MIZAN TEPI UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE

DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Pre-University Remedial Program for the 2014 EC ESSLCE
Examines Mathematics Module for Natural Science stream
Chapter 1: Solving Equations and Inequalities (12 hrs)

1.1 Equations involving exponents and radicals

Equations are equality of expressions. there are different types of equations that depend on
the variable(s) considered. when the variable in use has an exponent other than 1, it is said
to be an equation involving exponents.

Example 1 solves each of the following equations.

1
1
�) 4�−1 = 322�+3 b) 812�−1 = ( 3 )�+2 c) 25� = 5� + 6

Solution a) Let 4�−1 = 322�+3 ⟹ (22 )�−1 = (25 )2�+3

⟹ 22�−2 = 210�+15
⟹ 2� − 2 = 10� + 15
⟹ 2� − 10� = 15 + 2
⟹− 8� = 17
−17
⟹�=
8

−17
Hence the value of x is
8

1 1
1
b) Let 812�−1 = ( 3 )�+2 ⟹ (34 )2�−1 = (3−1 )�+2

⟹ 32�−4 = 3−�−2
⟹ 2� − 4 =− � − 2
⟹ 2� + � =− 2 + 4
⟹ 3� = 2
2
⟹�=
3

2
Hence the value of x is
3

c) Let 25� = 5� + 6 ⟹ 25� = 5� + 6

⟹ (52 )� = 5� + 6

⟹ (5� )2 = 5� + 6

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
� 2
Now, let � = 5 , then � = � + 6

⟹ �2 − � − 6 = 0 ⟹ � − 3 � + 2 = 0 ⟹ � = 3 �� � =− 2

⟹ � = 5� ⟹ 5� = 3 or 5� =− 2 but 5� =− 2 can’t be true.

��3
Thus, ��5� = ��3 ⟹ ���5 = ��3 ⟹ � = ��5

ln3
Hence � = ln5.

The following rules are very useful in solving such equations.

Rule. ��� � > 0, �� = �� if and only if � = �

Example 2. Solve 22�+1 = 3x −2

Solution Let 32�+1 = 3x −2 by using the rule, since 3 > 0, 32�+1 = 3x −2 , if and only if the
exponents 2x + 1 = x – 2.

⟹ 2� − � =− 3 ⟹ � =− 3

Hence � =− 3

Example 3 Solve each of the following equations.

3
a) 8� = 22�+1 b) 3� = 32�+5 c) 32� − 10 3� + 9 = 0 d) 5�+2 = 5−�

Solution a) Let 8� = 22�+1 ⟹ 23 �

= 22�+1

⟹ 23� = 22�+1
⟹ 3� = 2� + 1
⟹ 3� − 2� = 1
⟹�=1
Hence � = 1

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

1
3
b) Let 3� = 32�+5 ⟹ 3� 3 = 32�+5
1
⟹ 33� = 32�+1
1
⟹ � = 2� + 5
3
1
⟹ � − 2� = 5
3
�−6�
⟹ =5
3
⟹ � − 6� = 15
⟹− 5� = 15
⟹ � =− 3
Hence � =− 3

c) Let 32� − 10 3� + 9 = 0 ⟹ (3� )2 − 10 3� + 9 = 0 which is a quadratic form.

Let � = 3� , then (3� )2 − 10 3� + 9 = 0 becomes �2 − 10� + 9 = 0

⟹ �−1 �−9 =0
⟹ � = 0 �� � = 9

⟹ � = 3� = 0 has no solution but � = 3� = 9 ⟹ 3� = 32 ⟹ � = 2.

Hence � = 2 �� �ℎ� ���� ��������.

d) Let 5�+2 = 5−�

⟹ 5�+2 = 5−�
1
⟹ 5�+2 = �
5
⟹ 5� . 5�+2 = 1
⟹ 52�+2 = 1
⟹ 52�+2 = 50
⟹ 2� + 2 = 0
⟹ 2� =− 2
⟹ � =− 1

Hence � =− 1

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Exercise 1.1
Solve each of the following equations 5.
1
( 27 )4−�− = 92�−1
1. 3� = 27 6. (3 x + 1) 3 = 64
2. 25�+3 = 128
1 7. (2x+3 )2 = (3 x − 1 )2
1 8. 163�+4 = 23� 64−4�+1
3. ( 4 )� = 16 3
1
9. 812�−1 = 3�
4. ( )5� = 32 �+8
10. 812�+1 = 92� 271−�
8
5
11. ( 7)� = 72�+3
12. For example, suppose a mall found that the following function could be used to
find the average amount a random person spent at the mall after a time of x hours is given by
� � = 42.2(1.56)� . Find the average amount spent by a person who is at the mall for 3
hours round to the nearest dollar.
13. Suppose a culture of bacteria begins with 1000 bacteria at time 0. The number
of bacteria is doubling every day. The function � � = 1000(2)� represents the number of
bacteria present in the culture after � days. Approximate the number present after the
following number of days.
a) 3days b) 11 days c) 30 days
14. The half-life of an isotope is the time it takes for one-half of the original
amount in the given sample to decay. Suppose the polonium isotope 210Po has a half-life of
approximately 140 days. If 20 grams is present initially, then this function will determine the
amount remaining after � days.
1 1
� � = 20( )140�
2
Find the number of grams present after (a) 100 days, (b) 300 days, and (c) 1000 days, round to
the nearest whole number.

1.2 System of Linear equations in two variables

Recall that, for real numbers � and �, any equation of the form �� + � = 0, where � ≠ 0 is
called a linear equation. The numbers � and � are called coefficients of the equation.

Example 1 solves each of the following linear equations.

a x–2=7 b x+7=3

c 2x = 4 d 2x – 5 = 7

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Solution a) Let � – 2 = 7 ⟹ � = 7 + 2 ⟹ � = 9
b) x + 7 = 3⟹ � = 3 − 7 ⟹ � =− 4
2� 4
c) 2� = 4 ⟹ = ⟹�=2
2 2
2� 12
d) 2� – 5 = 7 ⟹ 2� = 7 + 5 ⟹ 2� = 12 ⟹ = ⟹�=6
2 2
Observe that each equation has exactly one solution.

In general, any linear equation in one variable has one solution.

Definition 1.1 Any equation that can be reduced to the form �� + � = 0, where �, � ∈ ℝ
and � ≠ 0, is called a linear equation in one variable.

Example 2 solves each of the following equations.

a) 7� − 3 = 2 (3 � + 2) b) − 3( 2 � + 4 ) = 2 ( − 3 � − 6) c) 2 � + 4 = 2 ( � + 5)
Solution a) Let 7� − 3 = 2(3 � + 2) ⟹ 7x − 3 = 6x + 4 ⟹ 7� − 6� = 4 + 3 ⟹ � = 7
Let – 3 2 � + 4 = 2 − 3 � − 6 ⟹ −6� − 12 =− 6� − 12 ⟹ −6� + 6� = − 12 + 12 ⟹ 0 =
0
Hence the solution is all real numbers (has infinite solution)
c) 2 � + 4 = 2 ( � + 5) ⟹ 2� + 4 = 2� + 10 ⟹ 2� − 2� = 10 − 4 ⟹ 0 =
6 which is false
Hence the given linear equation has no solution.
Therefore a given linear equations can have one solution, infinite solutions or no solution.

Linear equations in two variables

We discussed how to solve equations with one variable that can be reduced to the form �� +
�=0
Note that, �� + � = 0 is a particular case of � = �� + � when y = 0. This means, for
different values of � there will be different equations with their own solutions.
An equation of the type �� + �� = �, where c, d and e are arbitrary constants and c ≠ 0,
d ≠ 0, is called a linear equation in two variables. An equation in two variables of the form �� +
�� = � can be reduced to the form � = �� + �.
Example 1
a) Give solutions to � = 2� + 1 where � assumes values 0, 1, 2 and 3.
. Solution
a) Let us consider y = 2x + 1.
−1
When � = 0, the equation becomes 2� + 1 = 0 and its solution is � = 2
.
When � = 1, the equation becomes 2� + 1 = 1 and its solution is � = 0.
1
When � = 2, the equation becomes 2� + 1 = 2 and its solution is 2.
When � = 3, the equation becomes 2� + 1 = 3 and its solution is � = 1.

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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Observe that for each value of �, there is one corresponding value of x. This relation is
represented by an ordered pair (�, �). The set of all those ordered pairs that satisfy the
equation � = 2� + 1 is the solution to the equation � = 2� + 1.
2.1. System of linear equations and their solutions
Definition 1.2 A set of two or more linear equations is called system of linear
equations. System of two linear equations in two variables are equations that can
� � + �1 � = �1
be represented as 1 , where �1 , �2 , �1 , �2 , �1 and �2 are the parameters of
�2 � + �2 � = �2
the system whose specific values characterize the system and �1 ≠ 0 �� �1 ≠ 0 �2 ≠ 0 �� �2 ≠
0.
Example 2 The following are examples of systems of linear equations in two variables.
2� + 3� = 1 3� − 2� = 2 �+�=3
a) b) c)
� − 2� = 3 9� − 6� = 5 2� + 2� = 6
Definition 1.3 A solution to a system of linear equations in two variables means the set of
ordered pairs (x, y) that satisfies both equations.

Example 3 Determine the solution of the following systems of linear equations.

2� + 3� = 8 3� − � = 5 3� + 4� = 31
a) b) c)
5� − 2� = 1 �+�=3 2� + 3� = 22

Solution a) (1, 2) is a solution because 2�1 + 3�2 = 2 + 6 = 8 and 5�1 − 2�2 = 5 − 4 = 1

b) (2, 1) is a solution because 3�2 − 1 = 6 − 1 = 5 and 2 + 1 = 3

c) (5, 4) is a solution because 3�5 + 4�4 = 15 + 16 = 31 and 2�5 + 3�4 =
10 + 12 = 22

Solution to a system of linear equations in two variables

You saw in Example 3 above that a solution to a system of linear equations is an ordered pair
that satisfies both equations in the system. We obtained it by listing some ordered pairs that
satisfy each of the component equations and selecting the common one. But it is not easy to list
such solutions. So we need to look for another approach to solving systems of linear equations.
These include the graphical method, substitution method and elimination method.

