answersLogoWhite

0

Yes, but with the following two rules to remember. If you multiply or divide both sides by a negative number, then the inequality sign is reversed (> becomes <, or < becomes >). Adding and subtracting numbers have no effect on the direction of the inequality. Also, if you have a 'not equals' sign, then it is unaffected by the multiplication.

The same is true if you take the reciprocal of both sides.

Example: with the equation: 1/x = 2, take the reciprocal and x = 1/2. With the inequality 1/x < 2, this becomes x > 1/2. You could also solve it by multiplying both sides by x, then dividing both sides by 2, and get 2 < x, which is the same as x > 2.

Another example: 3 - x > 7. Subtract 3 from both sides: -x > 4. Multiply both sides by -1: x < -4.

You could also go about this as: add x to both sides: 3 > 7 + x, then subtract 7 from both sides: -4 > x, which means the same as x < -4

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

BlakeBlake
As your older brother, I've been where you are—maybe not exactly, but close enough.
Chat with Blake
TaigaTaiga
Every great hero faces trials, and you—yes, YOU—are no exception!
Chat with Taiga
DevinDevin
I've poured enough drinks to know that people don't always want advice—they just want to talk.
Chat with Devin

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Can linear equations and linear inequalities be solved the same way?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp