How do I solve a polynomial inequality?

1 Answer
Sep 10, 2014

I use what is called the "test point method" to solve polynomial inequalities.

Ex: (x-3)(x+2) > 0

The factors on the left and the 0 on the right should remind you of the Zero Product Property. In this inequality, we are looking for products that are positive, and not equal to zero.

Since the values of x = 3 and x = -2 both produce zeros, I put those onto a number line and leave open circles to mean that they are not included in the solution set.

my number line 1

Next, test values between and on the outsides of these two points to see if you get a true statement:

Ex: test -3 (-3-3)(-3+2) = negative times negative = positive (TRUE)

Ex: test 0 (0-3)(0+2) = negative times positive = negative (FALSE)

Ex: test 4 (4-3)(4+2) = positive times positive = positive (TRUE)

and shade your number line accordingly:
my number line 2

Last, I have my students write their solution sets in interval notation.
#(\infty,-2)U(3,\infty)#

The above process will be the same for polynomials of larger degree and more factors. Find a tough one and try it!