Solve each rational inequality. Give the solution set in interval notation. See Examples 4 and 5. 1 /{x+ 2} > 1 /{ x -3}

Verified step by step guidance

1. Start by setting up the inequality: \( \frac{1}{x+2} > \frac{1}{x-3} \).
2. Subtract \( \frac{1}{x-3} \) from both sides to get a single rational expression: \( \frac{1}{x+2} - \frac{1}{x-3} > 0 \).
3. Find a common denominator for the fractions, which is \((x+2)(x-3)\), and rewrite the inequality: \( \frac{(x-3) - (x+2)}{(x+2)(x-3)} > 0 \).
4. Simplify the numerator: \( (x-3) - (x+2) = -5 \), so the inequality becomes \( \frac{-5}{(x+2)(x-3)} > 0 \).
5. Determine the critical points by setting the denominator equal to zero: \( x+2 = 0 \) and \( x-3 = 0 \), giving critical points \( x = -2 \) and \( x = 3 \).

Key Concepts

Rational Inequalities

Rational inequalities involve expressions that are ratios of polynomials set in an inequality format. To solve them, one must determine where the rational expression is greater than or less than zero. This often requires finding critical points where the expression is undefined or equals zero, and then testing intervals to see where the inequality holds true.

Interval Notation

Interval notation is a mathematical notation used to represent a range of values. It uses parentheses and brackets to indicate whether endpoints are included (closed interval) or excluded (open interval). For example, the interval (2, 5] includes all numbers greater than 2 and up to 5, including 5 but not 2.

Critical Points

Critical points are values of the variable where the rational expression is either zero or undefined. These points are essential in solving rational inequalities as they divide the number line into intervals. By testing these intervals, one can determine where the inequality is satisfied, leading to the solution set.