When we draw the lines of each of the component equations in a system of two linear equations,
we can observe three possibilities.
1 The two lines intersect at one point, in which case the system has only one solution.
2 The two lines are parallel and never intersect. In this case, we say the system does
not have any solution.

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
3 The two lines coincide (fit one over the other). In this case, there are infinitely many
solutions

Solving system of linear equations by a graphical method

In this method we need to draw the line of each component equation using the same coordinate
system. If the lines intersect, there is one solution, that is the points of their intersection. If the
lines are parallel, the system has no solution. If the lines coincide, then there are infinite
solutions to the system since every point (ordered pair) on the line satisfies both equations in the
system.

Example 4 Solve each of the following systems of linear equations.

2� − 2� = 4 � + 2� = 4 � + 3� = 5
a) b) c)
3� + 4� = 6 3� + 6� = 6 2� + 6� = 10

Solution a) First, draw the graphs of each equation as follows

2� − 2� = 4
3� + 4� 3
=6
2

1
x
-5 -4 - - - 1 2 3 4 5
-1
-2

-3

Figure 1.2

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
In the graph, observe that the two lines intersect at (2, 0). Thus, the system has one
solution which is (2, 0).

b) When we draw the line of each component equation, we see that the lines are parallel.
This means the lines do not intersect. Hence the system does not have a solution
y

5
� + 2� = 4 4
3

3� + 6� = 6 2
1
x
-5 -4 - - - 1 2 3 4 5
-1
-2
-3

-4
Figure 1.3
-5
c) When we draw the line of each component equation, we see that the lines coincide one
over the other, which shows that the system has infinite solutions. That is, all points
(ordered pairs) on the line are solutions of the system.

y
3

� + 3� = 5 2
2� + 6� = 10
1
x
-5 -4 - - - 1 2 3 4 5
-1
Figure 1.4 -2
-3
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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Solving systems of linear equations by the substitution method
To solve a system of two linear equations by the substitution method, follow the following steps
1. Take one of the linear equations from the system and write one of the variables in terms of the
other.
2. Substitute your result into the other equation and solve for the second variable.
3. Substitute this result into one of the equations and solve for the first variable.

Example 5 Solve the system of linear equations given by

2� − 3� = 5 2� − 4� = 5 2� − � = 1 4� + 3� = 8
a) b) c) d) 3
5� + 3� = 9 −6� + 12� =− 15 3� − 2� =− 4 −2� − � =− 6
2

2� − 3� = 5
Solution a)
5� + 3� = 9
2 5
Step 1 From 2� − 3� = 5, take −3� =− 2� + 5 ⟹ 3� = 2� − 5 ⟹ � = 3 � − 3

2 5
Hence � = 3 � − 3

2 5
Step 2 substitute � = 3 � − 3 in 5� + 3� = 9 and solve for x.

2 5
⟹ 5� + 3 �− =9
3 3
⟹ 5� + 2� − 5 = 9

⟹ 7� = 9 + 5

⟹ 7� = 14

⟹�=2

Step 3 substitute � = 2 in one of the two equations and solve for y.

⟹ 2�2 − 3� = 5

⟹ 4 − 3� = 5

⟹− 3� = 5 − 4

,
−1 −1
⟹− 3� = 1, ⟹ � = 3
Therefore the solution is (2, 3
)

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2� − 4� = 5
b)
−6� + 12� =− 15
1 5
Step 1 from 2� − 4� = 5, take − 4� =− 2� + 5 ⟹ � = 2 � − 4

1 5
Hence � = 2 � − 4

1 5
Step 2 substitute � = � = 2 � − 4 in −6� + 12� =− 15 and solve for x.

1 5
⟹− 6� + 12( � − ) =− 15
2 4

⟹− 6� + 6� − 15 =− 15

⟹ 0 = 0 which is always true?

1 5
Hence the given system has infinite solution which is given by { �, � : � = 2 � − 4 }

2� − � = 1
c)
3� − 2� =− 4

Step 1 From 2� − � = 1, take −� =− 2� + 1 ⟹ � = 2� − 1

Hence � = 2� − 1

Step 2 substitute � = 2� − 1 in 3� − 2� =− 4 and solve for x.

⟹ 3� − 2(2� − 1 ) =− 4

⟹ 3� − 4� + 2 =− 4

⟹− � =− 6

⟹�=6

Step 3 substitute � = 6 in one of the two equations and solve for y.

⟹ 3�(6) − 2� =− 4

⟹ 18 − 2� =− 4

⟹− 2� =− 4 − 18

⟹− 2� =− 22

⟹ � = 11

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Therefore the solution is (6, 11)

4� + 3� = 8
d) 3
−2� − � =− 6
2

−4� 8
Step 1 From 4� + 3� = 8, take 3� =− 4� + 8 ⟹ � = 3
+
3

−4� 8
Hence � = 3
+
3

−4� 8 3
Step 2 substitute � = 3
+ 3 in −2� − 2 � =− 6 and solve for x.

3 −4� 8
⟹− 2� − ( + ) =− 6
2 3 3
⟹− 2� + 2� − 4 =− 6

⟹− 4 =− 6 which is always false.

Therefore, the given system of linear equation has no solution.

Solving systems of linear equations by the elimination method

To solve a system of two linear equations by the elimination method, follow the following
steps.

1. Select one of the variables and make the coefficients of the selected variable equal
but opposite in sign in the two equations.
2. Add the two equations to eliminate the selected variable and solve for the resulting
variable.
3. Substitute this result again into one of the equations and solve for the remaining variable.
Example 6 Solve the following system of linear equations.

2� − � = 5 7� + 5� = 11 2� − 4� = 8 2� − 7� = 9
a) b) c) d)
2� + 3� = 9 −3� + 3� =− 3 � − 2� = 4 −6� + 21� = 6

2� − � = 5
Solution a)
2� + 3� = 9

Step 1 Select one of the variables, say y and make the coefficients of y opposite to one another
by multiplying the first equation by 3. Then

2� − � = 5 6� − 3� = 15
is equivalent to
2� + 3� = 9 2� + 3� = 9

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Step 2 Add the two equations in the system:

6� − 3� = 15
gives 6� − 3� + 2� + 3� = 15 + 9 which becomes 8� = 24 ⟹ � = 3.
2� + 3� = 9

Therefore, � = 3

Step 3 Substitute � = 3 into one of the original equations and solve for y.
Choosing 2�–� = 5 and replacing � = 3, to get 2 (3) – � = 5 from which –� = 5 – 6
⟹ –� = –1 which is the same as � = 1.
Therefore the solution is (3, 1).

7� + 5� = 11
b)
−3� + 3� =− 3

Multiply the first equation by 3 and the second equation by 7 to make the coefficients of the
21� + 15� = 33
variable x equal and opposite , we get and adding the two equations, we
−21� + 21� =− 21
12 1
get 21� + 15� +− 21� + 21� = 33 − 21 ⟹ 36� = 12 ⟹ � = 36 = 3

1
Substituting � = 3 in one of the equations, say 7x + 5y = 11, we get

1 5 28 4
7� + 5 3
= 11 ⟹ 7� + 3 = 11 ⟹ 21� + 5 = 33 ⟹ 21� = 28 ⟹ � = 21 = 3.

4 1
Therefore the solution is ( 3 , 3
).

2� − 4� = 8
c) � − 2� = 4

2� − 4� = 8
Multiplying the second equation by -2, we get
−2� + 4� =− 8

Adding the two equations, we get 2� − 4� − 2� + 4� = 8 − 8

⟹ 0 = 0 which is always true.

1
Hence the system has infinite solution which is given by { �, � : � = 2 � − 2}.

2� − 7� = 9
d)
−6� + 21� = 6

6� − 21� = 27
Multiplying the first equation by 3, we get
−6� + 21� = 6

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Adding the two equations, we get 6� − 21� − 6� + 21� = 27 + 6

⟹ 0 = 33 which is false

Hence the given system has no solution.

Solutions of a system of linear equations in two variables and quotients of

coefficients
Consider the following examples

3� + � = 2
a)
� − 2� = 3
3 1 2
The quotients of the coefficients are 1 ≠ −2 ≠ 3

Let us see the relation between the quotients of the coefficient and the solution of the given
system of linear equations.

Multiplying the second equation by -3 making the coefficient of x opposite, we obtain

3� + � = 2
−3� + 6� =− 9

Adding the two equations to get 3� + � − 3� + 6� = 2 − 9 ⟹ 7� =− 7 ⟹ � =− 1

Substituting � =− 1 in one of the two equations, say � − 2 −1 = 3 ⟹ � + 2 = 3 ⟹ � = 1

Hence the solution is (1, -1)

� − 2� = 3
b)
2� − 4� = 5
1 2 3
The quotients of the coefficients are 2 = 4 ≠ 5

Let us see the relation between the quotients of the coefficient and the solution of the given
system of linear equations.

Multiplying the first equation by -2 making the coefficient of x opposite, we get

−2� + 4� =− 6
2� − 4� = 5

Adding the two equations to get −2� + 4� + 2� − 4� =− 6 + 5 ⟹ 0 =− 1 which is false.

Hence the given system of linear equation has no solution.

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2� + 3� = 1
c)
4� + 6� = 2
1 3 1
The quotients of the coefficients are 2 = 6 = 2

−4� − 6� =− 2
Multiplying the first equation by -2, we get
4� + 6� = 2

Adding the two equations to get −4� − 6� − 4� + 6� =− 2 + 2 ⟹ 0 = 0 which is true.

