Question

Solve the inequality for x. –2x + 3 < –13

Answer 1

x > 8

Explanation:

In order to solve the inequality for x, we must get x by itself on one side of the equation.

-2x + 3 < -13

3 is being added to -2x. The inverse of addition is subtraction. Subtract 3 from both sides of the equation.

-2x + (3-3) < (-13-3)

-2x < -13 -3

-2x < -16

x is being multiplied by -2. The inverse of multiplication is division. Divide both sides of the equation by -2.

-2x/-2 < -16/-2

When dividing or multiplying by a negative number, remember to flip the inequality sign.

-2x/-2 > -16/-2

x > -16/-2

x > 8

The solution to the inequality is x>8

Answer 2

x > 8

Explanation:

When you divide or multiply both sides of an inequality by a negative number, the equality is switched.

-2x + 3 < -13

(-2x + 3) - 3 < -13 - 3

-2x < -16

-2x/-2 < -16/-2

x > 8