There are signs in mathematics that are used to express equations of inequality. An equation might dictate that that a given set of numbers is greater than another set. The sign which dictates this is expressed as “>”.

The following equation is indicating that 5 is greater than 3:

5 > 3

The following equation is indicating that the unknown “n” is less than 7.

n < 7

When working with these equations you treat them as you would an equation with an equal sign to solve for the unknown.

n + 7 < 14

n + 7 – 7 < 14 – 7

n < 7

The unknown quantity “n” is less than 7.

Negative Unknown

At times as you work through an equation, you will be left with a negative unknown.

(example: - y = 20) When this occurs, you must divide both sides by "- 1" and reverse the inequality sign.

- y > 20

becomes:

y < - 20

Here is another example:

6 - y > 4

- y > - 2 (as we subtracted 6 from both sides)

y < 2 (divide both sides by "- 1" and reverse the inequality sign)

In order for 6 - y to be greater than 4, "y" would have to be less than 2.

6 - 1 > 4 but 6 - 3 < 4

Peer Support

If you are having difficulty with the subject matter, there is always a great deal of support available to you from other members through the Forum. Simply do a search for the material you need help with (math, algebra, integers, etc.) Members are very supportive and helpful. Don't hesitate to post any questions, or provide answers to others seeking assistance.

Inequalities

Work through the following tests to make sure you are comfortable with the material.

Practice Exercise:

Answer the following questions by solving for “n” or answering the questions.

1) n +7*3 < 65

2) 7 – 4 + n > 31

3) 15/3 + n < 7*4

4) 8 + n > 44/11 + 63

5) 5 (5+n) < 100

6) 7 n + 42 > 23+76-1

7) 8 x 5 +6 < n – 3

8) Write an equation indicating 2 is greater than n

9) What does the following equation mean? n < 1

10) Write an equation indicating n is greater than 7

Answers:

1) n < 44

2) n > 28

3) n < 23

4) n > 59

5) n < 15

6) n > 8

7) 49 < n

8) 2 > n or n < 2

9) n is less than 1

10) n > 7 or 7 < n