y

Unit 3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4
x
-1

-2

SOLVING INEQUALITIES
Unit Outcomes:
After completing this unit, you should be able to:
know and apply methods and procedures in solving problems on inequalities
involving absolute value.
know and apply methods for solving systems of linear inequalities.
apply different techniques for solving quadratic inequalities.

Main Contents
3.1 Inequalities involving absolute value
3.2 Systems of linear inequalities in two variables
3.3 Quadratic inequalities
Key Terms
Summary
Review Exercises
Mathematics Grade 10

INTRODUCTION
Recall that open statements of the form ax +b > 0, ax + b < 0, ax + b < 0 and ax + b > 0
for a ≠ 0 are inequalities with solutions usually involving intervals.
In this unit, you will study methods of solving inequalities involving absolute values,
system of linear inequalities in two variables and quadratic inequalities. You will also
learn about the applications of these methods in solving practical problems involving
inequalities.

3.1 INEQUALITIES INVOLVING ABSOLUTE

VALUE
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) = {x : 5 < x < 9 and x∈ ℝ}
[5, 9] = {x : 5 ≤ x ≤ 9 and x∈ℝ}
In general, if a and b are fixed real numbers with a < b, then
[a, b] = {x: a ≤ x ≤ b and x∈ ℝ } (a, b) = { x: a < x < b and x ∈ ℝ}
( −∞, a ] = { x: x ≤ a and x ∈ ℝ} (a, ∞)= { x: x > a and x ∈ ℝ}
Note: The symbol "∞" is used to mean positive infinity and "−∞" is used to mean
negative infinity.
Graphically, [a, b] is Graphically, (a, b) is
a≤x≤b a<x<b
( )
a b
a b Figure 3.2
Figure 3.1
Graphically, ( − ∞ , a] is Graphically, (a, ∞) is
x ≤a x>a
] (
a a
Figure 3.3 Figure 3.4

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

ACTIVITY 3.1
1 Discuss the 3-methods of describing sets: the complete listing
method, the partial listing method and the set-builder method.
2 Give examples for each of the methods used for describing a set.
3 Describe each of the following sets using any one of the methods.
a The set of numbers − 3, − 2, 1, 0, 2, 3.
b The set of all negative multiples of 2.
c The set of natural numbers greater than 6 and less than 50.
4 Describe each of the following sets using set-builder method:
a { . . . , –3, − 2, –1, 0, 1, 2, 3, . . . } b { 0, 3, 6, 9, . . . }
c [ − 3, 5) d [ 2, ∞ )
5 Write each of the following using intervals:
a { x: x∈ℝ\ {0}} b { x: –1 ≤ x ≤ 2 and x∈ℝ}
c { x : 0.2 < x ≤ 0.8 and x∈ ℝ} d { x : x∈ ℝ and x ≠ –1}
6 Find all values of x satisfying the following inequalities:
a 2x – 1 < 7 b 4<1–x<5
Look at the number line given below.
A C B
–4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 Number line
Figure 3.5
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.

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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 3.6 below.
|x|
x 0
Figure 3.6

Definition 3.1
If x is a real number, then the absolute value of x, denoted by x , is
defined by
 x, if x ≥ 0
x =
− x, if x < 0

Example 1
4  4 4 4
a 25 = 25 because 25 > 0 b − = −−  = because − < 0
5  5 5 5

ACTIVITY 3.2
1 Why is it always true that for any real number x, x  ≥ 0?
2 Evaluate each of the following expressions:
a −3 b 0 c − 5
d −3 −2 e 1− 2 f 3− 5
3 If x = –2 and y = 3, then evaluate each of the following:
a 6x + y b 6x + y c 2 x − 3y
4 Verify each of the following using examples:

a x − y = y − x b 2 x − 3 y = 3y − 2x c x2 = x
x x
d x y = xy e =
y y
Geometrically, the equation x = 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 points that are 5 units from the point corresponding to zero, along one
to the left and the other to the right. So, x = 5 has two solutions, x = 5 and x = –5.

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Theorem 3.1 Solutions of the equation x = a

For any real number a, the equation |x|= a has
i two solutions x = a and x = –a, if a > 0;
ii one solution, x = 0, if a = 0; and
iii no solution, if a < 0.

Example 2 Solve each of the following absolute value equations:

2
a 3x + 5 = 2 b x+1 =0 c 2x − 1= –3
3
Solution:
a  3x + 5  = 2 is equivalent to 3x + 5 = –2 or 3x + 5 = 2
⇒ 3x + 5 – 5 = –2 – 5 or 3x + 5 – 5 = 2 – 5
⇒ 3x = –7 or 3x = –3
7
⇒ x= − or x = –1
3
7
Therefore, x = − and x = –1 are the two solutions.
3
2
b We know that x  = 0 if and only if x = 0. Therefore, x + 1 = 0 is
3
2 2
equivalent to x + 1 = 0. Hence, x = − 1
3 3
3
⇒ x = − is the solution.
2
c Since x  ≥ 0 for all x ∈ ℝ, the given equation 2x − 1 = − 3 has no solution.
As discussed above | x| = 4 means x = –4 or x = 4. Hence, on the number line, the point
corresponding to x is 4 units away from the point corresponding to 0. We see that in
|x| ≤ 4, the distance between the point corresponding to x and the point corresponding to
0 is less than 4 or equal to 4. It follows that |x| ≤ 4 is equivalent to –4 ≤ x ≤ 4.
We have the following generalization.

Theorem 3.2 Solution of x < a and x ≤ a

For any real number a > 0,

i the solution of the inequality x < a is – a < x < a.
ii the solution of the inequality x ≤ a is – a ≤ x ≤ a.

