Educator

Solving Compound and Absolute Value Inequalities

• A compound inequality combines two inequalities using either “and” or “or”. First solve each inequality separately. If “and” was used, the solution set is the set of all numbers in both solution sets of the two inequalities. If “or” was used, the solution is all numbers in either or both of the solution sets of the two inequalities.

• To solve an inequality involving absolute value, convert the original inequality into a compound inequality that does not involve absolute value, using the definition of absolute value. For example, |2x + 3| > 4 would become: either 2x + 3 > 4 or

• 2x + 3 < --4.

• Describe the solution set of a compound inequality using either a number line or set builder notation.