Question 33234
An example of a linear equation would be 8 = -3x - 7
To solve, 
8 = -3x - 7
15 = -3x
15/-3 = x
-5 = x

For a linear equality, we can use the same equation but add a less than sign:
8 < -3x - 7
15 < -3x
15/-3 > x
-5 > x

The difference between solving equations and inequalities is evident when you are dealing with multiplying or dividing by a negative number. Otherwise, manipulation is the same.