Solving Absolute Value Problem: x ≤ 3

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The absolute value equation |x - 3| = 3 - x has been analyzed, revealing that it can be broken down into two cases: x - 3 = 3 - x and -(x - 3) = 3 - x. The first case yields the solution x = 3, while the second case suggests that all real numbers are solutions. However, verification shows that only x = 3 satisfies the original equation, as substituting any real number greater than 3 results in a contradiction. The correct interpretation of the solution is that x must be less than or equal to 3, as 3 - x must be non-negative for the equation to hold true.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of absolute value equations
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Knowledge of solution verification techniques
  • Familiarity with inequalities and their implications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of absolute value functions
  • Learn how to solve inequalities involving absolute values
  • Explore verification methods for algebraic solutions
  • Practice solving similar absolute value equations with variable expressions
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and anyone studying algebraic concepts, particularly those focusing on absolute value equations and their solutions.

ziaharipur
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
Suppose we have this absolute value question | x-3 | = 3 – x
If we solve this question we break it as
X - 3 = 3 – x or -(x - 3) = 3 - x
Now if we solve it we come to know that the part on right is true for all real numbers
And the part on the left is true for only 3

I also have read that if there is a variable on right side of absolute value then we need to verify our solutions.
Now we have two solution one is 3 and the other one is all real numbers. The first solution works but there is a problem with the second one, Suppose we have a real number 4 and we put it in our absolute value equation

| x – 3 | = 3 – x
| 4 – 3 | = 3 – 4
| 1 | = -1
Now when we verify our solution we discard the solution not satisfying the equation as in this case the second solution is not satisfying the solution. So, we have only one solution to this equation and that is 3.

But when I saw the answer of this question in the book I saw that the answer is x < =3

Now I am confuse please help me.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Notice that in order for the equation

<br /> |x -3| = 3 - x<br />

to be satisfied, 3 - x must be greater-than-or-equal-to zero, since the left side of the equation is. Do you see how that fact leads to the solution?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
5K