How do I solve this inequality with positive coefficients?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the inequality (ax + b)/(√x) > 2√(ab) with positive coefficients a and b. Participants explore the steps involved in solving this inequality, including identifying its nature as a quadratic inequality and determining the solution set.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose starting with the inequality (ax + b)/(√x) > 2√(ab) and transforming it into ax + b > 2√(abx).
  • There is a discussion about whether the inequality is quadratic, with some participants agreeing that it appears to be one.
  • A participant suggests a solution set of x ∈ (0, b/a) ∪ (b/a, ∞), while another challenges this by questioning the number line used for testing intervals.
  • Some participants express a desire to understand how to test intervals and determine the solution set, with one participant asserting that the domain of x must be (0, ∞) due to the square root in the denominator.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of excluding the point x = b/a from the solution set, as it makes the expression zero.
  • A participant shares personal background information, indicating their self-study approach to precalculus and requesting explanations in simpler terms.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the solution set and the correct approach to testing intervals. There is no consensus on the final solution or the method for determining it.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of the domain of x due to the square root in the denominator, which must be strictly greater than zero. There are also unresolved aspects regarding the testing of intervals and the implications of the quadratic form.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals studying inequalities, particularly those interested in quadratic inequalities and interval testing in mathematical contexts.

mathdad
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Solve (ax + b)/(root{x}) > 2*root{ab}, where a > 0, b > 0.

Can someone provide the steps or at least get me started?
 
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RTCNTC said:
Solve (ax + b)/(root{x}) > 2*root{ab}, where a > 0, b > 0.

Can someone provide the steps or at least get me started?

$\dfrac{ax+b}{\sqrt{x}} > 2\sqrt{ab}$

since $\sqrt{x} > 0$ ...

$ax+b > 2\sqrt{abx}$

$(ax)^2 + 2abx + b^2 > 4abx$

$(ax)^2 - 2abx + b^2 > 0$

$(ax-b)^2 > 0$

finish it ...
 
I am solving for x, right?

Is this a quadratic inequality?
 
RTCNTC said:
I am solving for x, right?

yes

RTCNTC said:
Is this a quadratic inequality?

looks like one to me ...
 
Cool. I will solve it early this evening. I am working now.
 
solution set for the original inequality ...

$x \in \left(0,\dfrac{b}{a}\right) \cup \left(\dfrac{b}{a},\infty\right)$
 
(ax - b)^2 > 0

sqrt{(ax - b)^2} = sqrt{0}

ax - b = 0

ax = b

x = b/a<------------(b/a)----------->Is this the correct number line for testing each interval in this case?
 
<------------(b/a)----------->Is this the correct number line for testing each interval in this case?

no. should look like this ...

0(------------(b/a)----------->

why?
 
I was thinking of testing each interval leading to the solution. How did you determine the solution you provided?
 
  • #10
RTCNTC said:
I was thinking of testing each interval leading to the solution. How did you determine the solution you provided?

I tested intervals ... look again at the original inequality. What is the first thing you can say about the domain of $x$?
 
  • #11
I want to learn how to test the interval of this strange question. I see that you provided the solution. The domain of x in given problem must be [1, infinity).
 
  • #12
The domain of x in given problem must be [1, infinity).

no.

the denominator on the left side of the original inequality is $\sqrt{x}$, which has to be strictly greater than zero $\implies x > 0$

once you're to this point from doing the algebra on the original inequality ...

$(ax-b)^2 > 0$

... any non-zero value squared is positive, so $ax-b \ne 0 \implies x \ne \dfrac{b}{a}$. Couple that fact with the previous determination that $x > 0$ leads to the solution set in post #6.
 
  • #13
Skeeter,

Allow me to say a few things in the form of an outline.

1. I am not a student in a formal classroom. My college days ended in 1994.

2. I am 52 years old.

3. I love math. I am trying to review precalculus one chapter at a time through self-study and this website.

4. I need math to be explained in basic terms. To answer my questions in a textbook-like form is no different than reading the David Cohen precalculus book on my own.

5. You must be patient with me as I review precalculus. I took this course in the Spring 1993 semester and got an A minus. Not bad for an elective course. So, please be patient as I endeavor to review material learned long ago.
 
  • #14
Understand this is not news to me ... I've read this same series of statements regarding your situation before.
 
  • #15
Cool. So, this means you will try to be patient with me here. As you know, I try to show my work to posted questions.
 
Last edited:

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