−2
Hence the given system of linear equation has infinite solution, which is { �, � : � = 3
� + 1}

� 1 � + �1 � = �1
Let , � ≠ �2 ≠ �2 ≠ 0, be a system of linear equations, then
� 2 � + �2 � = �2 2
�1 �
1. If �2
≠ �1, then the system has one solution. This means there is only one ordered pair that do
2
not have a common solution. In this case, the system is said to be inconsistent. (as in the
example (b) above)
�1 � �
2. If �2
= �1 = �1, then the system has infinite solutions. In this case, every ordered pair that
2 2
satisfies one of the component equations also satisfies the second. Such a system is said to be
dependent (as in the example (a) above)

Example 7 By considering the ratio of the coefficients, determine whether each of the following
system of linear equations has a solution or not.

2� + 3� = 1 3� − 2� = 2 �+�=3
a) b) c)
� − 2� = 3 9� − 6� = 5 2� + 2� = 6

2� + 3� = 1
Solution a)
� − 2� = 3
2 3
The ratio of the coefficients gives 1 ≠ −2.

Therefore, the system has one solution.

3� − 2� = 2
b)
9� − 6� = 5
3 2 2
The ratio of the coefficients gives 9 = 6 ≠ 5

Therefore, the system has no solution.

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�+�=3
c)
2� + 2� = 6
1 1 3
The ratio of the coefficients gives 2 = 2 = 6

Therefore, the system has infinite solution.

Word problems leading to a system of linear equations

Systems of linear equations have many real life applications. The real life problems
need to be constructed in a mathematical form as a system of linear equations which
will be solved by the following techniques.

1. Represent the unknowns by variables.

2. Formulate the mathematical equations representing each of the situations.
3. Solve each system and determine the unknown.
Example 8
a) Teshome bought 6 pencils and 2 rubber erasers from a shop and paid a total of Birr 3.
Meskerem also paid a total of Birr 3 for 4 pencils and 3 rubber erasers. Find the prices of the
pencils and rubber erases.

Solutions Let x and y be the prices of a pencil and a rubber eraser.

Teshome bought 6 pencils for Birr 6x and 2 rubber erasers for Birr 2y and paid a total of Birr 3 which
means 6� + 2� = 3

Meskerem bought 4 pencils for Birr 6x and 3 rubber erasers for Birr 3y and paid a total of Birr 3
which means 4� + 3� = 3.

When we consider these equations simultaneously, we get the following system of equations.

6� + 2� = 3
4� + 3� = 3

Multiplying the first equation by –3 and the second by 2 to make the coefficients of y opposite.

−18� − 6� =− 9
8� + 6� = 6

Adding the equations we get −18� − 6� + 8� + 6� =− 9 + 6 ⟹− 10� =− 3

3
⟹�=
10

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3 3
Substituting x = 10 in one of the equations, say 4� + 3� = 3, we get 4� 10 + 3� = 3

12 12 18 6
⟹ + 3� = 3 ⟹ 3� = 3 − ⟹ 3� = ⟹�=
10 10 10 10
3 6
Therefore the solution is (10, 10) showing that the price for a pencil is r
30 cents and the price for a rubber eraser is 60 cents.

b) A company has two brands of fertilizers A and B for sell. A cooperative bought
10 quintals of brand A and 27 quintals of brand B fertilizers and paid a total of
Birr 20,000.
Ato Kassa a successful farm owner, bought 15 quintals of brand A and 9 quintals of
brand B fertilizers from the same company and paid a total of Birr 14,250. Find the price of a
quintal of brad A and brand B fertilizers.

Solution Let x be the price of a quintal of brad A fertilizer and y a quintal of brand B fertilizer.

A cooperative bought 10 quintals of brand A fertilizer for Birr 10x and 27 quintals of brand B
fertilizer for Birr 27y costing a total of Birr 20, 000 which means 10� + 27� = 20000

Ato Kassa bought 15 quintals of brand A fertilizer for Birr 15x and 9 quintals of brand B fertilizer
for Birr 9y costing a total of Birr 14250 which means 15� + 9� = 14250

When we consider these equations simultaneously, we get the following system of equations.

10� + 27� = 20000

15� + 9� = 14250

Multiplying the first equation by –3 and the second by 2 to make the coefficients of x opposite.

−30� − 81� =− 60000

30� + 18� = 28500

Adding the equations we get −30� − 81� + 30� + 18� =− 60000 + 28500 ⟹− 63� =− 31500

⟹ � = 500

Substituting y = 500 in one of the equations, say 10� + 27� = 20000, we get 10� + 27�500 =
20000 ⟹ 10� = 20000 − 13500 ⟹ 10� = 6500 ⟹ � = 650

Therefore, the solution is (650, 500) showing that the price for a quintal of brand A fertilizer is
Birr 650 and the price for a quintal of brand B fertilizer is Birr 500.

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c) A farmer collected a total of Birr 11,000 by selling 3 cows and 5 sheep. Another farmer
collected Birr 7,000 by selling one cow and 10 sheep.What is the price for a cow and a sheep?
(Assume all cows have the same price and also the price of every sheep is the same).

Solution Let x represent the price of a cow and y the price of a sheep.

Farmer I sold 3 cows for 3x and 5 sheep for 5y collecting a total of Birr 11,000.
Which means, 3� + 5� = 11,000
Farmer II sold 1 cow for x and 10 sheep for 10y collecting a total of Birr 7,000. Which means, � +
10� = 7,000
When we consider these equations simultaneously, we get the following system of
equations.
3� + 5� = 11,000
� + 10� = 7,000

Multiplying the first equation by –2 to make the coefficients of y opposite

−6� − 10� =− 22,000

� + 10� = 7,000

Adding the equations we get –6x+x–10y+10y=–22,000+7,000

⟹ –5x = –22,000 + 7,000 ⟹ –5x = –15,000 ⟹ x = 3,000

Substituting x = 3,000 in one of the equations, say x + 10y = 7,000, we get,3,000 + 10y = 7,000
⟹10y = 4,000⟹ � = 400
Therefore the solution is (3000, 400) showing that the price for a cow is Birr 3,000 and the price
for a sheep is Birr 400.

d) Simon has twin younger brothers. The sum of the ages of the three brothers is 48 and the
difference between his age and the age of one of his younger brothers is 3. How old is Simon?
Solution: Let x be the age of Simon and y be the age of each of his younger brothers. The sum
of the ages of the three brothers is 48.
So � + � + � = 48
⟹ � + 2� = 48.

The difference between his age and the age of one of his younger brothers is 3 implying
x – y = 3.
� + 2� = 48
To find Simon’s age, we need to solve the system
x – y = 3.

Multiplying the second equation by 2 to make the coefficients of y opposite

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� + 2� = 48
2x –2 y = 6

Adding the equations, we get x + 2x + 2y – 2y = 48 + 6 ⟹3x = 54⟹ � = 18

Therefore, Simon is 18 years old.

Exercise 1.2

1. Which of the following are linear equations in two variables?

a) 5� + 5� = 7 b) � + 3�� + 2� = 1 c ) � = 2� – 7
4 3
d) � = �2 e) �
−�=2

2. The sum of two numbers is 64. Twice the larger number plus five times the
smaller number is 20. Find the two numbers.
3. In a two-digit number, the sum of the digits is 14. Twice the tens digit exceeds
the units digit by one. Find the numbers.

4. Determine whether each of the following systems of equations has one solution,
infinite solutions or no solution.

3� − � = 7 2� + 5� = 12 3� − � = 7 4� − 3� = 6
a) b) 5 c) d)
−3x + 3 y =− 1 x− y =4 3x + 3 y = 12 2x + 3 y = 12
2

5. Solve each of the following systems of equations by using a graphical method.

2
3� + 5� − 11 = 0 −3� + � = 5 �+�=6
a) 4x − 2 y = 4
b)
3x − y = 5
c) 3
3
−x − 2 y = 12

� − 2� = 1 0.5� + 0.25� = 1
d) e)
7x + 4 y = 16 x+ y =2

6. Solve each of the following systems of equations by the substitution method.

2 1
2� + 7� = 14 �=�−5 � − 3� = 2
a) x+
7
y =4
b)
x=y
c) 3
1
2 −x + y =− 3
3

−2� + 2� = 3 � + 3� = 1
d) e)
7x + 4 y = 17 2x + 5 y = 2

7. Solve each of the following systems of equations by the elimination method.

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2 1
−3� + � = 5 4� − 3� = 6 �− �=2
a) 3x + y = 4
b)
2x + 3y = 12
c) 3
1
3
−x + y =− 3
3

1
� − 2� = 5 � + 3� = 1
d) 2 e)
7x + 4 y = 6 2x + 5 y = 2

8. Solve
2 3
3� − 0.5� = 6 + =− 2
� � 2 3
a) b) (hint let a = and b = �)
−2x + y = 4 + 2y 4 5
− =1 �
� �

9. Find b and c given that the graph of � = �2 + �� + � passes through (3, 14) and (–4, 7).

10. A student in a chemistry laboratory has access to two acid solutions. The first solution is 20%
acid and the second solution is 45% acid. (The percentages are by volume). How many milliliters
of each solution should the student mix together to obtain 100 ml of a 30% acid solution?