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Example 3 Solve each of the following absolute value inequalities:

a 2x – 5 < 3 b 3 – 5x  ≤ 1
Solution:
a 2x – 5 < 3 is equivalent to –3 < 2x – 5 < 3,
⇒ − 3 < 2x – 5 and 2x – 5 < 3
⇒ − 3 + 5 < 2x – 5 + 5 and 2x – 5 + 5 < 3 + 5
⇒ 2 < 2x and 2x < 8
⇒ 1 < x and x < 4 that is, 1 < x < 4
Therefore, the solution set is {x: 1 < x < 4} = (1, 4)
We can represent the solution set on the number line as follows:
( )
–2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6

b 3 – 5x  ≤ 1 is equivalent to –1 ≤ 3 – 5x ≤ 1
⇒ –1 ≤ 3 – 5x and 3 – 5x ≤ 1
⇒ –1 – 3 ≤ 3 – 3 – 5x and 3 – 3 – 5x ≤ 1 – 3
⇒ – 4 ≤ –5x and –5x ≤ – 2
⇒ 5x ≤ 4 and 2 ≤ 5x
4 2 2 4
⇒ x≤ and x ≥ that is, ≤ x ≤
5 5 5 5
 2 4 2 4
Therefore, the solution set is  x : ≤ x ≤ =  , 
 5 5 5 5
Note: In | x| < a, if a < 0 the inequality |x| < a has no solution.

Theorem 3.3 Solution of x > a and x ≥ a

For any real number a, if a > 0, then

i the solution of the inequality |x| > a is x < – a or x > a.
ii the solution of the inequality x  ≥ a is x ≤ – a or x ≥ a.

Example 4 Solve each of the following inequalities:

3
a 5 + 2x  > 6 b − 2x ≥ 1 c 3− x > − 2
5

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Solution: According to Theorem 3.3,

a 5 + 2x  > 6 implies 5 + 2x < – 6 or 5 + 2x > 6
⇒ 5 – 5 + 2x < – 6 – 5 or 5 – 5 + 2x > 6 – 5
⇒ 2x < – 11 or 2x > 1
−11 1
⇒ x< or x >
2 2
 11 1
Therefore, the solution set is  x : x < − or x >  .
 2 2
(Try to represent this solution on the number line)
3 3 3
b − 2 x ≥ 1 implies − 2 x ≤ −1 or − 2 x ≥ 1
5 5 5
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Hence, − 2 x ≤ −1 or − 2 x ≥ 1 gives − − 2x ≤ −1− or − − 2x ≥ 1−
5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
−8 2
⇒ –2x ≤ or − 2x ≥
5 5
8 2
⇒ ≤ 2 x or − ≥ 2 x
5 5
4 1
⇒ x≥ or x ≤ −
5 5
 1 4
Therefore, the solution set is  x : x ≤ − or x ≥  .
 5 5
c By definition, 3 − x = x − 3 ≥ 0. So, | 3–x| > –2 is true for all real numbers x.
Therefore, the solution set is ℝ .

Group Work 3.1

1 Given that a < 0 < b, express the following without absolute
value.
b
a a − b b ab − a c
a
2 For any real number a, show that
a a ≤ a
Hint: If a ≥ 0, then |a| = a. So, a ≤ |a|.
If a < 0, then |a| > 0. Compare a and |a|

b − a ≤ a ≤ a
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Mathematics Grade 10

3 For any real numbers x and y, show that

a x+y ≤ x + y
Hint: Start from |x + y|2 = (x + y)2 and expand. Then use 2b above.
b x − y ≥ x − y
4 Solve each of the following
3x − 1 1
a +x ≤ 7+ x b −2 ≥ 8 − 4 x + 6
2 2
1
c x − 2 >1 d 2x − 1 < x + 3
4

Exercise 3.1
1 Simplify and write each of the following using intervals:
a { x : x∈ ℝ and x ≠ –2 } b { x : –1 ≤ x – 2 ≤ 2 }
c { x: x + 3 > 2 } d { x : 5x − 9 ≤ 9 }
e { x: 2x + 3 ≥ –5x} f {x: 2x –1 < x < 3}
2 Solve each of the following inequalities:
8x − 3 1
a 2x – 5 ≥ 3x b 3x + 1 < c t + 2 > 3 (5 − t )
2 4
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 x = − and y = , then evaluate the following:
3 5
3x − 2y
a 6x + 5y  b 3x  – 10y  c  3x – 10y  d
x+y
5 Solve each of the following absolute value equations:
a 3x + 6  = 7 b 5x – 3  = 9 c x – 6 = –6
3 1 1
d 7 – 2x  = 0 e  6 – 3x  + 5 = 14 f x+ =
4 8 2
6 Solve each of the following absolute value inequalities and express their solution
sets in intervals:
2 1 1
a 3 – 5x  ≤ 1 b 5x  – 2 < 8 c x− ≥
3 9 3
d  6 – 2x  + 3 > 8 e  3x + 5  ≤ 0 f x–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 ax + b< c b ax + b≤ c c ax + b> c d ax + b≥ c

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

3.2 SYSTEMS OF LINEAR INEQUALITIES IN

TWO VARIABLES
Recall that a first degree (linear) equation in two variables has the form
ax + by = c
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
2 x − y = 7

 x + 5 y = −2
is a system of two linear equations. What is its solution?

