Algebra II

Advanced algebraic concepts including polynomials, rational expressions, and complex numbers.

Advanced Topics

Polynomial and Rational Inequalities

More Than Just Equal

Inequalities use \( >, <, \geq, \leq \) instead of \( = \). With polynomials and rational expressions, you find where the expression is positive or negative.

Solving Steps

  1. Set the expression to zero and find critical points (where numerator or denominator is zero).
  2. Make a sign chart to see where the expression is positive or negative.
  3. Write your solution, being careful about open and closed intervals.

Real-World Connections

Inequalities are key in fields like economics, engineering, and data science, where you want to know when something is above or below a threshold.

Examples

  • Solve \( x^2 - 4 > 0 \): \( x < -2 \) or \( x > 2 \).

  • For \( \frac{x-3}{x+2} \leq 0 \), solution is \( -2 < x \leq 3 \), \( x eq -2 \).

In a Nutshell

Polynomial and rational inequalities help us find when expressions are greater or less than a value.