Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
1. Equations & Inequalities
Linear Inequalities
Problem 84b
Textbook Question
Solve each inequality. Give the solution set in interval notation. (x+7)/(2x+1)<0
![](/channels/images/assetPage/verifiedSolution.png)
1
Identify the critical points by setting the numerator and denominator equal to zero: \(x + 7 = 0\) and \(2x + 1 = 0\).
Solve these equations to find the critical points: \(x = -7\) and \(x = -\frac{1}{2}\).
Use these critical points to divide the number line into intervals: \((-\infty, -7)\), \((-7, -\frac{1}{2})\), and \((-\frac{1}{2}, \infty)\).
Test a point from each interval in the inequality \(\frac{x+7}{2x+1} < 0\) to determine where the inequality holds true.
Write the solution set in interval notation, including only the intervals where the inequality is satisfied.
Recommended similar problem, with video answer:
![](/channels/images/assetPage/verifiedSolution.png)
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
6mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Inequalities
Inequalities express a relationship where one side is not equal to the other, often using symbols like <, >, ≤, or ≥. In this context, we are dealing with a rational inequality, which involves a fraction. Understanding how to manipulate and solve inequalities is crucial for finding the values of x that satisfy the given condition.
Recommended video:
Linear Inequalities
Rational Functions
A rational function is a ratio of two polynomials. In the inequality (x+7)/(2x+1)<0, the numerator is x+7 and the denominator is 2x+1. Analyzing the behavior of rational functions involves identifying where the function is positive or negative, which is essential for solving the inequality.
Recommended video:
Intro to Rational Functions
Interval Notation
Interval notation is a way of representing a set of numbers between two endpoints. It uses brackets [ ] for inclusive endpoints and parentheses ( ) for exclusive ones. When solving inequalities, expressing the solution set in interval notation provides a clear and concise way to communicate the range of values that satisfy the inequality.
Recommended video:
Interval Notation
Related Videos
Related Practice