Question

How do you isolate the variable in an inequality?

A.Change the inequality sign to an equal sign
B.Follow the order of operations
C.Reverse the inequality sign
D.Use inverse operations

Answer 1

To isolate a variable in an inequality, use inverse operations, and remember to reverse the inequality sign if you multiply or divide by a negative number. The correct option is D. Use inverse operations.

Step-by-step explanation:

To isolate the variable in an inequality, one should use inverse operations. This process is similar to solving equations; you perform the same operation on both sides of the inequality to keep it balanced. Unlike equations, however, when you multiply or divide both sides of an inequality by a negative number, you must reverse the inequality sign. There is no need to change the inequality to an equal sign or follow the order of operations beyond what is necessary for the manipulation of the inequality.

To demonstrate this process:

1. Begin with the inequality and identify the operations currently affecting the variable.
2. Use inverse operations to systematically cancel out the operations on the variable until it is isolated.
3. Remember to flip the inequality sign if you multiply or divide by a negative number.

Thus, the correct option is D. Use inverse operations.