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Worked solution

Compare squared and reflected inputs

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Solve the inequality x+4−x2+2x+3<1\dfrac{x+4}{-x^2+2x+3}<1. marks

Deduce the solution of

(i) x2+4−x4+2x2+3<1\dfrac{x^2+4}{-x^4+2x^2+3}<1, marks

(ii) x−4x2+2x−3<1\dfrac{x-4}{x^2+2x-3}<1. marks

[2016/RI/Promo/3]

CJC · Review Problems · Question 9

Answer

Base: x<−1x<-1 or x>3x>3; (i) x<−3x<-\sqrt3 or x>3x>\sqrt3; (ii) x<−3x<-3 or x>1x>1.

Base inequality

Subtract 1 to obtain x2−x+1−(x+1)(x−3)<0\dfrac{x^2-x+1}{-(x+1)(x-3)}<0. The numerator x2−x+1=(x−12)2+34x^2-x+1=(x-\frac12)^2+\frac34 is always positive. Alternatively, its discriminant is 1−4=−3<01-4=-3<0 and its leading coefficient is positive. Thus 1(x+1)(x−3)>0\dfrac1{(x+1)(x-3)}>0, with signs +,−,++,-,+ across the excluded poles −1,3-1,3. Hence x<−1x<-1 or x>3x>3.

How did this part go?

(i)

Replace the original input by x2x^2. Then x2<−1x^2<-1 or x2>3x^2>3. Since x2≥0x^2\geq0, reject the first branch. Thus x<−3x<-\sqrt3 or x>3x>\sqrt3.

How did this part go?

(ii)

Replace the original input by −x-x. The fraction becomes −x+4−x2−2x+3=x−4x2+2x−3\dfrac{-x+4}{-x^2-2x+3}=\dfrac{x-4}{x^2+2x-3}. Thus −x<−1-x<-1 or −x>3-x>3, giving x>1x>1 or x<−3x<-3.

How did this part go?

Compare your sketch

Expand diagram

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The base reciprocal sign chart is positive, negative, positive across −1 and 3, with both poles excluded.
The base reciprocal sign chart is positive, negative, positive across −1 and 3, with both poles excluded.
The base reciprocal sign chart is positive, negative, positive across −1 and 3, with both poles excluded.

Common mistakes

Although the base inequality matches Q8, the printed paper and deductions are distinct; preserve this question identity.

Solution notes

The sign chart is independently drawn from the printed solution. Spacing is illustrative; labelled critical values and open/closed endpoints determine the set.

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