Maths - Set Notation for Inequalities


What does the set ${x \colon x < 6.5}$ describe?


All numbers that are less than $6.5$.

What does the set ${x \colon x > -2}$ describe?


All numbers that are greater than $-2$.

How could you write the set for all numbers less than or equal to $5$?


\[\{ x \colon x \le 5 \}\]

How could you describe $-2 \le x < 6.5$ as one set?


\[\{ x \colon -2 \le x < 6.5 \}\]

How could you describe $-2 \le x < 6.5$ as the intersection of two sets?


\[\{ x \colon x > -2 \} \cap \{ x \colon x < 6.5 \}\]

How can you describe two inequalities that have been “stuck” together using set theory?


The intersection of two sets ($\cap$) for each condition.

How can you describe two inequalities that are seperate and can’t be combined using set theory?


The union of two sets ($\cup$) for each condition.

What should you always do when working with multiple inequalities?


Draw a number line.




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