AlgebraVery hardLeast integer in a compound inequality with a negative coefficient
Algebra practice question
What is the least integer value of x that satisfies −2 < 4 − 3x ≤ 10?
Answer: -2
Subtract 4: −6 < −3x ≤ 6. Divide by −3 and reverse both signs: 2 > x ≥ −2. The least integer is −2.
Common wrong answers
- If you answered 1
- 1 is the greatest integer solution, not the least.
- If you answered 2
- 2 comes from forgetting to reverse the inequalities when dividing by −3; in fact x < 2.
- If you answered -1
- −1 is not the least; −2 satisfies the inequality (4 + 6 = 10 ≤ 10).
More Algebra questions
- Very hard
For what value of c does the system 3x − 2y = 8 and 9x + cy = 5 have no solution? - Very hard
In the system 5x + 4y = 32 and 3x − 2y = 6, what is the value of 8x + 2y? - Very hard
The solution set of the inequality |ax − b| ≤ 6, where a and b are constants and a > 0, is 3 ≤ x ≤ 9. What is … - Very hard
The function f is linear, and for every value of x, f(x + 2) − f(x) = 6. If f(5) = 4, what is the value of f(0… - Very hard
In the system of equations 2x + 3y = 12 and 5x − 2y = k, where k is a constant, the solution (x, y) satisfies … - Very hard
In the xy-plane, the system of equations kx + 6y = 12 and 2x + (k − 1)y = 6, where k is a constant, has infini…
Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.