ACTIVITY 3.3
1 What can you say about the solution set of two linear equations
if their graphs do not intersect?
2 Find the solutions of each of the following systems of equations, graphically:
 x − y = −2  x+ y = 2  x + 2y = 4
a  b  c 
x + y = 6 2 x + 2 y = 8 2 x + 4 y = 8
3 Find three different ordered pairs which belong to R where
R = {(x, y): y ≤ x + 1}.
4 Draw the graph of R given in Question 3 above.
5 Draw the graphs of each of the following relations:
a R = {(x , y): x ≥ y and y > x – 1} b R = {(x, y): y ≤ x + 1 and y >1 – x}.
6 Solve each of the following systems of inequalities and write your answer in
interval notation:
 x ≥ −1
 x − y < 3
a x ≤ 3 b 
y ≥ 0  x≥2

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.
x − y = 3
Example 1 Find the solution set of the system of equations  .
x + 2 y = 0

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Solution: First draw the graphs of x – y = 3 and x + 2y = 0 as shown below.

y
5
4
3
x + 2y = 0 x–y=3
2
1
x
-4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5
-1 •
-2 (2, -1)
-3

Figure 3.7
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:
 y ≥ −3 x + 2

y < x − 2
Solution: First draw the graph of one of the boundary lines, y = –3x + 2,
corresponding to the first inequality.
The graph of y ≥ –3x + 2 consists of points on or above the line y = –3x + 2 as
shown in Figure 3.8a. 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, y = x – 2, corresponding to the second inequality. The graph of
y < x – 2 consists of points below the line y = x – 2. Points on the line are excluded
as shown in Figure 3.8b.
y y
5 5
4 4
3 3
y ≥ -3x + 2
2 2
1 1
x x
3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5 3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5
-1 -1
-2 -2 y<x-2
-3 -3

a b
Figure 3.8

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

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 3.9b.
y y
5 5
4 4
3 3
y ≥ -3x + 2
2 2
1 1
x x
3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5 3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5
-1 -1
-2
y ≥ -3x + 2
-2
y<x-2
-3 -3
-4 -4
y<x-2

a b
Figure 3.9

 y ≥ −3x + 2
The solution set of  is shown by the cross-shaded region in the
y < x − 2
diagram.
 y = −3x + 2
Solving  , we get –3x + 2 = x – 2
y = x − 2
Therefore, x = 1 and y = –1
So, x > 1, –3x + 2 ≤ y < x – 2
Hence, the solution set of the system is expressed as
{( x, y ) : −3x + 2 ≤ y < x − 2 and 1 < x < ∞}
Example 3 Find the solution of each of the following systems of linear inequalities,
graphically:
x + y < 3 y + x > 0
 
a x ≥ 0 b y − x ≤1
y ≥ 0 x ≤ 2
 
Solution:
a Here, our objective is to determine the set of points whose coordinates (x, y)
satisfy all three of these conditions. To do so, let us draw each boundary line
as shown below. The points satisfying the conditions x > 0 are those lying to
the right of the y-axis as shown in Figure 3.10a.

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Mathematics Grade 10

4
y 4
y 4
y
3 3 3
2 2
x>0 y>0 x+y<32
1 1 1
x x x
3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4
-1 -1 -1
-2 -2 -2

a b c
Figure 3.10

The points (x, y) with y > 0 are the points that lie above the x-axis as shown in
Figure 3.10b. The points (x, y) with x + y < 3 is the set of points lying below the
line x + y = 3. Points on the line are excluded.
Now, draw the graph of the three inequalities x ≥ 0, y ≥ 0 and x + y < 3, using the
same coordinate system, taking only the intersection of the three regions.
y
4

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

-2

Figure 3.11

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 3.11. That is, the set of (x, y) such that x ∈ [0, 3) and y ∈ [0, 3 – x)
b First, draw the graph of the boundary line x + y = 0 (or y = − x) for the first
inequality. The graph of x + y > 0 consists of points above the line.
Points on the line are excluded as shown in Figure 3.12a.
4
y 4y
y 4
y
–x=1
3 3 3 x=2
2 2 2
y+x>0 x≤2
1 1 y-x≤1 x 1
x
x
-3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4
-1 -1 -1
-2 -2 -2

a b c
Figure 3.12

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

Next, draw the graph of the boundary line y – x = 1 for the second inequality. The
graph of y – x ≤ 1 consists of points on and below the line y – x = 1 as shown in
Figure 3.12b.
Finally, draw the graph of the boundary line x = 2 for the third inequality. The
points (x, y) satisfying the condition x ≤ 2 are those lying on and to the left of the
line x = 2 as shown in Figure 3.12c.
Now, draw the graph of the three inequalities using the same coordinate
system as shown in Figure 3.13a.
y y−x=1
4 4
y

3 3 • (2, 3)
2
2 y-x≤1
 1 1 1
- 2, 2 
1   •
x
-3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4
x -1
3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 -2 • (2, -2)
-1
-3
-2 y+x>0
x≤2 x=2 y+x=0
-3 a b
Figure 3.13
Because there are infinite solutions to the system, the elements cannot be listed.
But the graph is easy to describe. The solution is the triangular region with
 1 1
vertices  − ,  , ( 2, 3) and ( 2, − 2 ) , except those points on the line y + x = 0, as
 2 2
shown in Figure 3.13b.

ACTIVITY 3.4
1 By observing the graph of the inequality given in Figure 3.13b,
name at least 10 ordered pairs that satisfy the inequality.
2 If R = {(x, y): y + x > 0, y – x ≤1 and x ≤ 2}, what is the domain and range of R?
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?

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Mathematics Grade 10

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, x tables require 2x hrs.
Similarly, y chairs require 3y hrs on machine A. On machine B, x tables require
4x hrs and y chairs require 2y 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: 2x + 3y ≤ 12
From machine B: 4x + 2y ≤ 16
Also, x ≥ 0 and y ≥ 0 since x and y are numbers of tables and chairs.
Hence, you obtain a system of linear inequalities given as follows:
 2 x + 3 y ≤ 12
 4 x + 2 y ≤ 16


x ≥ 0
 y ≥ 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.
8 y
2x + 3y = 12 7
6
5
(0, 4)
4 •
3
(3, 2)
2 •
1
(4, 0)
• • x
-5 -4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
-1
(0, 0)
-2
4x + 2y = 16
-3
-4
Figure 3.14

The profit made is Birr 12 on a table, so Birr 12x on x tables and Birr 10 on a
chair, so Birr 10y on y chairs. The profit function P is given by P = 12x + 10y.
The values of x and y which maximize or minimize the profit function on such a
system are usually found at vertices of the solution region.
Hence, from the graph, you have the coordinates of each vertex as shown in
Figure 3.14.
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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

The profit: P = 12x + 10y at each vertex is found to be:

At (0, 0), P = 12 (0) + 10 (0) = 0
At (0, 4), P = 12 (0) + 10 (4) = 40
At (3, 2), P = 12 (3) + 10 (2) = 56
At (4, 0), P = 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.

