Math Problem Statement

Solve the inequality: |3x - 4| ≥ 5. Which of the following is correct: (A) x ≤ -1/3 or x ≥ 3, (B) -1 ≤ x ≤ 3, (C) x ≥ -1/3 and x ≤ 3, (D) x ≤ -1 or x ≥ 3?

Solution

The inequality to solve is:

3x45|3x - 4| \geq 5

To solve this, we consider the definition of absolute value. The inequality splits into two cases:

Case 1: 3x453x - 4 \geq 5

Solve for xx: 3x9x33x \geq 9 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x \geq 3

Case 2: 3x453x - 4 \leq -5

Solve for xx: 3x1x133x \leq -1 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x \leq -\frac{1}{3}

Combine the two cases:

The solution to the inequality is: x13orx3x \leq -\frac{1}{3} \quad \text{or} \quad x \geq 3

Thus, the correct answer is A.

Would you like further clarification or details? Here are 5 related questions to expand understanding:

  1. How do we handle strict inequalities (e.g., << or >>) with absolute values?
  2. What is the method to verify the solutions of absolute value inequalities graphically?
  3. How would the solution change if the inequality were 3x4<5|3x - 4| < 5?
  4. Why does the absolute value inequality split into two cases?
  5. How does this method generalize to other absolute value equations or inequalities?

Tip: Always check for the direction of the inequality when splitting absolute value expressions into cases.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Absolute Value Inequalities

Formulas

Definition of absolute value: |a| = a if a ≥ 0, |a| = -a if a < 0

Theorems

Properties of absolute value inequalities: |x| ≥ c splits into x ≥ c or x ≤ -c

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11