
Taunja S. answered 05/09/13
Experienced Tutoring Queen Making Learning Easy
Multi-Step Inequalities can seem very intimidating but once you know the rules it's not as hard as you think. Multi-Step Inequalities can be solved the same as any Multi-Step Equation.
Here is an example for how to solve a multi-step inequality:
2x + 7 > 49
Goal is to get x by itself. Find out what x is greater than and/or equal to.
Step #1: To find out what x is you must eliminate the extra numbers on the side of the variable. Use Inverse (Opposite) Operation to accomplish this.
2x + 7 > 49
Subtract 7 from both sides. 2x +7 > 49
-7 -7
Then you have 2x > 42
Use Inverse Operation again by dividing 2 from both sides to get x by itself.
So then you have 2x/2 > 42/2
Your Answer is: x > 21 (Any # that is 21 or above is x)
Now let's say you have -2x + 7 > 49
Rules change when you have negative integers (numbers) and you have to multiply or divide by them then you change the direction of your inequality symbol.
So let's see here
-2x +7 > 49
Use Inverse Operation by subtracting 7 from both sides.
-2x +7 > 49
-7 -7
Now you have: -2x > 42
Use Inverse Operation by dividing -2 from both sides.
Special Rule: When you multiply or divide by a negative number, SWITCH Your Sign.
-2x/-2 > 49/-2
Your Answer: x < -21 (x is equal to or less than -21)
Christian I hope that these examples help you to better understand how to solve multi-step inequalities. Please let me know if you need more examples. If you need help with multiplying or dividing integers I have an easy tip for that as well. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Thank for the opportunity to be of assistance to you.
Taunja Smith, WyzAnt Tutoring Queen