1.3 Equations involving absolute values

The methods frequently used for describing sets are the complete listing method, the partial
listing method and the set-builder method. Sets of real numbers or subsets may be described by
using the set-builder method or intervals (sets of real numbers between any two given real
numbers).
Notation: For real numbers a and b where a < b,
 (a, b) is an open interval;
 (a, b] and [a, b) are half closed or half open intervals; and
 [a, b ] is a closed interval.
For example, (5, 9) is the set of real numbers between 5 and 9 and [5, 9] is the set of real
numbers between 5 and 9 including 5 and 9.
That is, (5, 9) = {� : 5 < � < 9 ��� � ∈ ℝ}
[5, 9] = {� : 5 ≤ � ≤ 9 ��� � ∈ ℝ}
In general, if a and b are fixed real numbers with � < �, then
[�, �] = {�: � ≤ � ≤ � ��� � ∈ ℝ } (�, �) = {�: � < � < � ��� � ∈ ℝ}
( − ∞, �] = {�: � ≤ � ��� � ∈ ℝ} (�, ∞) = {�: � > � ��� � ∈ ℝ}

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Note: The symbol " ∞ " is used to mean positive infinity and "− ∞ " is used to mean negative
infinity.

Intervals are commonly used to express the solution sets of inequalities. For instance, let us find
the solution set of 2� + 4 ≤ 3� – 5.
2� + 4 ≤ 3� – 5 is equivalent to 2� – 3� < – 5 – 4 which is – � ≤ – 9.
Multiplying both sides by –1 gives � ≥ 9. (Remember that, when you multiply or divide by a
negative number, the inequality sign is changed). So, the solution set is [9, ∞).
Look at the number line given below.

What are the coordinates of points A and B, on the number line?

What is the distance of point A from the origin? What about B?
The number that shows only the distance from the point corresponding to zero (and not the
direction) is called the absolute value. For example, the point C (with coordinate –2)
is 2 units from the point corresponding to zero. This is denoted by | − 2| = 2.
On the number line, x is the distance between the point corresponding to number x and the point
corresponding to zero, regardless of whether the point is to the right or left of the point
corresponding to zero as shown in Figure below.

Geometrically, the equation � = 5 means that the point with coordinate x is 5 units away from
the point corresponding to zero, on the number line. Obviously, the number line contains two

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points that are 5 units from the point corresponding to zero, along one to the left and the other to
the right. So, � = 5 has two solutions, � = 5 and � = –5.

Definition: The absolute value of a number �, denoted by � , is defined as follows.

�, �� � ≥ 0
� =
−�, �� � ≤ 0
Example: Using the definition, determine the absolute value of each of the following.
a. 3 b. –2 c. –0.4
Solution:
a. Since 3 > 0, 3 = 3 b Since –2 < 0, | –2| = –(–2) = 2
c. –0.4 < 0, and thus |–0.4| = –(–0.4) = 0.4
Note::1 For any real number �, |�| = | –�|.

2 For any real number �, | �| is always non-negative.

We considered absolute value as a distance of a point (representing a number) from the origin, or
the distance between the location of the number and the origin. However, it is also possible to
consider the distance between any other two points on the real line.
Example: Find the distance between the points represented by the numbers 3 and 9.
Solution: The distance between the points represented by numbers 3 and 9 is given as
|3 − 9| = | − 6| = 6 or |9 − 3| = | 6| = 6.
The distance between the location of any two real numbers � and � is |� − �| or |� – �|.
Note that |� − � | = |� − �|.
Example: |5 − 3| = |2| = 2 or |3 − 5| = | − 2| = 2 .
Example: Evaluate each of the following.
a |2 – 5| b | –3 – 4| c |8 – 3| d |2 – –5 |
Solution:
a |2 – 5| = | –3| = 3 b | –3 – 4| = | –7| = 7
c | 8 – 3| = | 5| = 5 d | 2 – –5 | = | 2 + 5| = |7| = 7
Note: For any real number a, the equation |�| = � has
i. two solutions � = � and � = –�, if � > 0;

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ii. one solution, � = 0, if � = 0, and
iii. no solution, if � < 0.
Example
a | � – 2| = 3 means � – 2 = 3 or � – 2 = –3, � = 5 or � = –1 which has two solutions.
b | � + 4 | = 5 means � + 4 = 5 or � + 4 = –5
� = 1 or � = – 9 which has two solutions.
This concept of absolute value is essential in solving various problems. Here we see how we can
solve equations involving absolute values.
Example: Solve | 2� – 3| = 5
Solution: Following the definition | 2� – 3| = 5 means 2� – 3 = 5 or 2� – 3 = –5, Solving
these linear equations, � = 4 or � = –1.
Example: Determine the value of the variable _ in each of the following absolute value
equations.
a |�| = 4 b | � – 1| = 5 c |–2� + 3| = 4
d |�| = –5 e |2� + 3| = –3
Solution:
a | �| = 4 means � = 4 or � = – 4
b |� – 1| = 5 means � – 1 = 5 or � – 1 = –5
Therefore � = 6 or � = – 4.
c |–2� + 3| = 4 means –2� + 3 = 4 or –2� + 3 = –4
–2� = 1 or –2� = –7
−1 7
Therefore, � = 2
or � = 2.

d Since |�| is always non-negative, | �| = –5 has no solution.

e Since |�| is always non-negative, |2� + 3| = –3 has no solution.
Note:: For any real number �; | �| = | �| means � = � or � = –�.
Example: Solve each of the following equations.
a | � – 1| = | 2� + 1| b |3� + 2| = |2� – 1|
Solution: a |� – 1| = |2� + 1| means � – 1 = 2� + 1 or � – 1 = – (2� + 1)
� – 2� = 1 + 1 or � + 2� = –1 + 1
–� = 2 or 3� = 0

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Therefore, � = –2 or � = 0.
b |3� + 2| = | 2� – 1| means 3� + 2 = 2� – 1 or 3� + 2 = –(2� – 1)
3� – 2� = –1– 2 or 3� + 2� = 1 – 2
� = –3 or 5� = –1
1
Therefore, � =− 3 or � =− 5

Example: Solve each of the following equations.

a |� – 1| = | � + 1| b |2� + 2| = |2� – 1|
Solution:
a |� – 1| = | � + 1| means � – 1 = � + 1 or � – 1 = –(� + 1)
� – � = 1 + 1 or � + � = –1 + 1
0 = 2 or 2� = 0
But 0 = 2 is impossible.
Therefore � = 0.
b |2� + 2| = |2� – 1| means 2� + 2 = 2� – 1 or 2� + 2 = –(2� – 1)
2� – 2� = –1 – 2 or 2� + 2� = 1 – 2
0 = –3, or 4� = –1 .
But 0 = –3 is not possible.
1
Therefore, � =− 4 .

Properties of absolute value

For any real numbers � and �;
1 � ≤ | �| .
2 |��| = | �|| �| .
3 � 2 = |�| .
4 |� + �| ≤ | �| + | �| (This is called the triangle inequality).
a If � and � are both non-positive or both non-negative, |� + �| = | �| + |�| .
b If one of � or � is positive and the other is negative, |� + �| < | � | + | � |
� �
5 If � ≠ 0 then �
=
�

6 − |�| ≤ | �| ≤ | �|.
Exercise 1.3

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1 Evaluate each of the following.
a | 2 – –3 | b |–4 + 9| c |–5 – 2| d | 8|–| 3 – 7|
2 Solve each of the following equations.
a |� – 5| = –5 b | � – 5| = 5 c |– 2� – 3 | = 7
d |3 – 4�| = 8 e |� – 3 + 2� | = 6 f |12 – � + 7 | = 3
3 Solve each of the following equations.
a | 5 – �| = | 3� – 7| b |3� – 2| = |3� – 7| c |5 – 4�| = |7 + 3�|
d | 3� + 4| –| � + 7| = 0 e |7 – � + 3 | + |3� – 3| = 0
4 Solve each of the following equations.
a |� – 3| + | � – 3| = 9 b |3� + 2| –|� – 3| = 5 c – 2� –3 + |�| = 12
d |4� – 2| = 8 + | � – 3| e |5� – 1 – 2� |–|3 – 2�| = 8 f 12 – � + 7 + |� – 3| = 3
Hint: Here, for |� + �| + | � + �| = �, notice that | � + �| takes either � + � or –(� + �)
and also | � + �| takes either � + � or –(� + �), depending on whether they are greater than 0
or less than 0. Therefore, you need to consider four cases to solve such problems!
5 Verify each of the following.
a |� − �| ≤ | � + �| when � = – 2 and � = 3. b (3� − 7)2 = |3� − 7| , when � = 5.
1.4. Inequalities involving absolute values
Theorem Solution of |�| < � and |�| ≤ �
For any real number a > 0,
i. the solution of the inequality |� | < � is – � < � < �.
ii. the solution of the inequality |�| ≤ � is – � ≤ � ≤ �.

Example: Solve each of the following absolute value inequalities:

a |2� – 5| < 3 b |3 – 5� | ≤ 1
Solution:
a |2� – 5| < 3 is equivalent to –3 < 2� – 5 < 3,
⇒ − 3 < 2� – 5 and 2� – 5 < 3
⇒ − 3 + 5 < 2� – 5 + 5 and 2� – 5 + 5 < 3 + 5
⇒ 2 < 2� and 2� < 8
⇒ 1 < � and � < 4 that is, 1 < � < 4.
Therefore, the solution set is {�: 1 < � < 4} = (1, 4).

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We can represent the solution set on the number line as follows:

b |3 – 5� | ≤ 1 is equivalent to –1 ≤ 3 – 5� ≤ 1
⇒ –1 ≤ 3 – 5� and 3 – 5� ≤ 1
⇒ –1 – 3 ≤ 3 – 3 – 5� and 3 – 3 – 5� ≤ 1 – 3
⇒ – 4 ≤ –5� and –5� ≤ – 2
⇒ 5� ≤ 4 and 2 ≤ 5�
4 2 2 4
⇒ � ≤ 5 and � ≥ 5 that is, 5 ≤ � ≤ 5
2 4 2 4
Therefore, the solution set is 5
≤�≤5 = , .
5 5

Note: In | �| < �, if � < 0 the inequality |�| < � has no solution.