Group Work 3.2

1 Find the solutions of each of the following systems of linear
inequalities graphically:
y + x ≥ 0 x + y < 1
 
a y − x ≥ 0 b  2 x − y > −1
y ≤ 3  y − 3 x ≥ −3
 
2 Let R = {(x, y): y > x, y > – x and y ≤ 3} and
r = {(x, y): x + y < 1, 2x – y > – 1 and y – 3x > –3}
Using Question 1 above, find the domain and range of the relations R and r.

Exercise 3.2
1 Draw the graphs of each of the following relations:
a R = {( x , y) : x – y ≥ 1 and 2x + y < 3}
b R = {( x , y) : x ≤ y – 1 and y – 2x > 2}
c R = {( x, y) : x > y ; x > 0 and y – x < 1}
d R = {(x , y) : x + y ≥ 0 ; y ≥ 0 and x + y < 1}
2 Solve each of the following system of linear inequalities graphically:
 y ≤ 2x + 3 3x + y < 5  y ≤ 1− x
  
a y − x ≥ 0 b x > 0 c  y > x+2
y > 0 x + y < 6  y>0
  
 x ≥ −1 x > 0
 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 
d y ≤ 2 e  f y > 0
 y ≥ x −1 0 ≤ y ≤ 1 x + y < 4
 

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Mathematics Grade 10

3 Describe each of the following shaded regions with a system of linear inequalities:
2x – 3y + 6 = 0
y
4
y–x = 2
3 4
y
3
y=x
2
2
1
1
x
-3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 x
-1 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4
-1
-2
-2
-3 -3

a b
4 y y
4
3
3
2
2
1
x 1
-3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4 x
-1 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 4
-1
-2
y+x= 2 -2
-3 y–x=1
-3 x=3

c d
Figure 3.15

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

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3.3 QUADRATIC INEQUALITIES

In Unit 2 of Grade 9 mathematics, you have learnt how to solve quadratic equations.
\

(Recall that equations of the form ax2 + bx + c = 0, a ≠ 0 are quadratic equations.)

Can similar methods be used to solve quadratic inequalities?

Definition 3.2
An inequality that can be reduced to any one of the following forms:
ax2 + bx + c ≤ 0 or ax2 + bx + c < 0,
ax2 + bx + c ≥ 0 or ax2 + bx + c > 0,
where a, b and c are constants and a ≠ 0, is called a quadratic inequality.

For example x2 – 3x + 2 < 0, x2 + 1 ≥ 0, x2 + x ≤ 0 and x2 − 4 > 0 are all quadratic

inequalities.
The following activity will help you to recall what you have learned about quadratic
equations in Grade 9.

ACTIVITY 3.5
1 Which of the following are quadratic equations?
a x – 2 = x2 + 2x b x2 – 2x = x2 + 3x + 6
c 2 (x – 4) – (x – 2) = (x + 2) (x – 4) d x3 – 3 = 1 + 4x + x2
e (x – 1) (x + 2) ≥ 0 f x(x –1) (x + 1 ) = 0.
2 Which of the following are quadratic inequalities?
a 2x2 ≤ 5x + x2 – 3 b 2x2 > 2x + x2 + 8
c x (1 – x) ≤ (x + 2) (1 – x) d 3x2 + 5x + 6 > 0
e 5 – 2 (x2 + x) < 6x – 2x2 f (x – 2) (x + 1) ≥ 2 – 2x
2
g – 1 > (x + 1) (x + 2).
3 If the product of two real numbers is zero, then what can you say about the two
numbers?
4 Factorize each of the following if possible:
1
a x2 + 6x b 35x – 28x2 c − 25 x 2 d 4x2 + 7x + 3
16
e x2 – x + 3 f x2 + 2x – 3 g 3x2 –11x – 4 h x2 + 4x + 4.
5 Given a quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0,
a what is its discriminant?
b state what must be true about the discriminant so that the equation has one real
root, two distinct real roots, and no real root.

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Mathematics Grade 10

3.3.1 Solving Quadratic Inequalities Using

Product Properties
Suppose you want to solve the quadratic inequality
(x – 2) (x + 3) > 0.
Check that x = 3 makes the statement true while x = 1 makes it false. How do you find
the solution set of the given inequality? Observe that the left hand side of the inequality
is the product of x – 2 and x + 3. The product of two real numbers is positive, if and
only if either both are positive or both are negative. This fact can be used to solve the
given inequality.

Product properties:
1 m.n > 0, if and only if
i m > 0 and n > 0 or ii m < 0 and n < 0.
2 m.n < 0, if and only if
i m > 0 and n < 0 or ii m < 0 and n > 0.
Example 1 Solve each of the following inequalities:
a (x + 1) (x –3) > 0 b 3x2 – 2x ≥ 0
c − 2x2 + 9x + 5 < 0 d x2 – x – 2 ≤ 0
Solution:
a By Product property 1, (x +1) (x – 3) is positive if either both the factors are
positive or both are negative.
Now, consider case by case as follows:
Case i When both the factors are positive
x +1 > 0 and x – 3 > 0
x > – 1 and x > 3
The intersection of x > – 1 and x > 3 is x > 3. This can be illustrated on the
number line as shown in Figure 3.16 below.
x>3

x
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4

Figure 3.16

The solution set for this first case is S1 = {x: x > 3} = (3, ∞).

