Inequalities Math Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 2

medium
Solve −3x+4≤13-3x + 4 \leq 13.

Solution

  1. 1
    Subtract 4 from both sides: −3x≤9-3x \leq 9.
  2. 2
    Divide both sides by −3-3 and reverse the inequality: x≥−3x \geq -3.
  3. 3
    The inequality reverses because we divided by a negative number.

Answer

x≥−3x \geq -3
When multiplying or dividing an inequality by a negative number, the direction of the inequality must be reversed. This is the most common mistake students make with inequalities.

About Inequalities

Mathematical statements that compare two expressions using symbols like <<, >>, ≤\leq, or ≥\geq, indicating that one quantity is less than, greater than, or not equal to another. Unlike equations, inequalities describe a range of possible solutions.

Learn more about Inequalities →

More Inequalities Examples

Example 1 easy

Solve [formula].

Example 3 easy

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Example 4 hard

Solve [formula].

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