SOLUTION: <Could someone please help me to understand how to solve this type of problem? I just cannot seem to get it. I posted another one that is different. Solve each rational inequality

Algebra ->  Inequalities -> SOLUTION: <Could someone please help me to understand how to solve this type of problem? I just cannot seem to get it. I posted another one that is different. Solve each rational inequality      Log On


   



Question 40620: Solve each rational inequality and state the solution set using interval notation.
x + 3/x lessthan or eqaul to -2

(I don't know why this dosen't post right. x + 3 over x is lessthen or eqaul to -2)

Answer by junior403(76) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Solve the rational inequality and state the solution set using interval notation.
%28x%2B3%29%2F%28x%29%3C=+-2
Ok, first we need to eliminate the fraction %28x%2B3%29%2F%28x%29 by multiplying both sides of the equation by the denominator x.
This will create an equation that we can work with more easily.
x%28%28x%2B3%29%2F%28x%29%29%3C=+-2%28x%29
Now we can simplify by canceling out the x's on the left side and multiplying on the right.
x%2B3%3C=+-2x
Now we can subtract the x from both sides of the equation...
x + 3 - x = 3 and -2x -x = -3x
so...
3%3C=+-3x
Now, this may get a little tricky...
We need to isolate the variable x. In order to do that we need to divide both sides by -3.
However, the rule for inequalities is that when we divide by a NEGATIVE number, we ALWAYS have to chanbge the inequality sign. so...
3%3C=+-3x 3/-3 = -1 and 3x/3 = x
And remember to change the sign.
So...
-1%3E=+x
So this tells us that our variable x will always be less than or equal to -1.
The bracket ] tells us that -1 is included.
So we show this in interval notation...
(-~,-1] or (negative infinity, -1]
I hope this helps.
Good Luck!