Inequality

Definition

Inequality is a mathematical relationship between two quantities where one is greater or less than the other. It is a fundamental concept in mathematics that extends beyond the simple equality of values and allows for the comparison and analysis of different magnitudes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Inequalities can be used to represent and solve a wide range of real-world problems, from resource allocation to decision-making.
2. The properties of real numbers, such as the order properties, are crucial in understanding and manipulating inequalities.
3. Inequalities involving radicals, such as square roots or higher-order roots, require special consideration due to the nature of the radical function.
4. Solving inequalities often involves techniques like isolating the variable, factoring, or using properties of inequalities to find the solution set.
5. Graphing inequalities on the coordinate plane can provide a visual representation of the solution set and aid in understanding the relationship between the quantities.

Review Questions

• Explain how the properties of real numbers, such as the order properties, are used in the context of inequalities.
  • The properties of real numbers, including the order properties, are fundamental in understanding and working with inequalities. For example, the property that states if $a > b$ and $b > c$, then $a > c$, can be used to compare and relate different quantities in an inequality. Additionally, the properties that govern the behavior of operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, with inequalities are crucial in solving and manipulating inequalities to find the solution set.
• Describe the role of inequalities in the context of using radicals in functions.
  • Inequalities involving radicals, such as square roots or higher-order roots, require special consideration due to the nature of the radical function. The behavior of the radical function, including its domain restrictions and range, must be taken into account when working with inequalities. For example, solving an inequality like $\sqrt{x} > 5$ requires understanding the properties of the square root function and its relationship to the real number line. Manipulating and graphing such inequalities can provide valuable insights into the behavior of radical functions.
• Analyze how the concept of compound inequalities can be applied to real-world problems and decision-making.
  • Compound inequalities, which involve the combination of two or more inequalities that must be satisfied simultaneously, have numerous applications in real-world scenarios. In resource allocation problems, for instance, compound inequalities can be used to represent constraints and optimize the distribution of limited resources. In decision-making processes, compound inequalities can help evaluate multiple criteria or conditions that must be met, allowing for more informed and comprehensive decision-making. The ability to understand and work with compound inequalities is a valuable skill in various fields, from economics and finance to engineering and scientific problem-solving.

Related terms

Strict Inequality: A strict inequality is a relationship where one quantity is strictly greater than or strictly less than another quantity, denoted by the symbols '>' or '<'.

Weak Inequality: A weak inequality is a relationship where one quantity is greater than or equal to, or less than or equal to, another quantity, denoted by the symbols '≥' or '≤'.

Compound Inequality: A compound inequality is a combination of two or more inequalities that must be satisfied simultaneously, often connected by the logical operators 'and' or 'or'.