Chapter 1

Linear Equations and

Inequalities

3 × 4 = 10
1.1 Introduction
2+3≠5
An equation is formed when two algebraic Neither True or False Equations
expressions are set equal to each other by 𝑥 +3=5
equal sign 00 =00 2𝑥 + 3 = 6 − 𝑥
The variable equations can be true or false
A linear equation is an equation with if and only if we are given the value of the
the highest degree being one- the highest variable. The first is true if and only if 𝑥 = 2
exponent on the variable is positive one. and false if 𝑥 = 1. In the other equation,
In linear equations, there are no negative 2𝑥 + 3 = 6 − 𝑥 is true when 𝑥 = 1 otherwise
exponent nor rational (radical) powers on it is false. Such equations are called open
the variable. sentences (or statements)

If an equation can be written in the form

𝑎𝑥 +𝑏 = 0, 𝑎𝑥 = 𝑏 or 𝑥 = 𝑎 then the equation
1.2 Key concepts
is linear. An algebraic equation is an equation which
comprises of variable(s). It has the equal
Numerical equations can be true or false
sign connecting two algebraic expressions
but equations with variables cannot be true
or terms. The expression on the Left Hand
or false unless we know the value of the
Side (LHS) and the expression on the Right
variable. Below are examples of equations.
Hand Side (RHS).
True numerical Equations
2+3=5 In algebraic equation, the values of LHS
5 − 7 = −2 and RHS are equal for some values of the
False Numerical Equations variable. These values of the variable are the

1
solution of the equation. • square expressions on both sides
• take cube root of expressions on
Algebraic equation has two sides, the LHS both sides, etc.
and RHS connected by‘ =0 .

1.2.1 Finding the solution

In early stages of our education, we were
a) In solving linear equations, we assume introduced to equations in the form:
that the equation is ballanced. Variables a) 3 + = 6 b) 3 − 5 =
can be transposed from one side of the c) ÷4=2 d) 4 × =8
equal sign inversing the operation sign. We were to fill in the boxes. Later the
boxes were replaced by letters, what we call
b) Transpose means moving a term from
unknowns or variables as we progress on
one side of ‘=’ to the other. When you
the education ladder.
transpose a term or expression, inverse
its operation sign. Example 𝑥 + 5 = 7, 𝑥 The box equations above can be represented
on LHS is transposed to −𝑥 on RHS to as:
produce 5 = 7 − 𝑥 a) 3 + x = 6 b) 3 − 5 = 𝑦
Operation (Sign) Inverse
c) 𝑥 ÷ 4 = 2 d) 4 × 𝑦 = 8
(Transpose to)
+ − The boxes or the letters serve as
÷ × placeholders; they hold the place of
√
square root, 𝑥 𝑥 2 , square unknown numbers.
√
cube root, 3 𝑥 𝑥 3 , cube
1 1/𝑛
Now see how the equations are solved.
𝑛 𝑡ℎ exponent, 𝑥 𝑥 𝑛 , nth exponent
√
𝑛𝑡ℎ root, 𝑛 𝑥 𝑥 𝑛 , nth exponent

c) Terms or expressions can be

interchanged or swapped. Example
Steps Explanation
2 − 𝑥 = 3𝑥 + 1 is interchanged to
3+ 𝑥 =6
3𝑥 + 1 = 2 − 𝑥 . Transpose 3 to −3
𝑥 =6−3
Simplify
d) We can perform the same operation to 𝑥 =3
both sides of the equal sign to maintain 3−5= 𝑦
Simplify
the ballance, −2 = 𝑦
Interchange sides
𝑦 = −2
• add the same number to both sides,
𝑥 ÷4=2
• subtract the same number from
𝑥 =2×4 Transpose ÷ 4 to ×4
both sides,
𝑥 =8
• multiply both sides by the same
4 ×𝑦 = 8
non-zero number, 4𝑦 8
• divide the same non-zero number = Divide both sides by 4
4 4
by both sides. 𝑦=2

2
1.2.2 Steps to find the Solution 1.3 Simple Equations
Example 1 Solve 3𝑥 − 5 = 5 + 𝑥
a) Simplify the expressions or terms on
Solution
both sides if necessary.
3𝑥 − 5 = 5 + 𝑥
• expand, if equation contains Transpose 𝑥 on RHS to −𝑥 on LHS
brackets, using distributive
(3𝑥 − 5) − 𝑥 = 5
property,
3𝑥 − 𝑥 − 5 = 5
• clear fractions, if equation involves Simplify
fractions by multiplying both sides 2𝑥 − 5 = 5
by the LCM Transpose −5 on LHS to 5 on RHS
2𝑥 = 5 + 5
• combine like terms
Simplify
b) Isolate all terms and expressions from 2𝑥 = 10
the variable. Divide both sides by 2
2𝑥 5
c) If the variable has coefficient, multiply =
2 2
both sides by the reciprocal of the 𝑥 =5
coefficient (Divide both sides by the Example 2 Find the solution set of
coefficient of the variable). 5 − 2𝑥 = 6𝑥 + 21
Solution
d) Check your answer if it satisfies the
equation. 5 − 2𝑥 = 6𝑥 + 21
Interhange sides (swap sides)
6𝑥 + 21 = 5 − 2𝑥
1.2.3 Solution Add 2𝑥 to both sides
2𝑥 + (6𝑥 + 21) = 2𝑥 + (5 − 2𝑥)
Solution is a number (value) which when
2𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 21 = 5 + 2𝑥 − 2𝑥
substitute for the variable will make the
equation true -set of value(s) that satisfy the 8𝑥 + 21 = 5
equation. In short, it is an answer to the Add −21 to both sides
equation. −21 + (8𝑥 + 21) = −21 + 5
Solve - it is the step by step procedure 8𝑥 − 21 + 21 = 5 − 21
(method) to get the solution. -It is the 8𝑥 = −16
process to isolate the variable on one side 1
Multiply each term by
of ‘=’ 8
1 1
(8𝑥) = (−16)
Solution is obtained if coefficient of the 8 8
variable is positive one. 𝑥 = −2

3
Alternative method −5𝑧 = −28
5 − 2𝑥 = 6𝑥 + 21 −5𝑧 −28
=
−5 −5
Subtract 6𝑥 from both sides 3
𝑧=5
5 − 2𝑥 − 6𝑥 = 6𝑥 + 21 − 6𝑥
5
3

5 − 8𝑥 = 21 Truth set is 𝑧 : 𝑧 = 5
5
Subtract 5 from both sides
Example 5 Determine the value of 𝑚 in:
5 − 8𝑥 − 5 = 21 − 5
8𝑚 − 3(2 + 𝑚) = 15𝑚 + 35
−8𝑥 = 16 Solution
Divide each term by −8 8𝑚 − 3(2 + 𝑚) = 15𝑚 + 34
−8𝑥 16
=− 8𝑚 − 6 − 3𝑚 = 15𝑚 + 34
−8 8
𝑥 = −2 8𝑚 − 3𝑚 − 15𝑚 = 34 + 6
Solution set is {𝑥 : 𝑥 = −2}
−10𝑚 = 40
40
𝑚=−
1.4 Equations containing 10
𝑚 = −4
brackets
If equation contains brackets, use the 1.5 Equations containing
distributive property to expand and
simplify.
fractions
Change the fractions (rational coefficients)
Example 3 Solve: 3𝑦 − 5(3 − 𝑦) = 1
to integers by multiplying each term by
Solution
LCM of the denominators.
3𝑦 − 5(3 − 𝑦) = 1
3𝑦 − 15 + 5𝑦 = 1 First change Mixed Fractions to Improper
Fractions if there is any.
3𝑦 + 5𝑦 = 1 + 15
3 1
8𝑦 = 16 Example 6 Solve (2𝑦 − 1) = −
4 2
8𝑦 16 Solution
= 3 1
8 8 (2𝑦 − 1) = −
𝑦=2 4 2
3 3 1
𝑦− =
{𝑦 : 𝑦 = 2} 2 4 2
LCM of 2 and 4 is 4, multiply each term by
Exaample 4 Find the truth set of:
4
2(5 − 𝑧) + 12 = 3(𝑧 − 2)
3 3 1
Solution 4( 𝑦) − 4( ) = −4( )
2 4 2
2(5 − 𝑧) + 12 = 3(𝑧 − 2) 2(3𝑦) − 3 = −2(1)
10 − 2𝑧 + 12 = 3𝑧 − 6 6𝑦 − 3 = −2
−2𝑧 − 3𝑧 = −6 − 12 − 10 6𝑦 = −2 + 3