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

Case ii When both the factors are negative

x + 1 < 0 and x – 3 < 0
x < –1 and x < 3
The intersection of x < –1 and x < 3 is x < – 1.
This can be illustrated on the number line as shown below in Figure 3.17.
x < –1

x
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4
Figure 3.17
The solution set for this second case is S2 = {x: x < – 1} = (–∞, –1).
Therefore, the solution set of (x + 1) (x – 3) > 0 is:
S1 ∪ S2 = {x: x < –1 or x > 3} = (–∞ , − 1) ∪ (3, ∞)
b First, factorize 3x2 – 2x as x (3x – 2)
So, 3x2 – 2x > 0 means x (3x – 2) > 0 equivalently.
i x > 0 and 3x – 2 > 0 or
ii x < 0 and 3x – 2 < 0
Case i When x ≥ 0 and 3x – 2 ≥ 0
2
x ≥ 0 and x ≥
3
2 2
The intersection of x ≥ 0 and x ≥ is x ≥ . Graphically,
3 3
2
x≥
3

x
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4
Figure 3.18
2 2
So, S1 = { x : x ≥ }=[ ,∞)
3 3
2
Case ii When x ≤ 0 and 3x – 2 ≤ 0 that is x ≤ 0 and x ≤
3
2
The intersection of x ≤ 0 and x ≤ is x ≤ 0. Graphically,
3
x≤0

x
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 2 1 2 3 4
3
Figure 3.19
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Mathematics Grade 10

So, S2 = {x: x < 0} = (–∞ , 0]

Therefore, the solution set for 3x2 – 2x > 0 is
2 2
S1 ∪ S2 = { x: x < 0 or x > } = (– ∞, 0] ∪ [ , ∞ )
3 3
c − 2x2 + 9x + 5 = (–2x – 1) (x – 5) < 0
By Product property 2, (–2x – 1) (x – 5) is negative if one of the factors is negative
and the other is positive.
As before, consider case by case as follows:
Case i When –2x – 1 > 0 and x – 5 < 0
1
x< − and x < 5
2
1 1
The intersection of x < − and x < 5 is x < − . Graphically,
2 2

1
x<−
2
x
1
-4 -3 -2 -1 − 0 1 2 3 4 5
2

Figure 3.20
1 1
So, S1 = {x: x < − } = ( − ∞, − )
2 2
Case ii When – 2 x – 1 < 0 and x – 5 > 0
1
x >− and x > 5
2
1
The intersection of x > 5 and x > − is x > 5. Graphically,
2
x>5

x
–4 –3 –2 –1 − 1 0 1 2 3 4 5
2
Figure 3.21
So, S2 = {x: x > 5} = (5, ∞)
Therefore, the solution set for (–2 x–1) (x – 5) < 0 is
1 1
S1 ∪ S2 = {x: x < − or x > 5} = ( − ∞, − ) ∪ (5,∞ )
2 2

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

d x2 – x – 2 = (x + 1) (x – 2)
So, x2 – x – 2 ≤ 0 means (x + 1) (x – 2) ≤ 0
By Product property 2, (x + 1) (x – 2) is negative if one of the factors is negative and
the other is positive. To solve (x + 1) (x – 2) < 0, consider case by case as follows:
Case i x + 1 ≥ 0 and x – 2 ≤ 0
x ≥ –1 and x ≤ 2
The intersection of x ≥ –1 and x ≤ 2 is –1 ≤ x ≤ 2. Graphically,

–1 ≤ x ≤ 2
x
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4
Figure 3.22
So, S1 = {x: –1 ≤ x ≤ 2} = [–1, 2]
Case ii x + 1 ≤ 0 and x – 2 ≥ 0
x ≤ –1 and x ≥ 2
There is no intersection of x ≤ − 1 and x ≥ 2. Graphically,
x ≤ -1 x≥2
x
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4
Figure 3.23
So, S2 = ∅
Therefore, the solution set for x2 – x – 2 ≤ 0 is
S1 ∪ S2 = {x: − 1 ≤ x ≤ 2} ∪ ∅ = {x: –1 ≤ x ≤ 2} = [–1, 2]

Exercise 3.3
1 Solve each of the following inequalities using product properties:
a x (x + 5 ) > 0 b ( x – 1 )2 ≤ 0
c (4+ x) (x – 4) > 0 d (5x – 3)( x + 7) < 0
1
e (1 + x )(3 – 2x) ≥ 0 f x) ≤ 0
(5 – x)(1 –
3
2 Factorize and solve each of the following inequalities using product properties:
a x2 + 5x + 4 < 0 b x2 – 4 > 0 c x2 + 5x + 6 ≥ 0
d x2 – 2x + 1 ≤ 0 e 3x2 + 4x + 1 >0 f 2x2 – 7x + 3 < 0
1
g 25x2 – <0 h x2 + 4x + 4 > 0.
16
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Mathematics Grade 10

3 a Find the solution set of the inequality x2 < 25.

b Why is {x : x < 5} not the solution set of x2 < 25?
4 If x < y, does it follow that x2 < y2 ?
5 If a ball is thrown upward from ground level with an initial velocity of 24 m/s, its
height h in metres after t seconds is given by h (t) = 24t – 16t2. When will the ball
be at a height of more than 8 metres?

