Use the graph to solve each equation or inequality. Use interval notation where appropriate. 2(x-2) / {(x-1)(x-3)} ≤ 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 31
Textbook Question
Solve each polynomial inequality. Give the solution set in interval notation. -(x - 3)(x - 4)2 (x - 5) > 0
Verified step by step guidance1
First, rewrite the inequality clearly: \(-(x - 3)(x - 4)^2 (x - 5) > 0\).
Identify the critical points by setting each factor equal to zero: \(x - 3 = 0\), \(x - 4 = 0\), and \(x - 5 = 0\). These give \(x = 3\), \(x = 4\), and \(x = 5\).
Determine the sign of each factor in the intervals defined by the critical points: \((-\infty, 3)\), \((3, 4)\), \((4, 5)\), and \((5, \infty)\).
Consider the multiplicity of each factor: \((x - 4)^2\) has even multiplicity, so its sign does not change across \(x=4\). Also, remember the leading negative sign in front of the product affects the overall sign.
Test a sample value from each interval in the inequality to determine where the product is greater than zero, then express the solution set in interval notation based on these results.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
9mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Polynomial Inequalities
Polynomial inequalities involve expressions where a polynomial is compared to zero using inequality signs like >, <, ≥, or ≤. Solving them requires finding the values of the variable that make the inequality true, often by analyzing the sign of the polynomial over different intervals.
Recommended video:
Linear Inequalities
Critical Points and Sign Analysis
Critical points are the values of the variable where the polynomial equals zero, found by setting each factor equal to zero. These points divide the number line into intervals, and testing the sign of the polynomial in each interval helps determine where the inequality holds.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Point-Slope Form
Multiplicity of Roots
The multiplicity of a root refers to how many times a factor appears in the polynomial. Even multiplicities cause the graph to touch the x-axis and not change sign at that root, while odd multiplicities cause the graph to cross the x-axis, changing the sign of the polynomial.
Recommended video:
Imaginary Roots with the Square Root Property
Related Videos
Related Practice
Textbook Question
474
views