4
 3  13 
6𝑦 = 1
𝑥 
3 +3 − 3(2𝑥)+ 3(10) = 3
1 3 3 3
𝑦= 𝑥 + 3 − 6𝑥 + 30 = 13
6
Example 7 Find the truth set of −5𝑥 + 33 = 13
1
(4𝑛 + 3) = 7𝑛 + 4
4 −5𝑥 = 13 − 33
Solution −5𝑥 = −20
1 1 −20
(4𝑛) + (3) = 7𝑛 + 4 𝑥=
4 4 −5
3 𝑥 =4
𝑛 + = 7𝑛 + 4
4
3 Example 9 Find the value of 𝑥 in
4(𝑛) + 4( ) = 4(7𝑛) + 4(4) 1 1 2 1
4 (𝑥 + 4) − 1 = 7 − (𝑥 − 1)
3 2 3 2
4𝑛 + 3 = 28𝑛 + 16
Solution
4𝑛 − 28𝑛 = 16 − 3 1 1 2 1
(𝑥 + 4) − 1 = 7 − (𝑥 − 1)
3 2 3 2
−24𝑛 = 13
𝑥 4 3 23 𝑥 1
13 + − = − +
𝑛=− 3 3 2 3 2 2
24
𝑥 4 3 23 𝑥 1

n 13 o 6 + − =6 − +
Truth set is 𝑛 : 𝑛 = − 3 3 2 3 2 2
24
2𝑥 + 8 − 9 = 46 − 3𝑥 + 3
Example 8 Solve for 𝑦 in
1 1 1 2𝑥 − 1 = 49 − 3𝑥
2 − (𝑦 − 2) = 3𝑦 −
3 2 6
Solution 2𝑥 + 3𝑥 = 49 + 1
7 1 1
− 𝑦 + 1 = 3𝑦 − 5𝑥 = 50
3 2 6
7 1 1 𝑥 = 50/5
6( ) − 6( 𝑦) + 6(1) = 6(3𝑦) − 6( )
3 2 6
2(7) − 3(𝑦) + 6 = 18𝑦 − 1 𝑥 = 10

14 − 3𝑦 + 6 = 18𝑦 − 1
1.6 Rational Equations
−3𝑦 − 18𝑦 = −1 − 6 − 14
If an equation contains at least one rational
−21𝑦 = −21
expression, it is considered a rational
−21
𝑦=
−21 equation.
𝑦=1
Recall that a rational number is the ratio of
Example 8 Solve for 𝑥 in 5 3
1 1 two numbers, such as or . A rational
(𝑥 + 3) − 2(𝑥 − 5) = 4 3 7
3 3 expression is the ratio or quotient of two
polynomials. Here are three examples.
Solution
1 1 𝑥 +1 1 4
(𝑥 + 3) − 2(𝑥 − 5) = 4 or 2
3 3 2
,
𝑥 −9 𝑥 −3 𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 3
𝑥 3 13
+ − 2𝑥 + 10 = Rational equations have a variable in
3 3 3

5
 𝑥 − 5 4  5 1
the denominator in at least one of the 45𝑥 − = 45𝑥 −
terms. Our aim is to perform algebraic 𝑥 9 3𝑥 5
operations to make the variables appear in 45(𝑥 − 5) − 5𝑥 (4) = 15(5) − 9𝑥 (1)
the numerator. Eliminate all denominators 45𝑥 − 425 − 20𝑥 = 75 − 9𝑥
by multiplying both sides of the equation by
25𝑥 − 225 = 75 − 9𝑥
the least common multiple (LCM).
25𝑥 + 9𝑥 = 75 + 225
Finding the LCM is identifying an
34𝑥 = 300
expression that contains the highest 300
power of all of the factors in all of the 𝑥=
34
denominators. We do this because when 150
𝑥=
the equation is multiplied by the LCM, the 17
common factors in the LCM and in each Example 11 Solve the following rational
denominator will equal one and will cancel 2 3 7
equation: − =
out. 𝑥 2 2𝑥
Solution
Steps to solve a given rational equation: LCM = 2𝑥 as it is a multiple of 𝑥 and 2.
2 3 7
− =
𝑥 2 2𝑥
(a) Factor all denominators in the 2 3 7
equation. 2𝑥 − = 2𝑥
𝑥 2 2𝑥
2(2) − 3(𝑥) = 7
(b) Find and exclude values that make the
equation undefined. 4 − 3𝑥 = 7
4 − 7 = 3𝑥
(c) Find the LCM.
3𝑥 = −3
(d) Multiply the whole equation by the 3𝑥 3
=−
LCM. If the LCM is correct, there will 3 3
be no denominators left. 𝑥 = −1
Example 12 Solve the rational equation:
(e) Solve the remaining equation. 2 1 1
= −
3𝑥 4 6𝑥
(f) Check solutions in the original Solution
equations to avoid a solution producing 4 = 2 × 2 = 22, 3𝑥 = 𝑥 × 3 and 6𝑥 = 𝑥 × 2 × 3,
zero in a denominator. LCM = 22 × 3𝑥 = 12𝑥
2 1 1
= −
3𝑥 4 6𝑥
Example 10 Solve for 𝑥 in: 2 1 1
𝑥 −5 4 5 1 12𝑥 = 12𝑥 −
− = − 3𝑥 4 6𝑥
𝑥 9 3𝑥 5
Solution 4(2) = 3𝑥 (1) − 2(1)
Lcm of 𝑥, 3 , 5 and 9 is 45𝑥 8 = 3𝑥 − 2
𝑥 −5 4 5 1
− = −
𝑥 9 3𝑥 5 3𝑥 = 8 + 2

6
 3𝑥 = 10 3𝑥 = 5(𝑥 − 6)
10
𝑥= 3𝑥 = 5𝑥 − 30
3
1 3𝑥 − 5𝑥 = −30
𝑥 =3
3
Example 13 Solve the following rational −2𝑥 = −30
1 1 3 −30
equation: = − 𝑥=
𝑥 10 4𝑥 −2
Solution 𝑥 = 15
10 = 2×5, 4𝑥 = 22 ×𝑥, LCM = 22 ×5×𝑥 = 20𝑥 𝑥 5 1
1 1 3 (b) = −
= − 𝑥 −3 𝑥 −3 2
𝑥 10 4𝑥 Solution
1 1 3 𝑥 5 1
20𝑥 = 20𝑥 − = −
𝑥 10 4𝑥 𝑥 −3 𝑥 −3 2
20(1) = 2𝑥 (1) − 5(3) 5(2) − 1(𝑥 − 3)
=
2(𝑥 − 3)
20 = 2𝑥 − 15 10 − 𝑥 + 3
=
2𝑥 − 15 = 20 2(𝑥 − 3)
𝑥 13 − 𝑥
2𝑥 = 20 + 15 =
𝑥 − 3 2(𝑥 − 3)
2𝑥 = 35 LCM is 2(𝑥
 𝑥− 2)  13 − 𝑥 
35 1 2(𝑥 − 3) = 2(𝑥 − 3)
𝑥= = 17 𝑥 −3 2(𝑥 − 3)
2 2
Example 14 Solve the rational equation: 2𝑥 = 13 − 𝑥
7 5 3
− =− 2𝑥 + 𝑥 = 13
4 2𝑥 4𝑥
Solution
3𝑥 = 13
2𝑥 = 2 × 𝑥, 4𝑥 = 4 × 𝑥 LCM = 4 × 𝑥 = 4𝑥 13
7 5 3 𝑥=
− =− 3
4 2𝑥 4𝑥
7 5   3
4𝑥 − = 4𝑥 − 1.6.1 Use cross multiplication
4 2𝑥 4𝑥
7𝑥 − 2(5) = −3
We use cross multiplication when there
7𝑥 − 10 = −3 are single fractions at both sides. That is
7𝑥 = −3 + 10 when the equality connects two rational
frations. If on one side of the equality, there
7𝑥 = 7
are two or more single rational fractions,
7
𝑥=
7 express them as single fraction and then
=1 use the Cross Multiplication to eliminate the
fractions.
Example 15 Solve the following rational
Given that
equations:
3 5
(a) =
𝑥 −6 𝑥 𝑎 𝑐
= then 𝑎𝑑 = 𝑏𝑐
Solution 𝑏 𝑑
3 5
=
𝑥 −6 𝑥 In case the equality connects single rational

7
fractions with same denominators at both 10𝑥 + 1 10𝑥 + 1
=
sides, then the denominators cancel off. 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 1 2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥
Equate numerator to zero and solve

