Equation & inequalities: Solve quadratic inequality
General cases
Questions
Solve quadratic inequality(s)
Tip #1: Make $x^2$ positive before factorising!
Tip #2: If there are two inequalities, construct a number line to determine the 'overlapping' regions between the two inequalities (see question 2).
1. Solve the inequality $ (2x + 5)(2 - x) > x^2 - x - 5$.
Answer: $ -\sqrt{5} < x < \sqrt{5} $
2. Find the range of values of $x$ that satisfies the inequalities ${1 \over 5}x + 1 \ge -2$ and $3 - 11x < 4x^2$.
(from Think A Maths Workbook Worksheet 2D)
Answer: $ -15 \le x < -3 \text{ or } x > {1 \over 4} $
Real-life problem
3. The total number, $y$, of copies sold in a bookstore in $d$ days after a book launch is given by $y = d^2 - 5d + 80$. What is the least number of days it takes to sell at least $104$ copies of the book?
(from Additional Maths 360 2nd edition Ex 2.3)
Answer: $ 8 \text{ days} $
Work backwards from solutions
4. The inequality $ax^2 - bx > 20$ is only satisfied by $x < -2$ or $x > 5$. Find the value of $a$ and of $b$.
Answer: $ a = 2, b = 6 $
Past year O level questions
| Year & paper | Comments |
|---|---|
| 2022 P1 Question 4(a) | Form quadratic inequality and solve it |
| 2021 P2 Question 5a | Solve quadratic inequality and represent solutions on a number line |
| 2020 P2 Question 5a | Solve quadratic inequality and represent solutions on a number line |
| 2014 P1 Question 9i | Form quadratic inequality and solve it |
| 2013 P1 Question 9i | Solve quadratic inequality |
| 2010 P1 Question 3 | Solve two inequalities (Link - Subscription required) |
| 2009 P1 Question 6i | Solve quadratic inequality |
| 2006 P2 Question 7b | Work backwards from solutions (Link - Subscription required) |
| 2005 P1 Question 1 | Solve quadratic inequality |
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