5 Linear Equations and Inequalities

Pre and Post Requisite 1. Linear Equations in One Variable:

 Definition and form of a linear equation in one variable.
6th Class Math
Domain: Algebra  Solving Linear equations containing rational coefficients
Sub Domain: Linear 2. Linear Inequalities in One Variable:
Expression &
Equation  Definition and form of a linear inequality in one variable.
7th Class Math  Concept of compound inequalities and their notations.
Domain: Algebra
 Understanding of how to graphically represent solutions on a
Sub Domain:
Linear Equations number line.
3. Linear Inequations in Two Variables:
8th Class Math
 Definition and form of a linear inequation in two variables.
Domain: Algebra
Sub Domain:  Concept of a system of two linear inequations.
Linear Equations
 Graphical Solution of System of two linear inequations
9th Class Math
Chapter # 1
Properties of
inequality & Number
line Concept

9th Class Math 1. Linear Equations in One Variable:

linear Equations
 Ability to solve linear equations involving rational coefficients.
and Inequalities
2. Linear Equations in Two Variables:
10th Class Math  Skill to solve a system of two linear equations using:
Linear Inequalities  Substitution method.
 Elimination method.
 Ability to classify the system of equations based on their
solutions: consistent and independent, inconsistent, or
consistent and dependent.
3. Linear Inequalities in One Variable:
 Proficiency in solving linear inequalities with rational
coefficients.
 Skill to solve and represent compound inequalities.
 Ability to graphically represent the solution of inequalities on a
number line, distinguishing between open and closed circle
solution on number line
Introduction
An algebraic sentence is a mathematical statement that includes numbers,
variables, and operational symbols to represent relationships. It can be an
equation (e.g., 2𝑥 + 5 = 17) or an inequality (e.g., 3𝑦 − 7 > 10).
Both equations and inequalities are essential components of algebraic
sentences and understanding them is crucial for mastering linear equations.

5.1 Linear Equation: Student Learning Outcomes

A linear equation is a mathematical statement that establishes a
Solve linear equations and
relationship between two quantities using equality. We can say that an
inequalities with rational
equation works as a balance between two quantities, Consider the coefficients and represent the
Following Balance where left pan is balanced by right pan. E.g., solution set on a real line.

5.1.1 Characteristics:
Let us understand the characteristics of Linear Equations to comprehend
the concept.
Degree: The equation only includes variables raised to the first power, with
the highest power being 1, and does not contain products of variables.
General Forms:
One Variable: ax  b  0 where a,b  &a  0 .
Two Variables: ax  by  c  0 where a,b, c &a  ,b  0 .
x 1 x 1 1
Examples: One Variable: 3x  2 , 4 x  9  0 ,  
2 3 6
x 3 y 4
Two Variables: 3x  6 y  12 , 3  x  1  5 y  68 , 
x y 1
Graph: It always forms a straight line when plotted on a coordinate plane
as we have studied in previous class.
5.1.2 Solution of a Linear Equation:
A linear equation in one variable has a unique solution, which is the value
of 𝑥 that satisfies the equation.

Technique for Solving a Linear Equation

The procedure for solving linear equations in one variable is summarized
in the following steps.
 Eliminate fractions by multiplying both sides by the least common
Note: A single linear equation
multiple of the denominators. with two variables has
 Use the distributive property to remove parentheses. infinitely many solutions,
 Combine like terms on both sides. represented as ordered pairs.
 Apply the addition property of equality to get variables on one side
and constants on the other.
 Use the multiplicative property of equality to isolate the variable.
Verify the solution by substituting it back into the original equation.

5.1.3 Types of Equations on the Basis of Solution: Important Information

When categorizing equations based on the nature of their solutions, we Identities hold true for all
often encounter three primary types. These classifications help in permissible values of their
understanding the behavior of the equation and predicting the kind of variables, providing a consistent
foundation in mathematics.
solutions they might offer. The three main types are:
Symbol for Identity: 
Algebraic:
1. Consistent or Independent (Unique Solution): A linear equation has
a  b
2
 a 2  2ab  b2
a unique solution when the coefficient of the variable is non-zero (𝑎 ≠ 0).
Its graph is a non-horizontal line intersecting the x-axis at one point. Trigonometric:
For example, 2𝑥 + 3 = 7 yields 𝑥 = 2. sin2  x   cos 2  x  1
Logarithmic:
2. Inconsistent (No Solution): If the coefficient of the variable is zero logb( m  n )≡logb ( m )+logb( n )
(𝑎 = 0) and the constant term is non-zero (𝑏 ≠ 0), the equation has no Note: We prefer to use “  ”
solution, indicating a contradiction. instead of “  ” while solving
questions.
For example, 0𝑥 + 5 = 0 simplifies to 5 = 0, which is a contradiction.
Hence, no solution.