𝑎 𝑏 10𝑥 + 1 = 0
= then 𝑎 = 𝑏
𝑐 𝑐 10𝑥 = −1
1
3𝑥+5 2𝑥+1 𝑥 =−
For instance, 2𝑥−3 = 2𝑥−3 is equivalent to 10
3𝑥 + 5 = 2𝑥 + 1. The LHS 2𝑥 − 3 cancels RHS Equate the denominator and solve
(2𝑥 − 3). 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 1 = 2𝑥 2 + 5𝑥
3𝑥 + 5 = 2𝑥 + 1 ⇒ 𝑥 = −4 2𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 5𝑥 = 1
3 4
Example 16 Solve =
𝑥 + 1 2𝑥 + 1 −4𝑥 = 1
Solution
3 4 1
𝑥 =−
=
𝑥 + 1 2𝑥 + 1 4
n 1 1o
3(2𝑥 + 1) = 4(𝑥 + 1) Truth set 𝑥 : 𝑥 = − , −
10 4
6𝑥 + 3 = 4𝑥 + 4
6𝑥 − 4𝑥 = 4 − 3 Example 18 Solve the rational equation after
factoring the denominators:
2𝑥 = 1 2 1 2𝑥
1 − = 2
𝑥= 𝑥 +1 𝑥 −1 𝑥 −1
2 Solution
In the case where numerators are same, 𝑥 2 − 1 = (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 1) , difference of two
equate one of the numerators to zero and squares
solve the resulting equation. And then 2 1 2𝑥
− = 2
equate the denominators to each other and 𝑥 +1 𝑥 −1 𝑥 −1
solve the resulting equation. 2(𝑥 − 1) − 1(𝑥 + 1) 2𝑥
= 2
𝑎 𝑎 (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 1) 𝑥 −1
= then 𝑎 = 0 and 𝑥 = 𝑦 2𝑥 − 2 − 𝑥 − 1 2𝑥
𝑥 𝑦 2
= 2
𝑥 −1 𝑥 −1
Denominators are same, so they cancel out
Example 17 Solve:
3 4 10𝑥 + 1 2𝑥 − 2 − 𝑥 − 1 = 2𝑥
+ = 2
𝑥 + 1 2𝑥 − 1 2𝑥 + 5𝑥 𝑥 − 3 = 2𝑥
Solution
Simplify the LHS 𝑥 − 2𝑥 = 3

3 4 3(2𝑥 − 1) + 4(𝑥 + 1) −𝑥 = 3
+ =
𝑥 + 1 2𝑥 − 1 (𝑥 + 1)(2𝑥 − 1) 𝑥 = −3
6𝑥 − 3 + 4𝑥 + 4
= 2 Example 19 Solve the rational equation:
2𝑥 − 𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 1 2 1 1
10𝑥 + 1 + = 2
= 2 𝑥 −2 𝑥 +1 𝑥 −𝑥 −2
2𝑥 + 𝑥 − 1
Now equate the resulting expression to the Solution
RHS, and solve. 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 2 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 𝑥 − 2
3 4 10𝑥 + 1
+ = 2 = 𝑥 (𝑥 − 2) + 1(𝑥 − 2)
𝑥 + 1 2𝑥 − 1 2𝑥 + 5𝑥

8
 = (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 2) of two squares
2 1 1 𝑥 5 1
+ = 2 2
= −
𝑥 −2 𝑥 +1 𝑥 −𝑥 −2 𝑥 −4 𝑥 −2 𝑥 +2
2(𝑥 + 1) + 1(𝑥 − 2) 1 𝑥 5(𝑥 + 2) − 1(𝑥 − 2)
=
(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 1)
=
(𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 2) (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 2) (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 2)
5𝑥 + 10 − 𝑥 + 2
2(𝑥 + 1) + (𝑥 − 2) = 1 =
(𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 2)
2𝑥 + 2 + 𝑥 − 2 = 1 𝑥 4𝑥 + 12
=
(𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 − 2) (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 2)
3𝑥 = 1
Same denominators cancel out
1
𝑥= 𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 12
3
Example 20 Find the truth set of:
5𝑥 − 2(𝑥 + 3) 3(𝑥 − 2) 𝑥 − 4𝑥 = 12
=
7𝑥 − (2𝑥 + 5) 4(𝑥 + 1) −3𝑥 = 12
Solution 12
𝑥 =−
5𝑥 − 2(𝑥 + 3) 3(𝑥 − 2) 3
=
7𝑥 − (2𝑥 + 5) 4(𝑥 + 1) = −4
5𝑥 − 2𝑥 − 6 3(𝑥 − 2) Solution set is {𝑥 : 𝑥 = −4}
=
7𝑥 − 2𝑥 − 5 4(𝑥 + 1)
3𝑥 − 6 3(𝑥 − 2) Example 22 Find the solution set of:
= 3 2
5𝑥 − 5 4(𝑥 + 1) =
𝑥 − 1 2𝑥 − 1
3(𝑥 − 2) 3(𝑥 − 2)
= Solution
5(𝑥 − 1) 4(𝑥 + 1) 3 2
Equate numerator to zero and solve =
𝑥 − 1 2𝑥 − 1
3(𝑥 − 2) = 0 Use cross multiplication

𝑥 −2=0 3(2𝑥 − 1) = 2(𝑥 − 1)

𝑥 =2 6𝑥 − 3 = 2𝑥 − 2

Equate denominator and Solve 6𝑥 − 2𝑥 = −2 + 3

5(𝑥 − 1) = 4(𝑥 + 1) 4𝑥 = 1
1
5𝑥 − 5 = 4𝑥 + 4 𝑥=
4
5𝑥 − 4𝑥 = 4 + 5
n 1o
Solution set is 𝑥 : 𝑥 =
4
𝑥 =9
Example 23 Solve for 𝑥 in:
Truth set {𝑥 : 𝑥 = 2, 9}
3𝑥 − 5 2 − 3𝑥
Example 21 Find the solution set of: =
𝑥 5 1 2𝑥 + 3 5 − 2𝑥
2
= −
𝑥 −4 𝑥 −2 𝑥 +2 Solution
Solution 3𝑥 − 5 2 − 3𝑥
=
2𝑥 + 3 5 − 2𝑥
𝑥 2 − 4 = 𝑥 2 − 22 = (𝑥 − 2)(𝑥 + 2) , difference (3𝑥 − 5)(5 − 2𝑥) = (2 − 3𝑥)(2𝑥 + 3)

9
 2𝑥+3 1
3𝑥 (5−2𝑥) −5(5−2𝑥) = 2(2𝑥 +3) −3𝑥 (2𝑥 +3) 19. 5 = 2

15𝑥 − 6𝑥 2 − 25 + 10𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 6 − 6𝑥 2 − 9𝑥 20. 3

𝑥 = 1
5
15𝑥 + 10𝑥 − 6𝑥 2 − 25 = 4𝑥 − 9𝑥 − 6𝑥 2 + 6 21. 2𝑥+7
= −1
𝑥−4
2 2
25𝑥 − 6𝑥 − 25 = −5𝑥 − 6𝑥 + 6 𝑥 +2 𝑥 −3
22. + =1
25𝑥 + 5𝑥 − 6𝑥 2 + 6𝑥 2 = 6 + 25 3 4
30𝑥 = 31 23. 2𝑥+1 1−4𝑥
4 − 2 = 6
3𝑥+7

31 24. 𝑥
− 2𝑥−5
= 3
𝑥= 5 3 4
30 2𝑥−7
1 25. 3 −1= 𝑥−4
6
𝑥 =1
30
1
Solution set is {𝑥 : 𝑥 = 1 } 1.8 Word Problems
30
To solve practical (word) problems:
1.7 Exercise 1
Find the truth set of the following: (i) Read the problem carefully and
represent the unknown quantity by
1. 5(𝑥 − 3) = 2(𝑥 + 6) variable.
1
2. 2 (𝑥 + 6) = 𝑥 + 13 (2𝑥 − 5) (ii) Form the equation according to the
3. 5𝑥 − 32 = 68 given conditions.

4. 4𝑦 − 2 = 3𝑦 + 6 (iii) Solve the equation i.e., Find the value

5. 5𝑥 + 12 = 2(𝑥 + 6) of the unknown quantity (variable).

6. 2(3𝑦 + 24) = 5(2𝑦 + 8) (iv) check if your solution is correct.