Theorem: Solution of |�| > � and |�| ≥ �
For any real number a, if � > 0, then
i. the solution of the inequality |�| > � is � < – � or � > �.
ii. the solution of the inequality � ≥ � is � ≤ – � �� � ≥ �.
Example: Solve each of the following inequalities:
�
a |5 + 2� | > 6 b �
− �� ≥ � c |3 − �| > − 2

Solution: According to Theorem.

a |5 + 2� | > 6 implies 5 + 2� < – 6 or 5 + 2� > 6
⇒ 5 – 5 + 2� < – 6 – 5 or 5 – 5 + 2� > 6 – 5
⇒ 2� < – 11 or 2� > 1
11 1
⇒ � <− 2
or � > 2
11 1
Therefore, the solution set is �: � <− 2
or � > 2 . (Try to represent this solution on the number

line)
3 3 3
b 5
− 2� ≥ 1 implies − 2� ≥ 1 or − 2� ≤− 1
5 5
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Hence 5
− 2� ≤− 1 or implies 5 − 2� ≥ 1 gives as 5 − 5 − 2� ≤− 1 − 5 or 5 − 5 − 2� ≥ 1 − 5
8 2
⇒− 2� ≤− 5 or −2� ≥ 5

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4 1
⇒ � ≥ 5 or � ≤− 5
4 1
Therefore, the solution set is �: � ≥ 5 �� � ≤− 5 .

c By definition, 3 − � = � − 3 ≥ 0. So, | 3–�| > –2 is true for all real numbers x.

Therefore, the solution set is ℝ .
Exercise 1.41 1.4
1 Simplify and write each of the following using intervals:
a { � : � ∈ ℝ and � ≠ –2 } b { � : –1 ≤ � – 2 ≤ 2 }
c { �: � + 3 > 2 } d � : 5� − 9 ≤ 9
e { �: 2� + 3 ≥ –5�} f {�: 2� –1 < � < 3}
2 Solve each of the following inequalities:
8�−3 1
a 2� – 5 ≥ 3� b 3� + 1 < 2
c 4
� +2 > 3 5−�

3 A number y is 15 larger than a positive number x. If their sum is not more than 85, what are the
possible values of such number y?
2 1
4 If � =− 3 and � = 5, then evaluate the following:
3�−2�
a |6� | + |5�| b |3�| –|10�| c |3� – 10�| d �+�

5. Solve each of the following absolute value equations:

a |3� + 6| = 7 b |5� – 3| = 9 c |� – 6 | = –6
3 1 1
d |7 – 2�| = 0 e |6 – 3�| + 5 = 14 f 4
�+8 =
2

6 Solve each of the following absolute value inequalities and express their solution sets in
intervals:
2 1 1
a |3 – 5� | ≤ 1 b |5� | – 2 < 8 c 3
�−
9
≥3

d |6 – 2�| + 3 > 8 e 3� + 5 ≤ 0 f |� – 1| > – 2

7 For any real numbers a, b and c such that a 0 and c > 0, solve each of the following
inequalities:
a |�� + �| < � b �� + � ≤ � c |�� + � > � d �� + � ≥ �

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1.5. System of linear inequalities in two variables
The first degree (linear) equation in two variables has the form
�� + �� = �
where a and b both are not 0.
When two or more linear equations involve the same variables, they are called a system of
linear equations. An ordered pair that satisfies all the linear equations of a system is called a
solution of the system. For instance
2x − y = 7
� + 5� =− 2
is a system of two linear equations. What is its solution?

A system of two linear equations in two variables often involves a pair of straight lines in the
plane. The solution set of such a system of equations can be determined from the graph and is the
set of all ordered pairs of coordinates of points which lie on both lines.

�−�= �
Example 1 Find the solution set of the system of equations
� + �� = �
Solution: First draw the graphs of � – � = � and � + �� = � as shown below.

The two lines intersect at (2, –1).

Therefore, the solution set of the system is {(2, –1)}.
In a system of equations, if “=” is replaced by “ < ”, “ > ”, “ ≤ ” or “ ≥ ”, the system becomes a
system of linear inequalities.
Example 2 Find the solution of the following system of inequalities graphically:

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y ≥− 3x + 2
�<�−2
Solution: First draw the graph of one of the boundary lines, � = –3� + 2,
corresponding to the first inequality.
The graph of � ≥ –3� + 2 consists of points on or above the line � = –3� + 2 as shown in
Figure.

This is obtained by taking a test point say (2, 0), and checking that 0 ≥ –3(2) + 2 = –4 is
true. Next, draw the graph of the other boundary line, � = � – 2, corresponding to the second
inequality. The graph of � < � – 2 consists of points below the line � = � – 2. Points on the
line are excluded as shown in Figure.

These graphs have been drawn using different coordinate systems in order to see them separately.
Now, draw them using the same coordinate system. The part of the coordinate system marked
with both types of shading is the solution set for the system as shown in Figure.

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y ≥− 3x + 2
The solution set of is shown by the cross-shaded region in the diagram.
�<�−2
y =− 3x + 2
Solving , we get –3� + 2 = � – 2. Therefore, � = 1 and � = –1.
�=�−2
So, � > 1, –3� + 2 ≤ � < � – 2
Hence, the solution set of the system is expressed as
{(�, �) : − 3� + 2 £ � < � − 2 ��� 1 < � < ∞}
Example 3 Find the solution of each of the following systems of linear inequalities, graphically:
y+x < 3 y+x > 0
a. �≥0 b. � − � ≤ 1
�≥0 �≤2
Solution:
a Here, our objective is to determine the set of points whose coordinates (�, �) satisfy all three of
these conditions. To do so, let us draw each boundary line as shown below. The points satisfying
the conditions � > 0 are those lying to the right of the y-axis as shown in Figure.

The points (�, �) with � > 0 are the points that lie above the x-axis as shown in Figure

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The points (�, �) with � + � < 3 is the set of points lying below the line � + � = 3. Points
on the line are excluded.
Now, draw the graph of the three inequalities � ≥ 0, � ≥ 0 and � + � < 3, using the same
coordinate system, taking only the intersection of the three regions.

The points satisfying the system of inequalities are the points that satisfy all the three inequalities.
The corresponding region is the triangular region shaded in Figure above. That is, the set of
(�, �) such that � ∈ [0, 3) and � ∈ [0, 3 – �).
b First, draw the graph of the boundary line � + � = 0 (or � = − �) for the first inequality.
The graph of � + � > 0 consists of points above the line. Points on the line are excluded as
shown in Figure below.

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Next, draw the graph of the boundary line � – � = 1 for the second inequality. The graph of
� – � ≤ 1 consists of points on and below the line � – � = 1 as shown in Figure below.

Finally, draw the graph of the boundary line � = 2 for the third inequality. The points (�, �)
satisfying the condition � ≤ 2 are those lying on and to the left of the line x = 2 as shown in
Figure below.

Now, draw the graph of the three inequalities using the same coordinate system as shown in
Figure below.

Because there are infinite solutions to the system, the elements cannot be listed. But the graph is
1 1
easy to describe. The solution is the triangular region with vertices − 2 , 2 , (2, 3) and (2, −
2) , except those points on the line � + � = 0, as shown in Figure below.

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We shall now consider an example involving an application of a system of linear inequalities.

Example 4 A furniture company makes tables and chairs. To produce a table, it requires 2 hrs on
machine A, and 4 hrs on machine B. To produce a chair, it requires 3 hrs on machine A and 2 hrs
on machine B. Machine A can operate at most 12 hrs a day and machine B can operate at most
16 hrs a day. If the company makes a profit of Birr 12 on a table and Birr 10 on a chair, how
many of each should be produced to maximize its profit?
Solution: Let x be the number of tables to be produced and y be the number of chairs to be
produced. Then, if a table is produced in 2 hrs on machine A, � tables require 2� hrs. Similarly,
� chairs require 3� hrs on machine A. On machine B, � tables require 4� hrs and � chairs require
2� hrs. Since machines A and B can operate at most 12 hrs and 16 hrs, respectively, you have the
following system of linear inequalities.
From machine A: 2� + 3� ≤ 12
From machine B: 4� + 2� ≤ 16
Also, � ≥ 0 and � ≥ 0 since � and � are numbers of tables and chairs.
Hence, you obtain a system of linear inequalities given as follows:
2� + 3� ≤ 12
4� + 2� ≤ 16
�≥0
�≥0
Since the inequalities involved in the system are all linear, the boundaries of the graph of the
system are straight lines. The region containing the solution to the system is the quadrilateral
shown below.

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The profit made is Birr 12 on a table, so Birr 12� on � tables and Birr 10 on a chair, so Birr 10�
on � chairs. The profit function P is given by � = 12� + 10�. The values of � and � which
maximize or minimize the profit function on such a system is usually found at vertices of the
solution region. Hence, from the graph, you have the coordinates of each vertex as shown in
Figure above.
The profit: � = 12� + 10� at each vertex is found to be:
At (0, 0), � = 12 (0) + 10 (0) = 0
At (0, 4), � = 12 (0) + 10 (4) = 40
At (3, 2), � = 12 (3) + 10 (2) = 56
At (4, 0), � = 12 (4) + 10 (0) = 48
Therefore, the profit is maximum at the vertex (3, 2), so the company should
produce 3 tables and 2 chairs per day to get the maximum profit of Birr 56.