3.3.2 Solving Quadratic Inequalities Using the

Sign Chart Method
Suppose you need to solve the quadratic inequality
x2 + 3x – 4 < 0.
Consider how the sign of x2 + 3x – 4 changes as you vary the values of the unknown.
As x is moved along the number line, the quantity x2 + 3x – 4 is sometimes positive,
sometimes zero, and sometimes negative. To solve the inequality, you must find the
values of x for which x2 + 3x – 4 is negative. Intervals where x2 + 3x – 4 is positive are
separated from intervals where it is negative by values of x for which it is zero. To
locate these values, solve the equation x2 + 3x – 4 = 0.
Factorize x2 + 3x – 4 and find the two roots (–4 and 1). Divide the number line into
three open intervals. The expression x2 + 3x – 4 will have the same sign in each of these
intervals ( − ∞, − 4), ( − 4, 1) and (1, ∞).
The “sign chart” method allows you to find the sign of x2 + 3x – 4 in each interval.
Step 1 Factorize x2 + 3x – 4 = (x + 4) ( x – 1)
Step 2 Draw a sign chart, noting the sign of each factor and hence the whole
expression as shown below.
-4 1

x+4 – – – – 0 + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + +
x–1 – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –0+ + + +
(x + 4)(x – 1) + + + + 0 – – – – – – – – – – – 0 + + + + +

Figure 3.24
Step 3 Read the solution from the last line of the sign chart
x 2+ 3x – 4 < 0 for x ∈ (–4, 1)
Therefore, the solution set is the interval (–4, 1)

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

Example 2 Solve each of the following inequalities using the sign chart method:
a 6 + x – x2 ≤ 0 b 2x2 + 3x – 2 ≥ 0.
Solution:
a Factorize 6 + x – x2 so that 6 + x – x2 = (x + 2) (3 – x) ≤ 0.
We may identify the sign of x + 2 and 3 – x as follows.
x + 2 < 0 for each x < –2, x + 2 = 0 at x = –2 and x + 2 > 0 for each x > –2.
Similarly, 3 – x < 0 for each x > 3, 3 − x = 0 at x = 3 and 3 – x > 0 for each x < 3.
Therefore, the above results are shown in the sign chart given below in Figure 3.25.
-2 3

x+2 – – – – 0 + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + +
3–x + + + + ++ + + + + + + + + + + 0– – – –
(x + 2)(3 – x) – – – – 0 + + + + + + + + + + + 0 – – – –

Figure 3.25
From the sign chart, you can immediately read the following
i The solution set of (3 – x)(x + 2) < 0 is {x: x < − 2 or x > 3}= ( − ∞, − 2)∪(3, ∞).
ii The solution set of (3 – x) (x + 2) > 0 is {x : – 2 < x < 3} = (– 2 , 3).
iii The solution set of (3 – x) (x + 2) = 0 is {– 2 , 3}.
iv The solution set of (3 – x) ( x + 2) ≤0 is (– ∞ , − 2] ∪ [3, ∞)
Therefore, the solution set of 6 + x – x2 ≤ 0 is (–∞, − 2] ∪ [3, ∞).
b 2x2 + 3x – 2 = (2x – 1)(x + 2) ≥ 0.
1 1 1
2x – 1< 0 for each x < , 2x – 1 = 0 at x = , and 2x – 1 > 0 for each x > .
2 2 2
Similarly, x + 2 < 0 for each x < – 2 , x + 2 = 0 at x = − 2 and x + 2 > 0 for each
x > − 2.
The above results are shown in the sign chart given below:
1
-2 2

2x – 1 – – – – – – – – – – – – 0+ + + + + + +

x+2 – – – – – – 0 + + + + ++ + + + + + + +

(2x – 1)(x + 2) + + + + + + 0– – – – – 0+++++++++

Figure 3.26
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Mathematics Grade 10

From the sign chart, you can conclude that

1 
(2x – 1) (x + 2) ≥ 0 for each x ∈ (– ∞, – 2] ∪  , ∞  and
2 
 1
(2x – 1) (x + 2) < 0 for each x ∈  −2 ,  .
 2
1 
Therefore, the solution set of 2x2 + 3x – 2 ≥ 0 is ( − ∞ , − 2] ∪  , ∞ 
2 
2
Example 3 For what value(s) of k does the quadratic equation kx – 2x + k = 0 has
i only one real root? ii two distinct real roots?
iii no real roots?
Solution: The quadratic equation kx2 – 2x + k = 0 is equivalent to the quadratic
equation ax2 + bx + c = 0 with a = k, b = − 2 and c = k
The given quadratic equation has
i one real root when b2 – 4ac = 0
So, ( − 2)2 – 4 (k) (k) = 0
4 – 4k2 = 0 equivalently (2 – 2k) (2 + 2k) = 0
2 – 2k = 0 or 2 + 2k = 0
k = 1 or k = − 1
Therefore, kx2 – 2x + k = 0 has only one real root if either k = 1 or k = –1.
ii two distinct real roots when b2 – 4ac > 0
It follows that, 4 – 4k2 > 0
(2 – 2k) (2 + 2k) > 0 ⇒ 4 (1 – k) (1 + k) > 0
Now, use the sign chart shown below:
-1 1

2 + 2k – – – – – – 0+ + + + + + + + + + + + +
2 – 2k + + + + ++ + + + + + 0– – – – – – – –

(2 + 2k)(2 − 2k) – – – – – – 0 + ++ + 0– – – – – – – –

Figure 3.27
Therefore, for each k∈ ( − 1, 1), the given quadratic equation has two distinct real
roots.
iii kx2 – 2x + k = 0 has no real root for each k∈ ( − ∞ , − 1) ∪ (1 , ∞) where
b2 – 4ac < 0

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

What do you do if ax2 + bx + c, a ≠ 0 is not factorizable into linear factors?