7. 3(2𝑥 − 1) − 3𝑥 = 6(𝑥 + 2)
Step by step application of linear equation
8. 3(2𝑞 − 6) − 8(𝑞 − 1) = 6(𝑞 + 5) − 10(𝑞 + 4)
approach to solving practical word
9. 12 𝑝 + 14 𝑝 = 36 problems.
10. 11 = 0.5(𝑚 − 5) + 𝑚
Example 24: The sum of two numbers is
1
11. 2 (3𝑟 + 5) + 1.5(2𝑟 − 1) = 5 12 35. One of the numbers is 6 times the other
12. 𝑦 + 31 (𝑦 + 1) + 14 (𝑦 + 2) = 56 number. Find the numbers.
n o Solution
13. 34 (2𝑥 − 2) = 21 , Ans 𝑥 : 𝑥 = 43
Represent the smaller number by 𝑥
14. 13 𝑦 + 14 (2 − 𝑦) = 𝑦 − 2, Ans {𝑦 : 𝑦 = 30
11 }
Then, the bigger number is 6𝑥 → 6 times
15. 7𝑛 + 4 = 21 (4𝑛 + 3) Ans {𝑛 : 𝑛 = − 12 } the other
16. 2 13 – 12 (𝑥 − 2) = 3𝑥 – 1
6 Ans {𝑥 : 𝑥 = 1}
1
17. 3𝑥 − 6 = 6.5 + 35 𝑥 Ans {𝑥 : 𝑥 = 5}
2 3 2
18. 9𝑚+6 = 4(5𝑚+2) Ans {𝑚 : 𝑚 = 13 }

10
 Key Points Algebraic Let son’s present age → 𝑥
Expression mother’s present age → 2𝑥
One of the number is 𝑥 father’s present age → 2𝑥 + 5
The other number is 6𝑥 sum of their ages is 100
Sum of two numbers is 35 𝑥 + 6𝑥 = 35 𝑥 + (2𝑥) + (2𝑥 + 5) = 100
𝑥 + 2𝑥 + 2𝑥 + 5 = 100
Solving for 𝑥:
5𝑥 + 5 = 100
𝑥 + 6𝑥 = 35
5(𝑥 + 1) = 100
7𝑥 = 35
35 𝑥 + 1 = 20
𝑥=
7 𝑥 = 20 − 1
𝑥 =5 𝑥 = 19
The other number is 6(5) = 30. The Son’s age is 19, mother’s age 2 × 19 = 38 and
numbers are 5 and 30. father’s age is 2 × 19 + 5 = 38 + 5 = 43
Example 25: One-third of five more than a Two years ago, son was 19 − 2 = 17 years
number is the same as seven less than the Mother’s age then 38 − 2 = 36 years and
number. Find the number. Father was 43 − 2 = 41 years.
Solution
the number is 𝑥 Example 27 Kofi is two-thirds as old as Yaa
five more than a number → 𝑥 + 5 who is 6 years older than Anim, if two years
one-third of 5 more than a number → 𝑥+5
3
ago, the sum of their ages was 120. How old
is the same as →= are they now?
seven less than the number → 𝑥 − 7 solution
The resulting equation is Let present age of Anim be → 𝑥
𝑥 +5 Yaa is → 𝑥 + 6
=𝑥 −7
 3  Kofi is now → 23 (𝑥 + 6)
𝑥 +5
3 = 3(𝑥 − 7) Two years ago
3
Anim was → 𝑥 − 2
𝑥 + 5 = 3𝑥 − 21
Yaa was → 𝑥 + 6 − 2 = 𝑥 + 4
𝑥 − 3𝑥 = −21 − 5 Kofi was → 23 (𝑥 + 6) − 2 = 2𝑥+6
3
−2𝑥 = −26 Sum of their ages was 120
2𝑥 + 6
 
−26
𝑥= (𝑥 − 2) + (𝑥 + 4) + = 120
−2 3
𝑥 = 13 2𝑥 + 6
2𝑥 + 2 + = 120
Example 26 The sum of the ages of a son, 3 
2𝑥 + 6

mother and father is 100, the son is half as 3 2𝑥 + 2 + = 3(120)
3
old as the mother who is 5 years younger
6𝑥 + 6 + 2𝑥 + 6 = 360
than the father. Find their ages two years
ago. 8𝑥 + 12 = 360
Solution 8𝑥 = 360 − 12

11
 8𝑥 = 348 340 = 2(𝑙 + 𝑙 − 30)
348 340 = 4𝑙 − 60
𝑥=
8
4𝑙 = 340 + 60
𝑥 = 43.5
4𝑙 = 400
Anim is 43 years, 6 months old,
400
Yaa is 49 years and 6 months old 𝑙=
4
Kofi is 33 years. 𝑙 = 100
Example 28 The angles of an irregular The length is 100cm and the width is 70cm.
quadrilateral is such that one is 3 times
Example 30 The interior angles of a
the smallest angle, one is 40° less than two
triangle are 9𝑥, 5𝑥 − 5° and 6𝑥 − 15°.
times the smallest angle and the other is
Determine the kind of triangle.
50° less than 3 times the smallest angle, if
Solution
the smallest angle is 𝑥, find the size of the
We know that the sum of interior angles of
angles of the quadrilateral.
a triangle is 180°.
Solution
The angles of the quadrilateral are: 9𝑥 + 5𝑥 − 5° + 6𝑥 − 15° = 180°
𝑥, 3𝑥, 2𝑥 − 40° and 3𝑥 − 50° 9𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 6𝑥 = 180° + 5° + 15°
We know that the sum of ineriors angles of 20𝑥 = 200°
quadrilateral is 360°. 200°
𝑥=
𝑥 + (3𝑥) + (2𝑥 − 40°) + (3𝑥 − 50°) = 360° 20
𝑥 = 10°
𝑥 + 3𝑥 + 2𝑥 + 3𝑥 − 40° − 50° = 360°
The angles are 90°, 45° and 45°.
9𝑥 − 90° = 360°
It is isosceles right triangle.
9𝑥 = 360° + 90°
450° Example 31: The interior angles of a
𝑥=
9 pentagon are 9𝑥, 5𝑥 + 10°, 6𝑥 + 5°, 8𝑥 − 25°
𝑥 = 50° 𝑎𝑛𝑑 10𝑥 − 20°. Find the size of each of the
The angles are 50°, 150°, 60° and 100°. angles.
Solution
Example 29 The distance traced around Pentagon is a polygon with 5-sides. The
a rectangular field is 340cm, if the width sum of the interior angles is 540°. Therefore,
is 30cm shorter than the length, find the
9𝑥 + (5𝑥 + 10°) + (6𝑥 + 5°)+
dimenssions of the field.
Solution (8𝑥 − 25°) + (10𝑥 − 20°) = 540°
Distance around the field is the perimeter 9𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 8𝑥 + 10𝑥+
(P). 10° + 5° − 25° − 20° = 540°
𝑃 = 2(𝑙 + 𝑤) 38𝑥 − 30° = 540°
where 𝑙 is the length and 𝑤 is the width of
38𝑥 = 540° + 30°
the field. 𝑤 = 𝑙 − 30
38𝑥 = 570°
𝑃 = 2(𝑙 + 𝑤)

12
 570° Example 34: One-third of twice a number
𝑥=
38 less than 5 is equal to 5 less than one-sixth
𝑥 = 15° of the number. Find the number.
The angles are 135°, 85°, 95°, 95° and 130°. Solution
Let the number be: 𝑥
Example 32: The difference of the ages of
Twice a number: 2𝑥
a mother and her daughter is −30, if the
Twice a number less than 5: 5 − 2𝑥
daughter is one-third as old as the mother,
One-third of twice a number less than 5:
how old is mother before she gave birth to 1
3 (5 − 2𝑥)
the girl?
One-sixth of the number: 61 (𝑥)
Solution
5 less than one-sixth of the number: 61 (𝑥) −5
Let the daughter’s age be → 𝑥 1 1
Mother’s age is → 3𝑥 (5 − 2𝑥) = (𝑥) − 5
 3  6
Difference of their ages is negative, implies 1 1

6 (5 − 2𝑥) = 6 (𝑥) − 5
that mother’s age has been subtracted from 3 6
the daughter’s age, therefore 2(5 − 2𝑥) = 𝑥 − 6(5)
𝑥 − 3𝑥 = −30 10 − 4𝑥 = 𝑥 − 30
−2𝑥 = −30 −4𝑥 − 𝑥 = −30 − 10
−30 −5𝑥 = −40
𝑥=
−2 −40
𝑥 = 15 𝑥=
−5
The mother is 3(15)=45 years. 𝑥 =8
The mother was 45 − 15 = 30 years before Example 35: A number exceeds another
given birth to the girl. number by 13. If the sum of the numbers
is 73, find the numbers.
Example 33: Two-fifths of 5 less than a
Solution
number is the same as one less than one-
Let smaller number be: 𝑥
third of the number. Find the number.
The other number: 𝑥 + 13
Solution
Sum of the numbers is:
Let 𝑥 represent the number.
Two-fifths of 5 less than a number: 52 (𝑥 − 5) 𝑥 + (𝑥 + 13) = 73
one less than one-third of the number: 13 𝑥 −1 2𝑥 + 13 = 73
2 1 2𝑥 = 73 − 13
(𝑥 − 5) = 𝑥 − 1
5 3
2𝑥 − 10 𝑥 − 3 2𝑥 = 60
= 1
5 3 𝑥 = (60)
3(2𝑥 − 10) = 5(𝑥 − 3) 2
𝑥 = 30
6𝑥 − 30 = 5𝑥 − 15
The numbers are 30 and 30 + 13 = 43.
6𝑥 − 5𝑥 = −15 + 30
𝑥 = 15