Exercise 1.5
1 Draw the graphs of each of the following relations:
a � = {( � , �) : � – � ≥ 1 and 2� + � < 3}
b � = {( � , �) : � ≤ � – 1 and � – 2� > 2}
c � = {( �, �) : � > � ; � > 0 and � – � < 1}
d � = {(� , �) : � + � ≥ 0 ; � ≥ 0 and � + � < 1}
2 Solve each of the following system of linear inequalities graphically:

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� ≤ 2� + 3 3� + � < 5 �<1−�
a �−�≥0 b �>0 c � > �+2
�>0 �+�<6 �>0
� ≥− 1 �>0
0≤�≤1
d �≤2 e f �>0
0≤�≤1
�≥�−1 �+�<4
3 Describe each of the following shaded regions with a system of linear inequalities:

4. Give a pair of linear inequalities that describes the set of all points in the first quadrant.
5. Give a system of linear inequalities whose solution set is all the points inside a rectangle.
6. Suppose the sum of two positive numbers x and y is less than 10 and greater than 5. Show all
possible values for x and y graphically.
7. Suppose a shoe factory produces both low-grade and high-grade shoes. The factory produces
at least twice as many low-grade as high-grade shoes. The maximum possible production is 500
pairs of shoes. A dealer calls for delivery of at least 100 high-grade pairs of shoes per day.
Suppose the operation makes a profit of Birr 2.00 per a pair of shoes on high-grade shoes and
Birr 1.00 per pairs of shoes on low-grade shoes. How many pairs of shoes of each type should be
produced for maximum profit?

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Hint: Let x denote the number of high-grade shoes.
Let y denote the number of low-grade shoes.

1.6 Quadratic equations and Inequalities

1.6.1. Quadratic equations

Recall that for real numbers � and �, any equation that can be reduced to the form

Definition 1.7.1
An equation of the form ��2 + �� + � = 0 where �, �, �, ∈ � and � ≠ 0 is a quadratic
equation. Here, � is called the leading coefficient, � is the middle term and � is the constant term.

�� + � = 0, where � ≠ 0 is called a linear equation.

Examples: � 2 + 3� – 2 = 0, 2� 2 – 5� = 3, 3� 2 – 6� = 0, (� + 3) (� + 2) = 7 etc, are

examples of quadratic equations.
There are three basic methods for solving quadratic equations: the method of factorization (if
possible), method of completing the square and using the method of quadratic formula (general
formula) method.
How How to solve a quadratic equation by factorization method?
1. Put all terms on one side of the equal sign, leaving zero on the other side.
2. Factorize the equation.
3. Set each factor equal to zero.
4. Solve each of these equations.
5. Check by inserting your answer in the original equation.
Expressions are combinations of various terms that are represented as a product of
variables or numbers and variables.

Example 1 �2 + 2�, 2�2 + 4� + 2, (� + 1) �2 + 6�, ���. are expressions.

�2 and 2� are the terms in �2 + 2� and 2�2 , 4�, and 2 are the terms in 2�2 + 4� + 2.

Factorizing an expression is expressing it as a product of its simplest factors.

Example 2 Factorize 2�2 − 9�

Solution: The two terms in this expression, 2�2 and –9�, have � as a common factor. Hence,
2�2 − 9� can be factorized as �(2� − 9). So 2�2 − 9� = � 2� − 9 .

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Example 2: Solve the quadratic equation�2 + 3� = 0.

�(� + 3) = 0
� = 0 �� � + 3 = 0
� = 0 �� � = − 3
Hence, the solution of the quadratic equation is � = 0, � = − 3.

Example 3: Solve the quadratic equation �2 − 6� − 16 = 0.

Solution:
Factorizing this we have, (Find two numbers whose sum is −6 & product is −16 ). They are
−8 ��� 2. Hence, (� – 8) (� + 2) = 0.
� − 8 = 0 �� � + 2 = 0.
Recall that �� = 0 if and only if � = 0 or � = 0
� = 8, � = − 2.
Hence, the solution of the quadratic equation is � = 8, � = − 2.

Exercise 1.6.1
Solving the following quadratic equations using factorization method.

a. �2 − 5� = 0 c. �2 + 7� + 10 = 0
b. �2 + � − 6 = 0 d. �2 − 4� + 3 = 0

Factorizing Trinomials
You saw how to factorize expressions that have common factors. You also saw factorizing the
difference of two squares. Now you will see how to factorize a Trinomial ��2 + �� + � by
grouping terms, if you are able to find two numbers � and � such that � + � = � and �� =
��.

Example 1
Solve the quadratic equation �2 + 6� + 9 = 0.
Solution: � + 3 (� + 3) = � + 3 2 = 0 (Factorizing: ��� = 6 & ������� = 9).
� = −3
Hence, the solution of the quadratic equation is � =− 3 �� �ℎ� ���� ��������.

Example 2
Solve the quadratic equation �2 − 9 = 0.
Solution:

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(� – 3) (� + 3) = 0 (Factorizing: ��� = 0 & ������� = (1) ( − 9) = − 9.
� = 3 �� � = − 3
Hence, the solution of the quadratic equation is � = 3 ��� � = − 3.
Example 3
Solve the quadratic equation 4�2 + 4� + 1 = 0.
Solution:
Writing 4�2 + 2� + 2� + 1 = 0.

2� (2� + 1) + 1(2� + 1) = 0.

(2� + 1) (2� + 1) = 0,

2� + 1 2 = 0
1
� = −
2
1
Hence, the solution of the quadratic equation is � = − 2

Factorizing the difference of two squares

If we multiply (� + 2) and (� − 2), we see that � + 2 . � – 2 = �2 – 4 = �2 −

22
In general,

Example
Factorize �2 − 9
Solution: �2 − 9 = � − 3 . (� + 3)
Example
Factorize 4�2 − 16
Solution: 4�2 − 16 = 2� 2 − 42 = 2� − 4 . (2� + 4)

Exercise 1.6. 2
Solve the following quadratic equations using factorization method.
a. �2 + 10� + 25 = 0
b. �2 − 8� + 16 = 0

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2
c. � − 4 = 0
d. 9�2 − 6� + 1 = 0
.
Completing the square method

Example
Is it possible to solve �2 + 6� + 4 = 0 using factorization method?
Solution:
Since there are no two integers whose sum is equal to 6 and product is equal to 4, this quadratic
equation may not be solved using factorization method. Hence, we need another method to solve
the equation.
Completing the square is where we take the quadratic equation ��2 + �� + � = 0, � ≠ 0
� 2 4ac−b2
and convert it � + 2� + 4a2
as follows:
� �
�2 + �+ (����� � ≠ 0)
� �
� �2 � �2
(�2 + � � + 4�2 ) + � − 4�2 = 0 (Taking half of the coefficient of the middle term and squaring it
and adding its opposite). The expression in the bracket is a perfect square. Hence, after
simplifying, we have
� 2 4ac−b2
� + 2� + 4a2
= 0……..(*)
� 2 4ac−b2
Equivalently, ��2 + �� + � = 0 if and only if �+
2�
+ 4a2
=0

Example
Solve �2 + 4� + 4 = 0 using completing the square method.
Solution:
(�2 + 4� + 4) + 4 − 4 = 0 (Adding the square of half of the coefficient of the middle term
(4) and its opposite.
� + 2 2 − 0 = 0. (Writing as a perfect square)
� + 2 2= 0
� = −2
Example
Solve �2 + 6� + 7 = 0 using completing the square method.
Solution:
�2 + 6� + 9 + 7 − 9 = 0 (Adding the square of half of the coefficient of the middle term
(6) and its opposite.
(�2 + 6� + 9) + 7 − 9 = 0 , (Collocating those terms which sum up as a perfect square)
� + 3 2 − 2 = 0. (Writing as a perfect square)

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� + 3 2= 2
� + 3 = ± 2 . (Taking the square root)
� = −3± 2
Therefore, � = − 3 + 2 ��� � = − 3 − 2 are the solutions.

Example

Solve 3�2 + 10� + 7 = 0 using completing the square method.

Solution
10 7
�2 + � + = 0 (Dividing both sides by 3)
3 3
2 10 100 7 100
� + �+ + − = 0 (Colleting those terms which sum up as a perfect square)
3 36 3 36
10 2 16
�+
6
− 36 = 0 (Writing as a perfect square)
10 2 4 10 2
�+
6
= 9 . Therefore, � =− 6
± 3 (Extracting from the square root)
7
Therefore, � = − 1 and � =− 3 are the solutions.
Exercise 1.6.3

Use completing the square method to solve the following.

a. �2 + 2� + 1 = 0 d. �2 − 6 = 0
b. �2 + 4� + 1 = 0 e. 2�2 + 5� + 3 = 0
c. �2 − 6� − 5 = 0 f. 3�2 − 6� + 48 =

The quadratic formula method

There are quadratic equations that cannot be solved by factorization method. This is generally true
when the roots are not rational numbers. Consider the quadratic equation ��2 + �� + � = 0,
�ℎ��� � ≠ 0.
� 2 4ac−b2
From the completing the square method, we have � + 2� + 4a2
=0
� 2 b2 − 4ac
Solving for x, � + 2� = 4a2
� b2− 4ac
�+ =± 4a2
2�
� b2− 4ac
� =− 2� ± 2�

−� ± b2 − 4ac
�=
2�

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Example

Solve �2 − 6� + 3 = 0 using the quadratic formula.

Solution:
1, − 6 and 3 are the values for a, b, and c, respectively in the quadratic formula. Since
�2 − 4�� = 24 > 0 , we have two distinct real roots. That is,
−� ± b2 − 4ac
�=
2�
−( − 6) ± 62 − 4(1)(3)
�=
2(1)
6 ± 36 − 12 6 ± 24
�= = =3± 6
2 2

Hence, 3 + 6 and 3 − 6 are the solutions. Can you solve this using other methods?

