Chapter 2: Problem 31
For Problems \(19-34\), graph the solution set for each compound inequality, and express the solution sets in interval notation. $$ x>-2 \text { or } x<3 $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The solution set is \((-2, 3)\) in interval notation.
Step by step solution
01
Understand Each Inequality Separately
First, understand the two parts of the compound inequality separately. The first inequality is \( x > -2 \), which means \( x \) includes all values greater than \(-2\). The second inequality is \( x < 3 \), which represents all values less than \(3\).
02
Identify the Type of Compound Inequality
Since the compound inequality uses "or," it means we are looking for values of \( x \) that satisfy either one of the inequalities or both. This type of inequality results in a solution set that includes all values that satisfy at least one of the inequalities.
03
Combine the Inequalities and Graph
On a number line, plot both inequalities: \( x > -2 \) is represented by an open circle at \(-2\) and a line extending to the right. \( x < 3 \) is represented by an open circle at \(3\) and a line extending to the left. Since it's an "or" compound inequality, combine these, resulting in a graph that shows all numbers from \(-2\) to \(3\), not including \(-2\) and \(3\) themselves.
04
Express in Interval Notation
The entire solution set on the number line includes every number greater than \(-2\) or less than \(3\). In interval notation, this is expressed as: \((-2, 3)\). This notation signifies that values are included from just above \(-2\) up to just below \(3\), not including the endpoints.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Graphing Inequalities
When working with inequalities, visualizing them on a number line is a powerful way to understand solutions. Let's explore how this works with the compound inequality \(x > -2 \text{ or } x < 3\).
To graph this inequality, start by focusing on each part separately.
To graph this inequality, start by focusing on each part separately.
- The inequality \(x > -2\) indicates that we need to plot all values greater than -2 on the number line. A handy way to represent this is to draw an open circle (which means -2 is not included) at -2 and shade the line extending to the right.
- Similarly, for \(x < 3\), place an open circle at 3 and shade the line extending to the left, representing all numbers less than 3.
Interval Notation
Interval notation is a concise, mathematical language to describe the range of solutions for inequalities. It provides a clear visual of which numbers are included in a set.For the inequality \(x > -2 \text{ or } x < 3\), the interval notation is \((-2, 3)\). Here's why:
- The use of parentheses \((\) and \()\) denotes that endpoint values are not included. Thus, -2 and 3 are not part of the solution, aligning with the open circles on the graph.
- If the solution included the exact boundaries, we'd use brackets \([\) and \()]\) instead, showing that those values are part of the solution.
- Interval notation is read from left to right, showing the span from just above -2 to just below 3 for our example.
Inequality Solutions
Solving inequalities provides insights into the range of possible values a variable can take. In our compound inequality \(x > -2 \text{ or } x < 3\), interpreting this solution means understanding which values satisfy the inequality.For compound inequalities:
- "Or" statements are satisfied if any part is true. Any number greater than -2 or less than 3 fits the solution.
- There’s no "intersection"; the solution doesn't need to satisfy both parts simultaneously, unlike "and" compound inequalities.
- Check solutions by substituting numbers back into the original inequalities to ensure they maintain their truth in that range.