Make notes for this One-Variable Equations & Inequalities

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Certainly! Here are concise notes on One-Variable Equations and Inequalities:


One-Variable Equations

Definition: An equation involving only one variable where the objective is to find the value of that variable that makes the equation true.

General Form:

  • \( ax + b = c \)
    • Where \( a, b, c \) are constants, and \( x \) is the variable.

Solving Steps:

  1. Isolate the variable: Use inverse operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
  2. Simplify both sides: Combine like terms if necessary.
  3. Check your solution: Substitute back into the original equation to ensure both sides are equal.

Example:

  • Solve \( 2x + 3 = 11 \)
    • Subtract 3: \( 2x = 8 \)
    • Divide by 2: \( x = 4 \)

One-Variable Inequalities

Definition: An inequality compares two expressions involving one variable and determines the range of values that satisfy the inequality.

General Forms:

  • \( ax + b < c \)
  • \( ax + b \leq c \)
  • \( ax + b > c \)
  • \( ax + b \geq c \)

Solving Steps:

  1. Isolate the variable: Same as equations, use inverse operations to get the variable on one side.
  2. Flip inequality sign: When multiplying or dividing by a negative number, flip the inequality sign.
  3. Express the solution: Either as an interval or using set notation.

Example:

  • Solve \( 3x - 5 > 4 \)
    • Add 5: \( 3x > 9 \)
    • Divide by 3: \( x > 3 \)
    • Solution: \( (3, \infty) \)

Graphing Inequalities:

  • Open Circle: Represents \( < \) or \( > \) (not inclusive).
  • Closed Circle: Represents \( \leq \) or \( \geq \) (inclusive).
  • Shading: Indicates the solution set. Shade to the left for \( < \) or \( \leq \), and to the right for \( > \) or \( \geq \).

Key Points to Remember:

  • Make sure to perform the same operation on both sides of the equation/inequality.
  • Always check your final solution by substituting it back.
  • When representing your solution graphically, be mindful of whether the endpoints are included.

These notes cover the basic principles and steps for solving one-variable equations and inequalities. Let me know if you need further details or examples!