Introduction to Algebra 1: Identify Inequalities, Equations, and Expressions

Before getting into one and two step inequalities, let’s first understand what they are. If you have read my other posts, you would know that equations have equal signs, whereas expressions do not.

To learn more visit: http://skynotes.steveyan.com/algebraic-expressions/ Algebraic Expressions

Equations: Post coming soon.

First, let’s test your knowledge.

Which of these is an inequality?

A: 2x+7-9

B: 5x≥ 90

C: 3=x-4=8

If you answered B, ding ding! That’s correct. Now, you may have just guessed, so I’ll explain how it it is an inequality furthermore.

These symbols: ≥ ≤ might make you go, “What?” These symbols are actually very easy to understand. You have probably seen these symbols: ><. These mean greater or less than. The first two symbols look exactly the same, but with a line under them. The line stands for, “equal.”

When writing x<5 or x is less than 5, x cannot be equal to 5 because it is exactly equal to 5. But with this symbol, ≤ , it can allow x to be equal to 5 or less than 5.

x≤5 Numbers x could possibly be: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 0, -1, -2, and so on.

Extra info: ≥ is read as, “greater than or equal to.”

Now, that you get the concept let’s try to answer these questions.

Can y be equal to 10 in this situation?

y<10

If you said no, then you are right! This symbol does not have a line under it, meaning that it cannot be equal to 10.

Tip: Make sure to be careful of the symbols. Things are very easy to mix up, so be sure to check the question thoroughly.

Here’s another question. Just two more!

Is this an inequality?

2x≤7

If you said yes, then you are correct! This includes the inequality symbols. In this case, this inequality uses the greater than or equal to symbol.

Last question!

What are 5 possible values for n?

n≥9

If you said any of these: 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or any positive number greater than 9, then you’re correct.

Good job learning about inequalities! Keep updated for more posts. 😃

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