13
1.8.1 Consecutive Numbers 3𝑥 + 6 = 39
3𝑥 = 39 − 6

They are numbers that follow each other 3𝑥 = 33

continuosly without gaps in a specific order 33
𝑥=
3
from smallest to largest. Examples:
𝑥 = 11
The three numbers are 11, 11+2=13,
a) 3, 6, 9, 12 consecutive multiples of 11+4=15
three, 11, 13 , 15 are the consecutive numbers.
common difference is 3, 12-9=3, 9-6=3,
6-3=3 Example 37: The product of two
b) 7, 14, 21, 28 consecutive multiples of consecutive numbers is 72, find the
seven numbers.
common difference is 7, 28-21=7, 21- Solution
14=7, 14-7=7 let 𝑥 the first number
c) 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 consecutive even Second number is 𝑥 + 1
numbers Product is 72
common difference is 2, 12-10=2, 10- 𝑥 (𝑥 + 1) = 72
8=2, 8-6=2, 5-4=2 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 = 72
d) 5, 7, 9, 11 consecutive odd numbers 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 72 = 0
common difference is 2, 11-9=2, 9-7=2,
𝑥 2 + 9𝑥 − 8𝑥 − 72 = 0
7-5=2
𝑥 (𝑥 + 9) − 8(𝑥 + 9) = 0
e) -2, -1, 0, 1 consecutive intergers
common difference is 1, 1-0=1, 0- -1=1, (𝑥 + 9)(𝑥 − 8) = 0
-1- -2=1, 𝑥 +9=0 𝑥 −8=0
𝑥 = −9 𝑥 =8
Successive terms are obtained by adding
The numbers are either −9, −8 or 8, 9
the common difference to the preceeding
number. Example 38: The sum of three consecutive
integers is -27. find the numbers.
Example 36: The sum of three consecutive
Solution
odd numbers is 39, find the numbers.
First number = 𝑥 − 1
Solution
Second number = 𝑥
Let 𝑥 be the first number
Third number = 𝑥 + 1
Second number = 𝑥+ common difference=𝑥+
Sum = −27
2
third number = 𝑥 + 2+ common difference (𝑥 − 1) + 𝑥 + (𝑥 + 1) = −27
=𝑥 +2+2=𝑥 +4 3𝑥 = −27
The numbers are 𝑥, 𝑥 + 2 and 𝑥 + 4 27
𝑥 =−
Sum is 39 3
𝑥 = −9
𝑥 + (𝑥 + 2) + (𝑥 + 4) = 39

14
The integers are: (−9 − 1) = −10, −9 and 6. A fruit seller buys some oranges at the
(−9 + 1) = −8, ie. -10, -9, -8 rate of Gh5.00 per orange. She also
buys an equal number of bananas at
Example 39: The sum of five consecutive the rate of Gh2.00 per banana. She
odd numbers is 25. find the difference makes a profit of 20% on oranges and
between the smallest and the largest a profit of 15% on bananas. In the end,
numbers. she sold all the fruits. If she earned a
Solution profit of Gh390.00, find the number of
The numbers are: oranges.
(𝑥 − 4), (𝑥 − 2), 𝑥, (𝑥 + 2), and (𝑥 + 4)
Sum is 25 7. I have a total of Gh300 in notes of
denomination Gh1, Gh2 and Gh5.
(𝑥 − 4) + (𝑥 − 2) + 𝑥 + (𝑥 + 2) + (𝑥 + 4) = 25
The number of Gh2 notes is 3 times
5𝑥 = 25
the number of Gh5 notes. The total
25
𝑥= number of notes is 160. How many
5
notes of each denomination are with
𝑥 =5
me?
Smallest number is 5−4 = 1 Largest number
is 5 + 4 = 9 8. A boat goes downstream from one
Diference between smalles and largest point to another in 7 hours. It covers
1 − 9 = −8 the same distance upstream in 8 hours.
If the speed of stream is 2 km/h, find
1.9 Exercise 2 the speed of the boat in still water and
the distance between the points.
1. There are 650 students in a school. If
9. The sum of two numbers is 45, if their
the number of boys is 106 more than
ratio is 7:8, find the numbers.
the girlss, how many girls are there in
the school? 10. The sum of the digits of two-digit is 10,
if the new number formed by reversing
2. The angles of a triangle are in the ratio
the digits is greater than the original
2 : 3 : 4. Find the angles of the triangle.
number by 72, find the number.
3. The breadth of a rectangular garden is
2/3 of its length. If its perimeter is 40 m,
11. The numerator of a common fraction
is less than its denominator by 3, if the
find its dimensions.
numerator becomes three times and
4. The difference between two positive the denominator is increased by 20,
numbers is 40 and the ratio of these the new number becomes 1/8. Find the
integers is 1 : 3. Find the integers. original number.

5. The sum of a two-digit number and 12. Afua is four times as old as Kofi. After
the number obtained by reversing its five years, Afua will be three times as
digits is 121. Find the number if it’s old as she will be then. What are their
unit place digit is 5. present ages?

15
 13. The width of a rectangle is 4cm less For 𝑥 = 7, L.H.S. = 3(7) = 21 ≤ 20, which is
than its length, if the length and width false.
are each increased by 3cm, the area
of the new rectangle becomes 81𝑐𝑚 2 In the above situation, we find that the
more than the original rectangle. find values of 𝑥, which makes the above
the length and width of the original inequality a true statement, are 0,1,2,3,4,5,6.
rectangle. These values of 𝑥, which make above
inequality a true statement, are called
solutions of inequality and the set
{0,1,2,3,4,5,6} is called its solution set.
1.10 Inequalities
Thus, any solution of an inequality in one
Let us consider the statement: Kofi bought
variable is a value of the variable which
3 packets of sugar and paid not more than
makes it a true statement.
Gh20.00.
We have found the solutions of the above
The above is algebraically equivalent to
inequality by trial and error method
3𝑥 ≤ 20, where 𝑥 denotes the cost of a
which is not very efficient. Obviously, this
packet of sugar.
method is time consuming and sometimes
Obviously, 𝑥 cannot be a negative integer. not feasible. We must have some better
Left hand side (L.H.S.) of this inequality or systematic techniques for solving
is 3𝑥 and right hand side (RHS) is 20. inequalities. Before that we should go
Therefore, we have through some more properties of numerical
inequalities and follow them as rules while
For 𝑥 = 0, L.H.S. = 3(0) = 0 ≤ 20 (R.H.S.), solving the inequalities.
which is true.
You will recall that while solving linear
For 𝑥 = 1, L.H.S. = 3(1) = 3 ≤ 20 (R.H.S.), equations, we followed the following rules:
which is true. Equal numbers may be added to (or
subtracted from) both sides of an equation.
For 𝑥 = 2, L.H.S. = 3(2) = 6 ≤ 20, which is
Both sides of an equation may be multiplied
true.
(or divided) by the same non-zero number.
For 𝑥 = 3, L.H.S. = 3(3) = 9 ≤ 20, which is
In the case of solving inequalities, we again
true.
follow the same rules. Except whenever
For 𝑥 = 4, L.H.S. = 3(4) = 12 ≤ 20, which is we Divide or Multiply by a negative
true. number. The sign of inequality is
reversed (i.e., < becomes >0, ≤’ becomes ≥’
For 𝑥 = 5, L.H.S. = 3(5) = 15 ≤ 20, which is and so on). It is evident from the facts that
true. 3 > 2 while −3 < −2,
−8 < −7 while (−8)(−2) > (−7)(−2), i.e.,
For 𝑥 = 6, L.H.S. = 3(6) = 18 ≤ 20, which is
16 > 14.
true.

