Math
Writing inequalities.
Definition
Writing inequalities means translating a real-world situation or verbal description into a mathematical statement using inequality symbols (<, >, ≤, ≥). Key phrases like 'at most,' 'at least,' 'fewer than,' and 'more than' signal which symbol to use.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 'You must be at least 16 to drive' becomes a ≥ 16
- 2 'The bag can hold no more than 50 pounds' becomes w ≤ 50
- 3 'She needs more than $200 to buy the phone' becomes m > 200
Key Fact
'At least' → ≥, 'at most' → ≤, 'more than' → >, 'fewer than' → <