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Solving Rational Inequalities

Rational inequalities involve inequalities that include rational functions, requiring a systematic approach to find critical points, analyze signs, and graph solutions. The process includes finding critical points by setting the denominator to zero, determining the sign of the inequality across intervals, and graphing the solution set in interval notation. Applications of rational inequalities extend to cost analysis, resource allocation, and decision-making in various fields.

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30 views9 pages

Solving Rational Inequalities

Rational inequalities involve inequalities that include rational functions, requiring a systematic approach to find critical points, analyze signs, and graph solutions. The process includes finding critical points by setting the denominator to zero, determining the sign of the inequality across intervals, and graphing the solution set in interval notation. Applications of rational inequalities extend to cost analysis, resource allocation, and decision-making in various fields.

Uploaded by

lasor121993
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Solving Rational

Inequalities
Rational inequalities are a type of mathematical inequality that
involve rational functions. Solving these inequalities requires a
systematic approach to find the critical points, analyze the sign of the
expression, and graph the solution set.

by John Rey Rosal


What is a Rational
Inequality?
1 Rational Function 2 Rational Inequality
A rational function is a A rational inequality is an
function that can be inequality that involves a
expressed as the ratio of rational function, such as
two polynomial functions. f(x) > g(x) or f(x) ≤ g(x).

3 Examples
(x-2)/(x+1) > 0, (x-3)/(x-1) ≤ 2
Steps to Solve Rational Inequalities
Step 1 1
Find the critical points by setting the denominator of
the rational function equal to zero and solving for x.
2 Step 2
Determine the sign of the inequality on each interval
between the critical points.
Step 3 3
Graph the solution set and express the final answer in
interval notation.
Finding the Critical Points
Critical Points Solving for Critical Points Example
Critical points are the values of x Set the denominator equal to zero For the inequality (x-2)/(x+1) > 0,
where the denominator of the and solve for x to find the critical the critical point is x = -1.
rational function is equal to zero. points.
Checking the Sign of the Inequality
Interval Analysis Test Points Example

Divide the number line into intervals Choose a test point within each For (x-2)/(x+1) > 0, the inequality is
based on the critical points. interval and evaluate the inequality. positive on the intervals x < -1 and x
> 2.
Determine the sign of the inequality The sign of the inequality will be the
on each interval. same for all points in that interval.
Graphing the Solution Set

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3


Plot the critical points on the Determine the sign of the inequality Shade the intervals where the
number line. on each interval. inequality is true.
Simplifying the Solution Set

Parentheses
Used to indicate open intervals where the endpoints are not included.

Brackets
Used to indicate closed intervals where the endpoints are included.

Union
Used to combine multiple intervals into a single solution set.
Applications of Rational Inequalities
Cost Analysis Resource Allocation Decision Making

Rational inequalities can be used to Rational inequalities can help Solving rational inequalities can aid
determine the range of acceptable optimize the distribution of limited in making informed decisions in
costs or prices for a product or resources, such as materials or fields like finance, engineering, and
service. labor, to meet constraints. business.
Example Solution
1 Step 1
Find the critical points by setting the denominator
equal to zero and solving for x.

2 Step 2
Determine the sign of the inequality on each interval
between the critical points.

3 Step 3
Graph the solution set and express the final answer in
interval notation.

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