Reversing the direction of the inequality sign

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 66 views

Introduction

Inequalities are mathematical expressions that compare two values using greater than, less than, greater than or equal to, or less than or equal to symbols. Solving and graphing inequalities are essential skills in mathematics, particularly in algebra and calculus. In this article, we will focus on solving and graphing the inequality $-5m \leq -25$ .

Step 1: Solve the Inequality

To solve the inequality $-5m \leq -25$ , we need to isolate the variable $m$ . We can start by dividing both sides of the inequality by $-5$ . However, when we divide or multiply an inequality by a negative number, we need to reverse the direction of the inequality sign.

-5m \leq -25
\Rightarrow \frac{-5m}{-5} \geq \frac{-25}{-5}
\Rightarrow m \geq 5

Step 2: Graph the Solution

To graph the solution, we need to plot the number line and mark the point that corresponds to the value of $m$ . Since the inequality is $m \geq 5$ , we will mark the point $5$ on the number line and shade the region to the right of the point.

m \geq 5

The graph of the solution is a closed circle at $5$ and a shaded region to the right of the point.

Step 3: Enter the Solution in Interval Notation

To enter the solution in interval notation, we need to use the following notation:

$[a, b]$

where $a$ is the lower bound and $b$ is the upper bound.

In this case, the solution is $m \geq 5$ , so the interval notation is:

$[5, \infty)$

Conclusion

Solving and graphing inequalities are essential skills in mathematics. By following the steps outlined in this article, we can solve and graph the inequality $-5m \leq -25$ . The solution is $m \geq 5$ , and the graph is a closed circle at $5$ and a shaded region to the right of the point. The solution can be entered in interval notation as $[5, \infty)$ .

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving and graphing inequalities, there are several common mistakes to avoid:

Reversing the direction of the inequality sign: When dividing or multiplying an inequality by a negative number, we need to reverse the direction of the inequality sign.
Not isolating the variable: We need to isolate the variable on one side of the inequality.
Not considering the direction of the inequality: We need to consider the direction of the inequality when graphing the solution.

Real-World Applications

Solving and graphing inequalities have several real-world applications, including:

Optimization problems: Inequalities are used to model optimization problems, such as finding the maximum or minimum value of a function.
Data analysis: Inequalities are used to analyze data and make predictions about future trends.
Engineering: Inequalities are used to design and optimize systems, such as electrical circuits and mechanical systems.

Conclusion

$Solving and graphing inequalities are essential skills in mathematics. By following the steps outlined in this article, we can solve and graph the inequality $-5m \leq -25$. The solution is $m \geq 5$, and the graph is a closed circle at $5$ and a shaded region to the right of the point. The solution can be entered in interval notation as $[5, \infty)$.<br/> **Solving and Graphing Inequalities: A Q&A Guide**$

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed how to solve and graph the inequality $-5m \leq -25$ . In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about solving and graphing inequalities.

Q: What is the difference between a linear inequality and a quadratic inequality?

A: A linear inequality is an inequality that can be written in the form $ax + b \leq c$ or $ax + b \geq c$ , where $a$ , $b$ , and $c$ are constants and $x$ is the variable. A quadratic inequality is an inequality that can be written in the form $ax^2 + bx + c \leq 0$ or $ax^2 + bx + c \geq 0$ , where $a$ , $b$ , and $c$ are constants and $x$ is the variable.

Q: How do I solve a linear inequality?

A: To solve a linear inequality, you need to isolate the variable on one side of the inequality. You can do this by adding or subtracting the same value to both sides of the inequality, or by multiplying or dividing both sides of the inequality by the same non-zero value.

Q: How do I graph a linear inequality?

A: To graph a linear inequality, you need to plot the number line and mark the point that corresponds to the value of the variable. You then shade the region to the left or right of the point, depending on the direction of the inequality.

Q: What is the difference between a closed circle and an open circle on a graph?

A: A closed circle on a graph represents a point that is included in the solution set, while an open circle represents a point that is not included in the solution set.

Q: How do I enter a solution in interval notation?

A: To enter a solution in interval notation, you need to use the following notation:

$[a, b]$

where $a$ is the lower bound and $b$ is the upper bound.

Q: What is the difference between a discrete interval and a continuous interval?

A: A discrete interval is an interval that consists of a finite number of points, while a continuous interval is an interval that consists of an infinite number of points.

Q: How do I determine the direction of the inequality when graphing a solution?

A: To determine the direction of the inequality when graphing a solution, you need to consider the sign of the coefficient of the variable. If the coefficient is positive, the inequality is greater than or equal to, and if the coefficient is negative, the inequality is less than or equal to.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving and graphing inequalities?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving and graphing inequalities include:

Reversing the direction of the inequality sign: When dividing or multiplying an inequality by a negative number, you need to reverse the direction of the inequality sign.
Not isolating the variable: You need to isolate the variable on one side of the inequality.
Not considering the direction of the inequality: You need to consider the direction of the inequality when graphing the solution.

Conclusion

Solving and graphing inequalities are essential skills in mathematics. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can solve and graph linear and quadratic inequalities. Remember to avoid common mistakes and to consider the direction of the inequality when graphing a solution.

Real-World Applications

Solving and graphing inequalities have several real-world applications, including:

Optimization problems: Inequalities are used to model optimization problems, such as finding the maximum or minimum value of a function.
Data analysis: Inequalities are used to analyze data and make predictions about future trends.
Engineering: Inequalities are used to design and optimize systems, such as electrical circuits and mechanical systems.