That is, there are no real numbers x1 and x2 such that ax2 + bx + c = a(x – x1)(x – x2).
In this case, either ax2 + bx + c > 0 for all values of x or ax2 + bx + c < 0 for all values of x.
As a result, the solution set of ax2 + bx + c > 0 or ax2 + bx + c ≥ 0 is either ( − ∞, ∞) or { }.
Take a test point and substitute, in order to decide which is the case.
Example 4 Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities:
a x2 – 2x + 5 ≥ 0 b − 3x2 + x – 1 ≥ 0.
Solution:
a For x2 – 2x + 5 ≥ 0
a = 1, b = − 2, c = 5 and b2 – 4ac = ( − 2)2 – 4 (1) (5) = − 16 < 0.
Hence, x2 – 2x + 5 cannot be factorized.
Take a test point, say x = 0. Then, 02 – 2(0) + 5 = 5 > 0
So, x2 – 2x + 5 > 0 for all x∈ ( − ∞, ∞)
Therefore, the solution set S = ( − ∞, ∞)
b For −3x2 + x −1 ≥ 0
b2 – 4ac = (1)2 – 4 ( − 3) (– 1) = 1 – 12 = − 11 < 0
Hence, − 3x2 + x – 1 cannot be factorized. Take a test point, say x = 0.
− 3(0)2 + 0 – 1 = − 1< 0. Hence, − 3x2 + x – 1 ≥ 0 is false.
Therefore, S = { }

Group Work 3.3

1 Solve each of the following inequalities using
i product properties ii sign charts:
2
a x2 − x<0 b 2 x 2 + 5x > 3
3
c ( x − 1) 2 ≥ 2 x 2 − 2 x d (2 x − 1)( x + 1) ≤ x( x − 3) + 4
2 What must be the value (s) of k so that (3k – 4) x2 +2k x – 1 = 0 has
i two distinct real roots? ii one real root? iii no real roots?
3 A manufacturer determines that the profit obtained from selling x units of a certain
item in Birr is P(x) = 10x – 0.002x2
a How many units must be produced to secure profit?
b In the process of production, at how many units level will there be no profit
and no loss?

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Mathematics Grade 10

Exercise 3.4
1 Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities using sign charts:
a x (x + 5) > 0 b (x – 3)2 ≥ 0
 x
c (4 + x) (4 – x) < 0 d  1 +  (5 − x ) < 0
 3
e 3 – x – 2x2 > 0 f − 6x2 + 2 < x
g 2x2 ≥ – 3 – 5x h 4x2 – x – 8 < 3x2 – 4x + 2
i − x2 + 3x < 4.
2 Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities using either product properties
or sign charts:
a x2 + x – 12 > 0 b x2 – 6x + 9 > 0 c x2 – 3x – 4 ≤ 0
d 5x – x2 < 6 e x2 + 2x < – 1 f x – 1 ≤ x2 + 2
3 For what value(s) of k does each of the following quadratic equations have
i one real root? ii two distinct real roots? iii no real root?
a (k + 2) x2 – (k + 2)x – 1 = 0
b x2 + (5– k) x + 9 = 0
4 For what value (s) of k is
a kx2 + 6x + 1 > 0 for each real number x?
b x2 – 9x + k < 0 only for x ∈ (– 2, 11)?
5 A rocket is fired straight upward from ground level with an initial velocity of
480 km/hr. After t seconds, its distance above the ground level is given by
480t – 16t2.
For what time interval is the rocket more than 3200km above ground level?
6 A farmer has 8m by 10m plot of land. He needs to construct a water reservoir at
one corner of the plot with equal length and width as shown below.
10 m

x
8m

For what values of x is the area of the remaining part less than the area needed for
the reservoir?

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

3.3.3 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.
i If a > 0, then the graph of the quadratic function
f (x) = ax2 + bx + c is an upward parabola.
ii If a < 0, then the graph of the quadratic function
f (x) = ax2 + bx + c is a downward parabola.

ACTIVITY 3.6
1 For a quadratic function f (x) = ax2 + bx + c, find the point at
which the graph turns upward or downward. What do you call
this turning point?
2 Sketch the graph and find the turning point of:
a f (x) = x2 – 1 b f (x) = 4 – x2
3 What is the condition for the quadratic function f (x) = ax2 + bx + c to have a
maximum value? When will it have a minimum value?
4 What is the value of x at which the quadratic function f (x) = ax2 + bx + c attains
its maximum or minimum value?
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
f (x) = ax2 + bx + c
i crosses the x-axis twice, if b2 – 4ac > 0.
ii touches the x-axis at a point, if b2 – 4ac = 0.
iii does not touch the x-axis at all, if b2 – 4ac < 0.
To solve a quadratic inequality graphically, find the values of x 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 x2 – 3x + 2 < 0, graphically.
Solution: Begin by drawing the graph of f (x) = x2 – 3x + 2. Some values for x
and f (x) are given in the table below and the corresponding graph is
given in Figure 3.28. Complete the table first.
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Mathematics Grade 10

x −3 −2 −1 0 1 2 3

f (x) 12 2 0

4
y
3
2
1

•2 x
3 -2 -1 1 3 4
-1 3 1
 ,− 
2 4
-2
-3
Figure 3.28 Graph of f (x) = x2 – 3x + 2
From the graph, f (x) = 0 when x = 1 and when x = 2. On the other hand, f (x) > 0
when x < 1 and when x > 2 and f (x) < 0 when x lies between 1 and 2.
3 3 1 3
This inequality could be tested by setting x = , giving f   = − . So f   < 0.
2 2 4 2
It follows that the solution set of x2 – 3x + 2 < 0 consists of all real numbers
greater than 1 and less than 2. That is, S.S = {x : 1 < x < 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.

x –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3

f (x) 2 2 10
y
6

5
4
3
2
• 1
(-2, 1) x
-5 -4 -3 -2 -1 1 2 3
-1
-2

Figure 3.29 Graph of f (x) = x2 + 4x + 5

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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