16
 15 21
15 < 21 while −3 > −3 , i.e. −5 > −7. 5𝑥 < 3𝑥 + 4
5𝑥 − 3𝑥 < 3𝑥 + 4 − 3𝑥
Thus, we state the following rules for solving
an inequality: 2𝑥 < 4
𝑥<2
Equal numbers may be added to (or
(i) When 𝑥 is an integer, the solutions of the
subtracted from) both sides of an inequality
given inequality are
without affecting the sign of inequality.
. . . − 4, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1
Both sides of an inequality can be multiplied (ii) When 𝑥 is a real number, the solutions
(or divided) by the same positive number. of the inequality are given by 𝑥 < 2, i.e.,
But when both sides are multiplied or all real numbers 𝑥 which are less than 2.
divided by a negative number, then the sign Therefore, the solution set of the inequality
of inequality is reversed. is {𝑥 : 𝑥 < 2} including all rational and
irrational numbers less than two.
Now, let us consider some examples.
We have considered solutions of
Example 40: Solve 3𝑥 < 20 when
inequalities in the set of natural numbers,
(i) 𝑥 is a natural number, We are given 3𝑥 < set of integers and in the set of real numbers.
20 Henceforth, unless stated otherwise, we
shall solve the inequalities in this Chapter
(ii) 𝑥 is an integer. in the set of real numbers.
3𝑥 20
or < , i.e., 𝑥 < 20/3. Example 42: Solve 4𝑥 + 3 < 6𝑥 + 7.
3 3
Solution
(i) When 𝑥 is a natural number, in this
4𝑥 + 3 < 6𝑥 + 7
case the following values of 𝑥 make the
statement true. 4𝑥 − 6𝑥 < 6𝑥 + 4 − 6𝑥
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. −2𝑥 < 4
The solution set of the inequality is 𝑥 > −2
{1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}. i.e., all the real numbers which are greater
than −2, are the solutions of the given
(ii) When 𝑥 is an integer, the solutions of the
inequality. Hence, the solution set is {𝑥; 𝑥 >
given inequality are
−2} .
. . . , −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
5 − 2𝑥 𝑥
The solution set of the inequality is Example 43: Solve ≤ − 5.
3 6
{. . . , −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} Solution
5 − 2𝑥 𝑥
≤ −5
Example 41: Solve 5𝑥 − 3 < 3𝑥 + 1 when 3 6
(i) 𝑥 is an integer, (ii) 𝑥 is a real number. 2(5 − 2𝑥) ≤ 𝑥 − 30
We have, 5𝑥 − 3 < 3𝑥 + 1 10 − 4𝑥 ≤ 𝑥 − 30
5𝑥 − 3 + 3 < 3𝑥 + 1 + 3
−5𝑥 ≤ −40

17
 𝑥≥8 the annual examination. Then
62 + 48 + 𝑥
Thus, all real numbers 𝑥 which are greater ≥ 60
3
than or equal to 8 are the solutions of the
110 + 𝑥 ≥ 180
given inequality, i.e., {𝑥 : 𝑥 ≥ 8}.
𝑥 ≥ 70
Example 44: Solve 7𝑥 +3 < 5𝑥 +9. Illustrate Thus, the student must obtain a minimum
the solution on number line. of 70 marks to get an average of at least 60
7𝑥 + 3 < 5𝑥 + 9 marks.
2𝑥 < 6 Example 47: Find all pairs of consecutive
𝑥<3 odd natural numbers, both of which are
The graphical representation of the solution larger than 10, such that their sum is less
is given below: than 40.
Solution
0 1 2 3 4
Let 𝑥 be the smaller of the two consecutive
3𝑥 − 4 𝑥 +1 odd natural number, so that the other one is
Example 45: Solve ≥ − 1,
2 4 𝑥 + 2. Then, we should have,
graph the solution on a number line.
Solution 𝑥 > 10 . . . (1)
3𝑥 − 4 𝑥 + 1 and
≥ −1
2 4
3𝑥 − 4 𝑥 − 3 𝑥 + (𝑥 + 2) < 40 . . . (2)
≥
2 4 Solving (2), we get
2(3𝑥 − 4) ≥ (𝑥 − 3) 2𝑥 + 2 < 40
6𝑥 − 8 ≥ 𝑥 − 3 2𝑥 < 38
6𝑥 − 𝑥 ≥ −3 + 8 𝑥 < 19 . . . (3)
5𝑥 ≥ 5 From (1) and (3), we get
𝑥≥1 10 < 𝑥 < 19
The graphical representation of solutions is Since 𝑥 is an odd number, 𝑥 can take the
given below: values 11, 13, 15, and 17. So, the required
0 1 2 3 4 possible pairs will be
(11, 13), (13, 15), (15, 17), (17, 19)
Example 46: The marks obtained by a
student of SHS form 2 in end of first and Example 48 Determine the solution set of
second terminal examinations are 62 and 6𝑥 11
5 − (3𝑥 − 1) > 5
48, respectively. Find the minimum marks Solution
he should get in the annual examination to Expand the parenthesis, using the
have an average of at least 60 marks. Distributive property
Solution 6𝑥 11
− 3𝑥 + 1 >
Let 𝑥 be the marks obtained by student in 5 5

18
Multiply each term by the LCM −2𝑥 − 3𝑥 < −6 − 22
6𝑥 11
5( − 3𝑥 + 1) > 5( ) −5𝑥 < −28
5 5
−28
6𝑥 − 15𝑥 + 5 > 11 𝑥>
−5
Group like terms 3
𝑥>5
−9𝑥 + 5 > 11 5
Subtract 5 from both sides Example 51 Solve for 𝑦 in
3 𝑦 1 +𝑦
−9𝑥 + 5 − 5 > 11 − 5 (2𝑦 − 1) − ≥ −
4 2 2
Solution
−9𝑥 > 6 3 3 𝑦 1 +𝑦
(2𝑦) − (1) − ≤ −
Divide each term by -9 and change the > to 4 4 2 2
< 3 3 𝑦 1 +𝑦
𝑦− − ≥−
6 2 4 2 2
𝑥<− 3 3 1 +𝑦

9 𝑦
4( 𝑦) − 4( ) − 4( ) ≥ −4
2 2 4 2 2
𝑥<−
3 2(3𝑦) − 3 − 2(𝑦) ≥ −2(1 + 𝑦)
Solution set is {𝑥 : 𝑥 < − 23 }
6𝑦 − 3 − 2𝑦 ≥ −2 − 2𝑦
Example 49 Solve for 𝑥 in 4𝑦 − 3 ≥ −2 − 2𝑦
2 2 7
3 𝑥 − 5 (𝑥 − 4) ≤ 3𝑥 − 4 4𝑦 + 2𝑦 ≥ −2 + 3
Solution 6𝑦 ≥ 1
2 2 8 7
𝑥 − 𝑥 + ≤ 3𝑥 − 1
3 5 5 4 𝑦≥
2 2 8 7 6
60( 𝑥) − 60( 𝑥) + 60( ) ≤ 60(3𝑥) − 60( ) Example 52 Illustrate the solution set of
3 5 5 4 3 6𝑥 − 1
20(2𝑥) − 12(2𝑥) + 12(8) ≤ 180𝑥 − 15(7) 2𝑥 + (2𝑥 − 1) ≤ on a number line.
4 3
40𝑥 − 24𝑥 + 96 ≤ 180𝑥 − 105 Solution
3 6𝑥 − 1
40𝑥 − 24𝑥 − 180𝑥 ≤ −105 − 96 2𝑥 + (2𝑥 − 1) ≤
4 3
3 3 6𝑥 1
−164𝑥 ≤ −201 2𝑥 + (2𝑥) − (1) ≤ −
4 4 3 3
−201 3 3 1
𝑥≥ 2𝑥 + 𝑥 − ≤ 2𝑥 −
−164 2 4 3
201 3 1 3
𝑥≥ 2𝑥 + 𝑥 − 2𝑥 ≤ − +
164 2 3 4
3 −4 + 9
Example 50: 23 + 5−𝑥
4
< 𝑥−2 𝑥≤
5−𝑥 2 12
Solution 3 5
𝑥≤
Multiply both sides by the Lcm = 3(5 – x) 2 12

2 4
 
𝑥 −2
 3 6
3(5 − 𝑥) + < 3(5 − 𝑥) 12( 𝑥) ≤ 12( )
3 5−𝑥 5−𝑥 2 12
6(3𝑥) ≤ 6
(5 − 𝑥)2 + 3(4) < 3(𝑥 − 2)
6(3𝑥) 6
10 − 2𝑥 + 12 < 3𝑥 − 6 6
≤
6
−2𝑥 + 22 < 3𝑥 − 6 3𝑥 ≤ 1

