Use the graph to solve each equation or inequality. Use interval notation where appropriate. 7x(x - 1)(x - 2) < 0
Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
1. Equations & Inequalities
Linear Inequalities
Problem 8
Textbook Question
Use the graph to solve each equation or inequality. Use interval notation where appropriate. 2(X-2) / {(X-1)(X-3)} < 0

Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the rational inequality given: \(\frac{2(X-2)}{(X-1)(X-3)} < 0\).
Determine the critical points by setting the numerator and denominator equal to zero: numerator zero at \(X=2\), denominator zero at \(X=1\) and \(X=3\). These points divide the number line into intervals.
Analyze the sign of the rational expression on each interval determined by the critical points: \((-\infty, 1)\), \((1, 2)\), \((2, 3)\), and \((3, \infty)\). Use test points from each interval to check whether the expression is positive or negative.
Remember that the expression is undefined at \(X=1\) and \(X=3\) (vertical asymptotes), so these points are not included in the solution set. Also, since the inequality is strict (\(<\) 0), do not include \(X=2\) where the expression equals zero.
Express the solution as the union of intervals where the expression is negative, using interval notation, and verify this with the graph by observing where the curve lies below the x-axis.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Functions and Their Graphs
A rational function is a ratio of two polynomials, often resulting in vertical asymptotes where the denominator is zero. Understanding the graph helps identify where the function is positive or negative, and where it is undefined, which is crucial for solving inequalities involving rational expressions.
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How to Graph Rational Functions
Solving Rational Inequalities
To solve rational inequalities, determine the critical points by setting numerator and denominator equal to zero. These points divide the number line into intervals where the function's sign can be tested. The solution includes intervals where the inequality holds true, expressed in interval notation.
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Guided course
Rationalizing Denominators
Interval Notation and Sign Analysis
Interval notation concisely represents solution sets on the number line. Sign analysis involves testing values in each interval between critical points to determine if the function is positive or negative, guiding which intervals satisfy the inequality.
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Interval Notation
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