As shown in the Figure 3.29 above, the graph of f (x) = x2 + 4x + 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, S.S = ( − ∞, ∞).
Note that, if you use the process of completing the square, you obtain
x2 + 4x + 5 > 0 ⇒ x2 + 4x > – 5
x2 + 4x + 4 > – 5 + 4
(x + 2)2 > – 1
Since the square of any real numbers is non-negative, (x + 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.
y (1, 4)
4 •
3
2
1
x
- 2 -1 1 2 3 4
-1
-2
-3

Figure 3.30 Graph of f (x) = –x2 + 2x + 3

The graph of f (x) = 2x – x2 + 3 crosses the x-axis at x = –1 and x = 3. So, the
solution set of this inequality is
S.S = {x| x < – 1 or x > 3}.
If the quadratic equation ax2 +bx +c = 0, a ≠ 0 has discriminant b2 – 4ac < 0, then the
equation has no real roots. Moreover,
i the solution set of ax2 + bx + c ≥ 0 is the set of all real numbers if
a > 0 and is empty set if a < 0.
ii the solution set of ax2 + bx + c ≤ 0 is the set of all real numbers if
a < 0 and is empty set if a > 0.

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Mathematics Grade 10

Exercise 3.5
1 Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities, graphically:
a x2 + 6x + 5 ≥ 0 b x2 + 6x + 5 < 0
c x2 + 8x + 16 < 0 d x2 + 2x + 3 ≥ 0
e 3x – x2 + 2 < 0 f 4x2 – x ≤ 3x2 + 2
g x (x – 2) < 0 h (x + 1) (x – 2) > 0
i 3x2 + 4x + 1 > 0 j x2 + 3x + 3 < 0
k 3x2 + 22x + 35 ≥ 0 l 6x2 + 1 ≥ 5x.
2 Suppose the solution set of 2x2 + kx + 1 > 0 consists of the set of all real
numbers. Find all possible values of k.

Key Terms
absolute value linear inequality quadratic equation
closed intervals open downward quadratic function
complete listing open intervals quadratic inequality
discriminant open upward sign chart
infinity partial listing solution set
linear equation product property

Summary
1 The open interval (a, b) with end-points a and b is the set of all real numbers x
such that a < x < b.
2 The closed interval [a, b] with end-points a and b is the set of all real numbers x
such that a ≤ x ≤ b.
3 The half-open interval or half-closed interval [a, b) with end points a and b is the
set of all real numbers x such that a ≤ x < b.
4 If x is a real number, then x  is the absolute value of x defined by

 x, if x ≥ 0
x =
− x, if x < 0
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 Unit 3 Solving Inequalities

5 For any positive real number a, the solution set of:

i the equation x  = a is x = a or x = − a;
ii the inequality x  < a is – a < x < a and
iii the inequality x  > a is x < – a or x > a.
6 When two or more linear equations involve the same variables, they are called a
system of linear equations.

7 An inequality that can be reduced to either ax2 + bx + c ≤ 0, ax2 + bx + c < 0,

ax2 + bx + c ≥ 0 or ax2 + bx + c > 0, where a, b and c are constants and a ≠ 0, is
called a quadratic inequality.
8 Given any quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0,
i if b2 – 4ac > 0, it has two distinct real roots.
ii if b2 – 4ac = 0, it has only one real root.
iii if b2 – 4ac < 0, it has no real root.
9 When the discriminant b2 – 4ac < 0, then
i the solution set of ax2 + bx + c > 0 is the set of all real numbers, if a > 0 and
empty set if a < 0.
ii the solution set of ax2 + bx + c < 0 is the set of all real numbers, if a < 0 and
empty set if a > 0.
10 Product property:
i mn > 0, if and only if m > 0 and n > 0 or m < 0 and n < 0.
ii mn < 0, if and only if m > 0 and n < 0 or m < 0 and n > 0.

Review Exercises on Unit 3

1 Solve each of the following inequalities using product properties:

2 
a (x + 1) (x – 3) < 0 b  x + 3  ( x − 1) < 0
3 

c (x – 3 ) ( x + 2) > 0 d x2 > x

e x2 + 5x + 4 ≥ 0 f (x – 2)2 ≤ 2 – x
g 1 – 2x > (1+ x)2 h 3x2 – 6x + 5 < x2 – 2x + 3.
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Mathematics Grade 10

2 Solve each of the following inequalities using sign charts:

a (1 – x) (5 – x) > 0 b x2 ≤ 9 c (x + 2)2 < 25
d 1 – x ≥ 2x2 e 6t2 + 1 < 5t f 2t2 + 3t ≤ 5.
3 Solve each of the following inequalities graphically:
a x2 – x + 1 > 0 b x2 > x + 6 c x2 – 4x – 1 > 0
d x2 + 25 ≥ 10x e x2 + 32 ≥ 12x + 6 f x (6x – 13) > – 6
g x (10 – 3x) < 8 h (x – 3)2 ≤ 1
4 Solve each of the following quadratic inequalities using any convenient method:
a 2x2 < x + 2 b −2x2 + 6x + 15 ≤ 0
1 2 25
c x + ≥ 5x d 6x2 – x + 3 < 5x2 + 5x – 5
2 2
e x (10x + 19) ≤ 15 f (x + 2)2 > (3x + 1)2.
5 What must the value(s) of k be so that:
a kx2 – 10x – 5 ≤ 0 for all x?
b 2x2 + (k – 3) x + k –5 = 0 has one real root? two real roots? no real root?
6 The sum of a non–negative number and its square is less than 12. What could the
number be?
7 The sum of a number x and twice another is 20. If the product of these numbers is
not more than 48, what are all possible values of x?
1 2
8 The profit of a certain company is given by p ( x) = 10, 000 + 350 x − x
2
where x is the amount (Birr in tens) spent on advertising. What amount gives a
profit of more than Birr 40,000?

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