0, so x² ≥ 0.
The largest absolute values occur near −4, giving x² < 16.
Therefore,
If 1 < a < b, arrange the following from smallest to largest: a, b, 1/a, 1/b.
Since 1 < a < b, taking reciprocals reverses the order:
Also, 1/a < 1 < a.
Therefore,
Suppose 0 < a < b. Compare a/b and (a + 1)/(b + 1).
Since all denominators are positive, cross-multiply:
is equivalent to
which simplifies to a < b. This is true.
Therefore,
Incorrect:
Correct:
From −5 < 2, it is incorrect to conclude 25 < 4.
From a/x < b/y, you cannot automatically conclude ay < bx unless you know the sign of xy.
The rule
does not work when the interval crosses zero.
For example, −1 < 2 but −1 < 1/2, not the reverse.
The useful condition is ab > 0.
From a < b, c < d, you cannot generally conclude ac < bd. The signs matter.