19
 1 1<𝑥 ≤3
𝑥≤
3
Solution set is {𝑥 : 𝑥 ≤ 13 } Truth set is 1 < 𝑥 ≤ 3

−2 −1 1 2
-1 3 3 0 3 3 1 1 2 3

1.10.1 Compound Inequalities Example 54: Solve and graph the solution
set of 8 < 8𝑥 + 10 < 16 on a number line.
These are two or more inequalities Solution
combined together using two of the 8 < 8𝑥 + 10 < 16
inequality signs.
8 − 10 < 8𝑥 + 10 − 10 < 16 − 10
Threre are two cases: −2 < 8𝑥 < 6
2 8𝑥 6
− <
Case 1: Where the variable appears only at
<
8 8 8
the middle. 1 3
− <𝑥 <
Examples 5 < 3𝑥 + 2 ≤ 11,  41 4
Solution set is 𝑥 : 4 < 𝑥 < 34
8 < 8𝑥 − 10 < 16, etc. The
solution is obtained by solving
1 2 3
the inequality as solving simple 0 4 4 4 1
inequalities as above.
Case 2: Where the variable appears at two Example 55: Solve and illustrate the
or three sides of the inequality. solution set on a number line;
Examples 𝑥 −3 < 4+2𝑥 ≤ −(𝑥 +11), −(𝑥 + 7) < 𝑥 + 3 < 7
7 < 3 + 2𝑥 < 5 + 𝑥, etc. Solution
−(𝑥 + 7) < 𝑥 + 3
Generally, in both cases, the inequality is
−𝑥 − 7 < 𝑥 + 3
solved by separating them into two simple
inequations. For instance, to solve 𝑥 − 3 < −7 < 𝑥 + 𝑥 + 3
4 + 2𝑥 ≤ −(𝑥 + 11), separate into simple −7 − 3 < 2𝑥
inequalities as follows: 𝑥 − 3 < 4 + 2𝑥, and −10 < 2𝑥
4 + 2𝑥 ≤ −(𝑥 + 11), then solve the resulting 10 2
− <
simple inequalities and combine the final 2 2
answers. −5 < 𝑥
Then,
Example 53: Illustrate the truth set of
𝑥 +3 < 7
5 < 3𝑥 + 2 ≤ 11 on a number line.
Solution 𝑥 < 7−3
5 < 3𝑥 + 2 ≤ 11 𝑥<4
5 − 2 < 3𝑥 + 2 − 2 ≤ 11 − 2 Solution set = {𝑥 : −5 < 𝑥 < 4}
3 < 3𝑥 ≤ 9
−6 −4 −2 0 2 4
3 3𝑥 9
< ≤
3 3 3
20
Example 56 Determine the range of values 𝑥 > − 12 and 𝑥 < 2 151

of 𝑥 for which We put 𝑥 in middle of the symbols > and

1 1 1 1
3 (𝑥 + 2) < 2𝑥 + 1 2 < 6 6 − 2 (𝑥 − 1) < such that it will maintain its truth value
Solution − 12 < 𝑥 is the same as 𝑥 > − 21 , therefore
The symbol < separates the inequality into instead of 𝑥 > − 12 , we use − 12 < 𝑥 to get
three sides, − 12 < 𝑥 < 2 15
1
1 1 1 1
3 (𝑥 + 2),2𝑥 + 1 2 and 6 6 − 2 (𝑥 − 1) The solution is {𝑥 : − 21 < 𝑥 < 2 151
}
When this happens, we separate the
inequality into two simple inequalities. We -1/2 31/15

take the first two expressions separated by -1 0 1 2

‘<’ 31 (𝑥 + 2) and 2𝑥 + 1 12 and solve for 𝑥
1 1 Example 57 Find the truth set of
(𝑥 + 2) < 2𝑥 + 1
3 2 𝑥 − 12 ≤ 13 (5𝑥 − 2) ≤ 43 + 𝑥
1 2 3
𝑥 + < 2𝑥 + Solution Take the first part and solve for 𝑥
3 3 2
1 3 2 1 1
𝑥 − 2𝑥 < − 𝑥 − ≤ (5𝑥 − 2)
3 2 3 2 3
1 3 2 1 5𝑥 2
6( 𝑥) − 6(2𝑥) < 6( ) − 6( ) 𝑥− ≤ −
3 2 3 2 3 3
1 5𝑥 2
2𝑥 − 12𝑥 < 9 − 4 6𝑥 − 6( ) ≤ 6( ) − 6( )
2 3 3
−10𝑥 < 5 6𝑥 − 3 ≤ 2(5𝑥) − 2(2)
5
𝑥> 6𝑥 − 3 ≤ 10𝑥 − 4
−10
1 6𝑥 − 10𝑥 ≤ −4 + 3
𝑥>−
2 −4𝑥 ≤ −1
Next we take the last two expressions
−1
separated by ‘<’, 2𝑥 + 1 12 and 6 16 − 21 (𝑥 − 1) 𝑥≥
−4
and solve for 𝑥 1
1 1 1 𝑥≥
2𝑥 + 1 < 6 − (𝑥 − 1) 4
2 6 2 Take the second part and solve
3 37 1 1 1 3
2𝑥 + < − 𝑥+ (5𝑥 − 2) ≤ + 𝑥
2 6 2 2 3 4
1 37 1 3 5𝑥 2 1
2𝑥 + 𝑥 < + − − ≤ +𝑥
2 6 2 2 3 3 4
1 37 1 3 5𝑥 2 3
6(2𝑥) + 6( 𝑥) < 6( ) + 6( ) − 6( ) 12( ) − 12( ) ≤ 12( ) + 12(𝑥)
2 6 2 2 3 3 4
12𝑥 + 3𝑥 < 37 + 3 − 9 4(5𝑥) − 6(2) ≤ 3(3) + 12𝑥
15𝑥 < 31 20𝑥 − 12 ≤ 9 + 12𝑥
31
𝑥< 20𝑥 − 12𝑥 ≤ 9 + 12
15
31 8𝑥 ≤ 21
𝑥<
15 21
1 𝑥≤
𝑥<2 8
15 5
Now we combine the two solutions, 𝑥≤2
8

21
The truth set is {𝑥 : 14 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 2 85 }
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Example 58 Illustrate the solution set of
2𝑥−3 3𝑥−2
4𝑥−1 ≤ 2𝑥+1 ≤ 6𝑥−2 on the number line.
𝑥+1
The inequality has no solution, since there
Solution
2𝑥 − 3 𝑥 +1 is no number greater than 7 and also less
≤ than 5.
4𝑥 − 1 2𝑥 + 1
(2𝑥 − 3)(2𝑥 + 1) ≤ (𝑥 + 1)(4𝑥 − 1)
2𝑥 (2𝑥 + 1) − 3(2𝑥 + 1) ≤ 𝑥 (4𝑥 − 1) + (4𝑥 − 1) 1.11 Exercise 3
4𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 6𝑥 − 3 ≤ 4𝑥 2 − 𝑥 + 4𝑥 − 1 1. Solve 24𝑥 < 100, when
2 2
4𝑥 − 4𝑥 − 3 ≤ 4𝑥 + 3𝑥 − 1
(i) 𝑥 is a natural number.
4𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 − 3𝑥 ≤ −1 + 3
(ii) 𝑥 is an integer.
−7𝑥 ≤ 2
2 2. 2. Solve - 12𝑥 > 30, when
𝑥≥−
7 (i) 𝑥 is a natural number.
𝑥 +1 3𝑥 − 2
≤ (ii) 𝑥 is an integer.
2𝑥 + 1 6𝑥 − 2
(𝑥 + 1)(6𝑥 − 2) ≤ (2𝑥 + 1)(3𝑥 − 2) 3. Solve 5𝑥 − 3 < 7, when
𝑥 (6𝑥 − 2) + (6𝑥 − 2) ≤ 2𝑥 (3𝑥 − 2) + (3𝑥 − 2) (i) 𝑥 is an integer.
2 2
6𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 6𝑥 − 2 ≤ 6𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 3𝑥 − 2
(ii) 𝑥 is a real number.
2 2
6𝑥 + 4𝑥 − 2 ≤ 6𝑥 − 𝑥 − 2
4. Solve 3𝑥 + 8 > 2, when
6𝑥 − 6𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 𝑥 ≤ −2 + 2
2
(i) 𝑥 is an integer.
5𝑥 ≤ 0
(ii) 𝑥 is a real number.
𝑥 ≤ 0/5
𝑥≤0 Solve the inequalities in Exercises 5 to 16
for real 𝑥.
Solution set is {𝑥 : − 27 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 0}
−6 −5 −4 −3 −2 −1
5. 4𝑥 + 3 < 5𝑥 + 7
1 7 7 7 7 7 7 0
6. 3𝑥 − 7 > 5𝑥 − 1
Example 59: Solve and illustrate the 7. 3(𝑥 − 1) ≤ 2(𝑥 − 3)
solution on a number line: 8. 3(2 − 𝑥) ≥ 2(1 − 𝑥)
15 ≤ 3(𝑥 − 2) < 9. 𝑥 𝑥
9. 𝑥 + + < 11
15 ≤ 3(𝑥 − 2) < 9 2 3
𝑥 𝑥
15 ≤ 3𝑥 − 6 < 9 10. > + 1
3 2
15 + 6 ≤ 3𝑥 − 6 + 6 < 9 + 6 3(𝑥 − 2) 5(2 − 𝑥)
11. ≤
21 ≤ 3𝑥 < 15 5 3
21 3𝑥 15 1 3𝑥 1
 
≤ < 12. + 4 ≥ (𝑥 − 6)
3 3 3 2 5 3
7≤𝑥 <5 13. 2(2𝑥 + 3) − 10 < 6(𝑥 − 2)
14. 37 − (3𝑥 + 5) ≥ 9𝑥 − 8(𝑥 − 3)

22
 𝑥 5𝑥 − 2 7𝑥 − 3 30. 2𝑥 + 3 < 𝑥−2
≤ 3 34
15. < − 3
4 3 5
2𝑥 − 1 3𝑥 − 2 2 − 𝑥
16. ≥ − 1.12 Exercise 4
3 4 5

Solve the inequalities in Exercises 17 to 1. may 2011 Find the value of y if 13𝑦 =
20 and show the graph of the solution in 1872 − 1742
each case on number line 2. An irregular polygon has its external
angles as 28°, 40°, 120°, 142° and 𝑥. Find
17. 3𝑥 − 2 < 2𝑥 + 1
the value of 𝑥.
18. 5𝑥 − 3 ≥ 3𝑥 − 5 3. 3𝑥 − 4 = 2(𝑦 − 2). Find 𝑥/𝑦 , where 𝑦 ≠ 0.
19. 3(1 − 𝑥) < 2(𝑥 + 4) 4. Solve the inequality 3𝑥 − 5(3 − 𝑥) < 1.
𝑥 (5𝑥 − 2) (7𝑥 − 3) 5. Which one of the following represents
20. ≥ − the solution of the inequality? 4 − 𝑥 <
2 3 5
21. Kofi obtained 70 and 75 marks in first two 2𝑥 + 5𝑥 on the number line?
unit test. Find the minimum marks he 6. May 2012
should get in the third test to have an Find the truth set of 1/2𝑥 − 1/3(𝑥 +
average of at least 60 marks. 4) > 2𝑥 + 3/4 where 𝑥 is a real number.
Illustrate your answer on a number line.
22. To receive Grade ‘A’ in a course, one
7. Find the value of 𝑥 for which 1/4𝑥 −
must obtain an average of 90 marks or
1/3(𝑥 − 1) ≤ 7/12
more in five examinations (each of 100
8. Solve for x from the equation 𝑥/5 + 3 =
marks). If Kofi’s marks in first four
𝑥/3 + 5.
examinations are 87, 92, 94 and 95, find
9. May 2013
minimum marks that Kofi must obtain in
Given that the ratio of two spherical
fifth examination to get grade ‘A’ in the
objects A and B is 2:5. Find the diameter
course.
of B if the radius of A is found to be 12cm.
23. Find all pairs of consecutive odd positive 10. Solve the inequality 1/4(𝑥 +2)−2(𝑥 −5) >
integers both of which are smaller than 3 41
10 such that their sum is more than 11. 11. May 2014
24. Find all pairs of consecutive even positive What value of x makes the following
integers, both of which are larger than 5 statement true? 13 (5𝑥 + 3) − 61 (𝑥 + 6) = 6
such that their sum is less than 23. 12. If (5 + 𝑛) − (4 − 𝑛) = 5, find 𝑛
From 25 to 30, Solve and illustrate the 13. May 2015
solution on a real number line. Find the truth set of the inequality 6 −
8𝑘 > 3𝑘 − 16
25. 3 < 2𝑥 + 3 ≤ 7
14. May 2016
26. −3 ≤ 2𝑥 + 7 < 11 Solve for 𝑥 in the inequality 1/2(𝑥 + 1) ≥
27. 4 < 3𝑥 + 4 ≤ 2𝑥 + 7 1/2(2𝑥 + 2) and illustrate your answer on
the number line.
28. 3𝑥 − 9 ≤ 5𝑥 − 5 ≤ 𝑥 + 3
15. The distance round a rectangular café is
29. 11 ≤ 7𝑥 − 3 ≤ 3 35m. The ratio of the length of the café to

23
 its width is 3:2. Calculate the dimensions 32. Represent the inequality 3 ≤ 𝑥 < 5 on a
of the cafe. number line.
16. The sum of 6 and 1/3 of 𝑥 is one more 33. In a given regular polygon, the ratio of
than twice 𝑥. Find the value of 𝑥. the exterior angle to the interior angle is
17. Which of the following represents the 1:3. How many sides has the polygon?
solution to the inequality 𝑥/3 − ((𝑥 − 34. Nov 2012
3)/2) ≥ 1 Find the value of x such that 2𝑥 − 5 = 1
18. Solve the inequality 4/𝑥 − 10 ≥ −6 35. Which of the following illustrate the
19. May 2017 solution set of 6𝑥 − 8 < 𝑥 + 2?
A regular polygon of 𝑛 size is such that 36. The length of a rectangular field is 15m
each interior angle is 120° greater than longer than the width. If the perimeter is
the exterior angle. find the value of 𝑛. 350m, find the length of the field.
20. Which of the following number lines 37. If integer 𝑥 is divided by 7, the quotient
represents the solution to the inequality is 11 with remainder 1. Find the value of
6𝑥 + 1 ≥ 8𝑥 − 7? 𝑥.
21. The inequality for distance d which is 38. Find the range of values of x that satisfies
more than 18m but not more than 23m 𝑥 + 1 > 0 and 𝑥 − 3 < 1.
is: 39. Solve the equation 3/8(𝑦 − 2) = 1/4(2𝑦 −
22. If 3𝑥/2 + 15/2 < 0, solve for 𝑥. 3)
23. The interior angle of a hexagon are 40. Solve the inequality 2/𝑡 − 5 ≥ −3
2𝑟, 3𝑟, 2𝑟, 5𝑟, 𝑟 and 2𝑟 . find the value of 𝑟 . 41. Find the value of x that makes the
24. May 2018 following statement 1/3(5𝑥 +3) −1/6(𝑥 +
Find 𝑄 if 3𝑄 + 132 = 162 6) = 6
25. If y=3 satisfies the equation 1.3 − 𝑘𝑦 = 42. Solve for the value of x in the equation
0.2𝑦 +0.3, find the value of k leaving your 3/2𝑥 − 9/2 = 11/2 + 3/4𝑥
answer to 2 decimal places 43. Two positive numbers are in the ratio
26. On which of the given number lines is the 3:4. The sum of 3 times the first and 2
solution set {(𝑥 : 𝑥 ≤ 4) ∩ (𝑥 : 𝑥 > −1} times the second is 68. Find the smaller
27. Find the solution set of 6𝑥 + 2 > 2𝑥/3 + 6 number.
where x is an integer, 44. If 5𝑝 −7𝑞 = −5(𝑝 +𝑞), find 𝑞 , where 𝑞 ≠ 0
𝑝

28. The sum of two numbers is 20. One of 45. For what value of 𝑘 is 0.8𝑘 − 2.1 = 0.5𝑘?
the numbers is 23 times the other. Find 46. Find the truth set of 5𝑥 − 8 ≤ 2𝑥 + 4
the smaller number. 47. The sum of four consecutive odd
29. The area of a rectangular plot of length numbers is 112.Find the least of the four
is 36m2. If the length is 6m more than numbers.
the width, find the width to the nearest 48. Find the value of (𝑥/5) −1/3 = 2
whole number. 49. Find the solution set of the following
30. May 2019 inequality: −4 < 2𝑥 −1/5−(1−3/4𝑥) ≤ 1.
Find the value of 𝑥 if 𝑥/5 + 3 = 𝑥/3 + 5 Represent the solution on a number line.
31. If (3𝑛 − 1) ( 1/3) = 2 , find 𝑛. 50. Solve the inequality: 7𝑥 − (10𝑥 + 3) ≥ −9

24
51. The sum of two numbers is 15. One of 57. The admission fee to a variety show
the numbers is 23 times the other. Find was GH100.00 for adults and GH50.00
the bigger number. for children. If 800 people attended
1
52. If (3𝑚 − 2) 2 = 2. Find 𝑚. the Show and the amount realized was
53. A man is twice as old as his son. Five GH70,000.00, find the number of adults
years ago, the ratio of their ages was 9:4. and the number of children who attended
Find the son’s present age. the Show.
54. The angles of a five-sided polygon are 58. The tens digit of a two-digit number
𝑥, 𝑥 + 20° , 2𝑥, 𝑥 + 10° and 𝑥 + 30°. Find the is four less than the unit digit. If the
value of 𝑥. product of the tens and unit digit is 21,
55. Which of the following is illustrated by find the number.
the number line? −2 < 𝑥 ≤ 3 59. The angles of a regular pentagon are
56. Find the truth set of the linear inequality 𝑥, 2𝑥, 𝑥 + 60°, 𝑥 + 10° and 𝑥 − 10°. Find
[(3𝑥 + 1)/4 − (3 + 4𝑥)/3 ≤ 1] Represent the value of 𝑥.
your answer on the number line.

25