Exercise 1.6.4

Use quadratic formula to solve the following.

a. �2 + 3� + 1 = 0
b. �2 + 5� − 2 = 0
c. 2�2 − 3� − 1 = 0

Exa
mple

Chec
k
whet
her

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2
� + 2� + 2 = 0 has distinct real roots, one real root or no real roots. If root exists, find it.111
Solution:
� = 1, � = 2 and � = 2.
Since �2 − 4�� = 24 < 0 , we have no real roots; the roots are imaginary,
−� ± b2 − 4ac
�=
2�
2
−2 ± 2 − 4(1)(2)
�=
2�
−2 ± 4 − 8 −2 ± −4
�= =
2 2

Since the discriminant D = b2 − 4ac is negative, this quadratic equation has no real root.
Example

Solve �2 + 18� + 81 = 0 using the quadratic formula.

Solution:
� = 1, � = 18 ��� � = 81. Since �2 − 4�� = 0, the equation has exactly one root. The
root is only � = − 9
Example Solve �2 + 4� + 3 = 0 using the quadratic formula.

Solution:
� = 1, � = 4 ��� � = 3. Since �2 − 4�� > 0, the equation has two distinct real roots. The
roots are � = − 1 ��� � = − 3.
Exercise 1.6.5

Check whether the following quadratic equations have two real roots, one real root or no real roots.
a. �2 + 2� + 3 = 0
b. �2 + 12� + 36 = 0
c. �2 + 8� + 7 = 0
Relationships between roots and coefficients of a quadratic equation.

−�+ b2 − 4ac −�− b2 − 4ac

If �1 = 2�
and �2 = 2�
, then
−�+ b2 − 4ac −�− b2 − 4ac
+ and
−�
�1 + �2 = 2� 2�
=
�
−�+ �2 −4�� −�− b2 − 4ac
).(
�
�1 . �2 = ( )=
2� 2� �

Example

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−6 1
Let ��2 + 6� + � = 0. If the sum of the roots is 5
and the product is 5
, then find the values
of � and �.
Solution:
−6 −6
Let r1 and r2 be the roots Hence, we have �1 + �2 = 5
= �
, which implies � = 5 and
1 � �
�1 . �2 = 5 = � = 5, which also implies � = 1. Therefore, the quadratic equation is
5�2 + 6� + 1 = 0.

Example
If the difference between the roots of the equation �2 − 13� + � = 0 is 7, find the value of
�.
Solution:
−� −(−13)
Let �1 and �2 be the roots. �1 + �2 = � = 1 = 13 and �1 − �2 = 7
�1 + �2 = 13 � �
�1 = 10 ��� �2 = 3, �1 . �2 = 10 3 = 30 = � = 1
�1 − �2 = 7

Therefore, � = 30
Exercise 1.6.6
1. Let �2 + �� + � = 0 If the sum of the roots of the quadratic equation is 10 and the
product of the roots is 16, find � ��� �.
2. Find the quadratic equation: ��2 + 3� + � = 0 when the sum of the roots is −3, the
product is 2.
3. Find the values of k for which the quadratic expression (� – �) (� – 10) + 1 has integral
roots.
� � �
4. Find the values of k such that the equation �+� + �−� = 2 � has two equal roots.
5. If the coefficient of x in the quadratic equation �2 + �� + � = 0 was taken as 17 in
place of 13, its roots were found to be −2 and −15. Find the roots of the original
quadratic equation.
6. For what value of �, both the quadratic equations 6�2 − 17� + 12 = 0 and 3�2 −
2� + � = 0 will have a common root.
7. Find the values of k such that the Quadratic Equations 6�2 − 11� + � = 0 and �2 +
14� + 2� = 0 have a common factor.
8. Solve |�2 + 2� − 4| = 4

1.6.2. Quadratic Inequalities

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In the above section, you have learned how to solve quadratic equations using factorization,
completing the square method or quadratic formula.

For instance, inequalities such as �2 − 6� − 16 ≥ 0, 2�2 − 11� + 12 > 0,

�2 + 4 > 0, �2 − 3� + 2 ≤ 0 are quadratic inequalities.

Solving quadratic inequalities using product Properties

Example
Solve (� − 3)(� − 1) < 0
Solution:
Using the product property i.e.

1. � ∙ � < 0 ����� � > 0 ��� � < 0 �� � < 0 ��� � > 0

If (� − 3) < 0, then it gives � < 3 and if (� − 1) > 0, then it gives � > 1
Consider the other case, that is (� − 3) > 0 ��� (� − 1) < 0, this time � > 3 ��� � < 1,
which is a contradiction. So, the solution is � > 1 ��� � < 3. In interval notation, the solution
is � ∈ (1, 3)
Example
Solve the inequality �2 − 4� > − 3
Solution:
First, make one side of the inequality zero by adding both sides by 3 .
�2 − 4� > − 3 ������� �2 − 4� + 3 > 0. Factor the left side of the inequality.
�2 − 4� + 3 > 0 ������� (� − 3)(� − 1) > 0
Case i: � − 3 > 0 ��� � − 1 > 0

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� > 3 ��� � > 1
� > 3
Case ii: � − 3 < 0 ��� � − 1 < 0
� < 3 ��� � < 1
� < 1
Hence, the solution is � > 3 �� � < 1
Alternatively, the solution is � ∈ ( − ∞, 1) ∪ (3, ∞)

Example
Solve the inequality �2 − � ≥ 12.
Solution:
�2 − � ≥ 12 ������� �2 − � − 12 ≥ 0.
Factorize the quadratic inequality to get (� − 4)(� + 3) ≥ 0 .
Using the product rule, the product will be greater than or equal to zero if
i. (� − 4) ≥ 0 & (� + 3) ≥ 0. �����, � ≥ 4 & � ≥ − 3 or
ii. (� − 4) ≤ 0 & (� + 3) ≤ 0. �����, � ≤ 4 & � ≤ − 3
Therefore, the solution of this quadratic inequality is � ≥ 4 �� � ≤ −3. Alternatively, the solution is
� ∈ ( − ∞, − 3) ∪ (4, ∞).
Exercise 1.6.7

Solve the following quadratic inequalities.

1. (� − 2)(� − 4) < 0
2. − �2 + 4 < 0
3. 2�2 + � − 15 ≤ 0

4. �2 + 2� + 1 ≥ 0
5. −2�2 + 5� + 12 ≥ 0
6. �2 + 6� + 9 < 0

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Solving quadratic inequalities using sign chart

Sign chart is a table or number line used to solve inequalities which can be factorized into linear
binomials. For example, of the type (�� + �) (�� + �) > 0 . It could also be less than or equal
or greater than or equal.

Steps in solving quadratic inequalities by sign chart:

1. Re-write the inequality to get a 0 on the right-hand side.
2. Factor (if possible) the left-hand side.
3. “Graph” each factor on a sign chart using a display of signs. A root of any factor
is a key point.
4. Each key point or interval is displayed using a column.

Example
Solve (� − 4) (� + 3) < 0
We use the sign chart as follows:

� − 4 � + 3 < 0
From the table above, we see that (� − 4)(� + 3) < 0 if −3 < � < 4 .
Alternatively, � ∈ ( − 3, 4)
We represent this on a number line as follows:

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Example
Solve �2 + 5� + 6 ≥ 0
Solution:
First factorize �2 + 5� + 6 ≥ 0 ,�� ��� ���� ��, � + 3 (� + 2) ≥ 0

From the table above, we see that � + 3 (� + 2) ≥ 0 when � ≤ − 3 �� � ≥ − 2.

The solution can be written using interval notation as ( − ∞, − 3] ∪ [ − 2, ∞)
We represent this on a number line as follows:

Exercise 1.6.8

1.Use sign chart to solve the following quadratic inequalities. Check the solution with the product
property method.

1) (� − 3)(� + 1) < 0 5) (2� − 1)(3� + 4) > 0

2) 5 − 4� − �2 > 0 6) (� − 3)(� + 2) > 0
3) �2 + 14� + 49 ≥ 0 7) 10�2 − 19� + 6 ≤ 0
4) 10�2 − 19� + 6 ≤ 0 8) �2 − 2� + 1 < 0
Solving Quadratic Inequalities Graphically
In order to use graphs to solve quadratic inequalities, it is necessary to understand the
nature of quadratic functions and their graphs.

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The graph of a quadratic function has both its ends going upward or downward
depending on whether a is positive or negative. From different graphs you can observe
that the graph of a quadratic function
� (�) = ��2 + �� + �
i. Crosses the x-axis twice, if �2 – 4�� > 0.
ii. Touches the x-axis at a point, if �2 – 4�� = 0.
iii. Does not touch the x-axis at all, if �2 – 4�� < 0.
To solve a quadratic inequality graphically, find the values of � for which the part of the graph of
the corresponding quadratic function is above the x-axis, below the x-axis or on the x-axis. Consider
the following examples.
Example 5 Solve the quadratic inequality�2 – 3x + 2 < 0, graphically.
Solution: Begin by drawing the graph of f (x) = �2 – 3x + 2. Some values for x and f (x) are given in
the table below and the corresponding graph is given in Graph of f (x) = �2 – 3x + 2 below.
Complete the table first.

Graph of f (x) = x2 – 3x + 2
From the graph, � (�) = 0 when � = 1 and when � = 2 . On the other hand, � (�) > 0 when
� < 1 and when � > 2 and � (�) < 0 when � lies between 1 and 2.
3 3 1 3
This inequality could be tested by setting � = 2, giving �( 2 ) =− 4. So � 2
<0
It follows that the solution set of �2 – 3� + 2 < 0 consists of all real numbers greater than 1 and
less than 2 . That is, �. � = {� : 1 < � < 2} = (1 , 2).

Example 6 Solve the inequality x2 + 4x + 5 > 0, graphically.

Solution: Make a table of values and complete the table for some selected values of
x and f (x) as in the table below and sketch the corresponding graph.

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

As shown in the Graph of f (x) = x2 + 4x + 5 above, the graph of � (�) = �2 + 4� + 5 does not
cross the x-axis but lies above the x-axis. Thus, the solution set of this inequality consists of all real
numbers. So, �. � = ( − ∞, ∞).

