Finding the set of values for x

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the set of values for x that satisfy the inequality \(\frac{(x-3)^{2}}{x+1} < 2\). The original poster has transformed this into the form \(\frac{(x-7)(x-1)}{x+1} < 0\) and is exploring how to create sets based on critical points identified as x = 7, 1, and -1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the critical points and the conditions under which the product of terms is negative. There is mention of sign changes and logical sets related to the inequality. Some participants question the terminology used, such as referring to critical points as "angles." Others express uncertainty about methods for determining the sets and the role of the denominator in the inequality.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of the inequality and the conditions for sign changes. There is a mix of approaches being considered, including graphical interpretations and logical reasoning about the signs of the factors involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion regarding the method of handling the denominator and the terminology used for critical points. There is also a reference to a method involving a table, indicating that some participants may be unfamiliar with certain approaches to inequalities.

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Homework Statement


Find the set of values for x which

[tex]\frac{(x-3)^{2}}{x+1} < 2[/tex]

I turned this into

[tex]\frac{(x-7)(x-1)}{x+1} < 0[/tex]

Now this implies that the critical angles are x = 7, 1 and -1 but how do I create the sets. I think I have to do somthing with sign change?

Thanks :)

EDIT: WHAT'S WRONG WITH MY LATEX??
 
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There is nothing wrong with your latex; the forum is having problems at the moment.

It is a product of 3 terms, so you have the conditions abc < 0 iff (ab < 0 and c > 0) or (bc < 0 and a > 0) or (ac < 0 and b > 0). Inequalities usually generate logical sets like this.
 
Hi thomas49th! :smile:
thomas49th said:
Find the set of values for x which

(x-3)2/(x+1) < 2

I turned this into

(x-7)(x-1)/(x+1) < 0

Now this implies that the critical angles are x = 7, 1 and -1 but how do I create the sets. I think I have to do somthing with sign change?

Yes, that's fine …

(and of course it's the same as the product (x-7)(x-1)(x+1) < 0 … do you see why? :wink:)

and you know that the sign can only change at 7 1 or -1 (but why are you calling them angles? :confused:), and will change each time (since there are no squared factors) :wink:
 
Sorry I meant values NOT angles. My bad :S


It is a product of 3 terms, so you have the conditions abc < 0 iff (ab < 0 and c > 0) or (bc < 0 and a > 0) or (ac < 0 and b > 0). Inequalities usually generate logical sets like this.
Never done the sets like that. Pretty sure I've never been taught that method, though I can't remeber the method so that's why I am asking :)

(and of course it's the same as the product (x-7)(x-1)(x+1) < 0 … do you see why? )

and you know that the sign can only change at 7 1 or -1 (but why are you calling them angles? ), and will change each time (since there are no squared factors)

I don't know why you can multiply them like that. (x+1) is the denominator ! you could say (x+1)-1 maybe?

The way I say it outloud is:

y values of (x-7)(x-1) are divide by the y values x+1 graph and I want to find where the new composite graph is below the x-axis. I'm not sure what the most sensible way of doing it is... I am sure there was a method of drawing out a table?

Thanks :)
 
thomas49th said:
I don't know why you can multiply them like that. (x+1) is the denominator ! you could say (x+1)-1 maybe?

Because (x+1)2 is always positive, so A/(x+1) has the same sign as (A/(x+1))(x+1)2, = A(x+1).
The way I say it outloud is …

Why are you making this so complicated?

Use slider142's :smile: method …

the product of three things will be negative if exactly an odd number of them is negative … ie if either one is negative, or all three are negative …

so in this case … ? :smile:
 
sorted. Thanks :)
 

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