Note that, if you use the process of completing the square, you obtain
�2 + 4� + 5 > 0 ⇒ �2 + 4� > – 5
�2 + 4� + 4 > – 5 + 4
� + 2 2 > –1
Since the square of any real numbers is non-negative, � + 2 2 > − 1 is true for all real numbers
x. Based on the above information, could you show that the solution set of the inequality x2 + 4x +
5 < 0 is the empty set? Why?

Example 7 Solve the inequality – x2 + 2x + 3 < 0, graphically.

Solution: Make a table of selected values for x and f (x). The graph passes through
(0, 3) and (–1, 0) as shown in Figure 3.30.

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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

The graph of � (�) = 2� – �2 + 3 crosses the �-axis at � = –1 and � = 3. So, the solution set
of this inequality is �. � = {�| � < – 1 �� � > 3}

Simplification of rational expressions and solving rational equations

1.6.3. Simplification of rational expressions

Definition
�(�)
A rational expression is the quotient of two polynomials �(�) and �(�) ,
�(�)
where �(�) ≠ 0. �(�) is called the numerator and �(�) is called the
denominator.

Example Which of the following are rational expressions?

�−2 1 �−2
a. 2�2−3�+4
b. �2−1 c. 2�2−3�+4 d. 1 − 5�

Solution All except d are rational expressions.

Recall, a non-zero constant is a polynomial of degree 0.

Steps to find the domain of a rational expression:

1. Set the denominator of the expression equal to zero and solve.
2. The domain is the set of all real numbers except those values found in step 1.

Example Find the domain of each of the following rational expressions:

19 �� −�
a.
3�
b. ��−��+��
Solution

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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
a. Set the denominator equal to zero and solve: 3� = 0 ⇒ � = 0. Thus, the domain is {� : �
is a real number and � ≠ 0} or ℝ \ {0}.
b. Set the denominator equal to zero and solve:
�2 − 7� + 10 0 (factor)
� − 5 � − 2 = 0 (Set each factor equal to 0 and solve)
(� − 5 = 0 �� � − 2 = 0
� = 5 or � = 2
Thus, the domain is {� : � is a real number and � ≠ 2, � ≠ 5} = ℝ \{2, 5}

Fundamental Property of Fractions

= .
�� �
If �, � and � are real numbers with �, � ≠ 0, then
�� �

Definition
We say that a rational expression is reduced to lowest terms (or in its lowest
terms or in simplest form), if the numerator and denominator do not have
any common factor other than 1.
To simplify a rational expression:
1. Find the domain.
2. Factorize the numerator and denominator completely.
3. Divide the numerator and denominator by any common factor (i.e. cancel like terms).

Example Simplify the following.

2�2+6�+4 �4+18�2 +81
a.
4�2−12�−16
b. �2 +9
Solution
a. The universal set is ℝ \ { − 1, 4}.
2�2+6�+4 2 �+2 (�+1) (�+2)
Thus, 4�2−12�−16
=
4 �−4 (�+1)
=
2(�−4)
, for � ≠ 4 and � ≠− 1

�4 +18�2+81 �2+9 (�2 +9)

b.
�2+9
= �2+9
= (�2 + 9) , for all � ∈ ℝ

Addition and subtraction of rational expressions

Let �(�), �(�), and �(�) be polynomials such that �(�) ≠ 0 , then

�(�) �(�) � � +�(�) �(�) �(�) � � − �(�)

�(�)
+
�(�)
=
�(�)
and �(�)
− �(�)
=
�(�)

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COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND COMPUTATIONAL SCINECE
DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Example For each rational expression, state the universal set and simplify.

�−5 �+5 2�−3 −�+6

a. �+1
+
�+1
b. �2+6�+9 − �2 +6�+9

Solution
�−5 �+5 �−5 +(�+5) 2�
a. �+1
+
�+1
=
�+1
=
�+1
for � ≠− 1
2�−3 −�+6 2�−3 − −�+6 3�−9
b. �2 +6�+9
− �2+6�+9
= �2+6�+9
= �2+6�+9 , for � ≠− 3

Steps to add and subtract rational expressions with unlike denominators:

1. Factorize the denominators completely.
2. Find the LCM.
3. Build each rational expression into an equivalent expression with the denominator equal to
the LCM.
4. Add and subtract the numerators and write the result over the common denominator.
5. Simplify the numerator and factorize it to see if you can reduce it.
Example 6 Perform the indicated operations and simplify.
2 �−3 3 1 5
a. 3 + 3�+6 + �2−4 b. 2�−1 − �+2
− 2�2 +3�−2

b. Solution
a. We first find the LCM by factorizing each denominator:
3 3 �−2 (�+2) 2(�−2) 3(�−3) 9�2+5�−49
.
1 3 �−2 (�+2)
+ 3 �−2 (�+2) + 3 �−2 (�+2) = 3�2−12
, � ≠ − 2 ��� � ≠ 2
b. Notice that, 2�2 + 3� – 2 = (2� – 1)(� + 2). Thus, the LCM is (2� – 1)(� + 2) and
3 1 5 3 1 5
− − 2 = − −
2� − 1 �+2 2� + 3� − 2 2� − 1 �+2 2� − 1 � + 2
3 �+2 2� − 1 5
= − −
2� − 1 � + 2 2� − 1 � + 2 2� − 1 � + 2
1 1
= 2�−1 for � ≠ − 2 and � ≠ 2 .

Multiplication of rational expressions

If �(�), �(�), �(�) and �(�) are polynomials such that � � ≠ 0 , � � ≠ 0 then
�(�) �(�) � � �(�)
∙ =
�(�) �(�) �(�)�(�)
Steps to multiply rational expressions:
1. Factorize the numerators and denominators completely.
2. Divide out all the common factors.
3. Multiply numerator with numerator and denominator with denominator to get the
answer.
Example Evaluate and simplify:

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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
5�+5 �2 −4�+4 5(�+1) �2−4�+4 5 �−2
a. �−2 �2 −1
= �−2
∙ �−1 �+1
= �−1
for � ≠− 1, 1 and 2

Division of rational expressions

If �(�), �(�), �(�) and �(�) are polynomials such that � � ≠ 0 , � � ≠ 0 then
�(�) �(�) �(�) �(�)
÷ = ∙
�(�) �(�) �(�) �(�)
Example Perform the following operations and simplify:
36�2−38�+16 4�2 −12�+9
a. 3�2 +13�−10
÷ 2�2+7�−15

Solution
First, you have to invert the second fraction and multiply. Then factorize each expression and
simplify.
36�2 − 38� + 16 2�2 + 7� − 15 4 3� − 2 (3� − 2) 2� − 3 (� + 5)
2 ∙ 2 = ∙
3� + 13� − 10 4� − 12� + 9 (3x − 2)(x + 5) (2x − 3)( 2x − 3)
4 (3�−2) 2 3
= (2x−3)
, for � ≠− 5, 3 and 2
.

Decomposition of Rational Expressions into Partial Fractions

So far, you have been combining rational expressions using addition, multiplication, subtraction
and division rules. Next, you will consider the reverse process decomposing a rational expression
into simpler ones.

2 3
We obtain the sum of fractions �−2
and �+1 as follows:
2 3 5� − 4
+ =
�−2 �+1 (� − 2 )(� + 1)
5�− 4
The reverse process of writing (�−2 )(�+1)
as a sum or difference of simple fractions (fractions with
numerators of lesser degree than their denominators) is frequently important in calculus. Each such
simple fraction is called a partial fraction, and the process itself is called decomposition into partial
fractions.

Definition 2.3
�(�)
In a rational expression , if the degree of �(�) is less than that of �(�), then
�(�)
�(�)
is called a proper rational expression. Otherwise it is called improper.
�(�)

2�32 +10�2−3�+1
Example 9 Express �+3
as a sum of a polynomial and a proper rational fraction.

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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS
Solution Using long division,
2�3 + 10�2 – 3� + 1 = (� + 3)(2�2 + 4� – 15) + 46.

2�32 +10�2 −3�+1 46

Thus, �+3
= 2x2 + 4x − 15 + �+3

Moreover, you need to rely on the following definition to do the partial fraction decomposition:

Definition
Two polynomials of equal degree are equal to each other, if and only if the
coefficients of terms of like degree are equal.

Solving rational equations

Definition 2.5

= 0 where
�(�)
A rational equation is an equation that can be reduced to the form
�(�)
�(�) and � � are polynomials and � (�) ≠ 0.

To solve rational equations, you follow the following steps:

1. Factorize all the denominators and determine their LCM.
2. Restrict the values of the variable that make the LCM equal to 0.
3. Multiply both sides of the rational equation by the LCM and simplify.
4. Solve the resulting equation.
5. Check the answers against the restricted values in step 2. Any such value must be excluded
from the solution.
Example Solve each of the following equations:

2 3 � 4 �2+16
a.
�+1
= �−2 b. �+4 − �−4 = �2−16

Solution
a. Your restrictions are � ≠ 1 and � ≠ 2 . Now, multiply both sides of the equation by their
LCM (� + 1)(� − 2) :
2 �+1 �−2 3 �+1 �−2
�+1 1
= �−2 1
2(� − 2) = 3(� + 1) ⇒ � = − 7
This does not contradict our restrictions that � ≠ − 1 and � ≠ 2 .
Thus, our solution set is { − 7}.
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DEPARTMENT OF MATHEMATICS

b. Your restrictions are � ≠− 4 and � ≠ 4 . Now multiply both sides by the

LCM (� − 4)(� + 4) , which will get rid of the denominators:
� � − 4 − 4 � + 4 = �2 + 16 ⇒ �2 − 8� − 16 = �2 + 16 ⇒− 8� = 32 ⇒ � = − 4
This is against our restriction � ≠ 4, and must be excluded from our solution.
Since there are no other values in our solution, the solution is ∅.

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