3. Identity or Consistent Dependent (Infinite Solutions): When both the

coefficient of the variable (𝑎) and the constant term (𝑏) are zero, the linear
equation has infinitely many solutions, forming an identity true for all 𝑥
values.
For example, 0𝑥 + 0 = 0 is always true for all values of 𝑥. Hence, infinite
solutions.
Identity (≡)
Inconsistent Consistent-Independent
Consistent-Dependent
(No solutions) (One solution)
(Infinitely many solutions)
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑑 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑
Equation 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏
(Where 𝑏 ≠ 𝑑 ) (Where 𝑎 ≠ 𝑐 )
 Same x-terms  Same x-terms
Property  Different x-terms
 Different constants  Same constants
3𝑥 + 3 = 3(𝑥 + 1)
3𝑥 + 4 = 3𝑥 3𝑥 + 4 = 2𝑥 + 7
This Equation hold for All
Example 0≠4 𝑥=3
Values of 𝑥
False Unique Solution
True
 Example 5.1: Example 5.2:
2 x  7  5  3x 3 x 1 x
   
2 x  3x  5  7 5 10 5 5
5 x  12 Multiplying both sides with 10, which is the
12  5x L.C.M of 5 & 10
12 2  3 x  1 x
x 2 10      10    
5 5  5 10   5 5
6  x  2  2 x
x  2 x  2  6
4
3x  4  x 
3
Example 5.3: Solve Example 5.4: Solve
x2 x3 2 1 1
  1 Solution: Multiplying both sides   , x  1
4 5 x 1 x  1 x 1
2

with 20 Solution:
 x2 x3 2 1 1
20     20 1  
 4 5   x   1 x  1 x  1
2 2

5  x  2   4  x  3  20 2 2

5 x  10  4 x  12  20  x  1 x  1 x 1
x  42 1
1
x 1
x 1  1  x  2

5.1.4 Checking the Solution

Checking a single linear equation involves verifying if a given value or set
of values satisfies the equation. Here's how you can do it:

1. Identify the Equation: Start with a linear equation in one variable, like
2𝑥 + 5 = 13.
2. Substitute the Value: Insert the given or chosen value for 𝑥 . For
instance, to test 𝑥 = 4 in 2𝑥 + 5 = 13, replace 𝑥 with 4.
3. Perform the Calculation: Execute the arithmetic to see if both sides
match. For the example: 2(4) + 5 = 13 ⇒ 8 + 5 = 13 ⇒ 13 = 13
4. Verify the Result: If both sides are equal post-substitution, the value
solves the equation. Here, 𝑥 = 4 is a solution 2𝑥 + 5 = 13.
 Example 5.5: Example 5.6:
2 1 1 1 1
Equation: 2   Checking if x  2 Equation: x  3  x  1
x 1 x  1 x  1 2 4
is a solution: Checking if x  8 is a solution:
2 1 1 1 1
   8   3   8  1
2 1 2 1 2 1
2
2 4
2 1 1 4  3  2 1
 
4 1 3 3 1 3
2 1 1 Since the two sides are not equal, x  8 is not a
 
3 3 3 solution to the given equation.
1 1

3 3
Hence x  2 is a solution to
2 1 1
 
x 1 x 1 x 1
2

5.1.5 Extraneous roots

Extraneous roots often occur in equations, especially radical equations, when
certain operations are performed during the solving process. One common
example is the radical equation x  3  x 1 . When attempting to isolate x by
squaring both sides, we obtain the equation  x  3    x  1 ² . Solving for x
results in x  4 as a solution. However, when we check this solution in the original
equation, we find that 4  3  4 1 , revealing the presence of an extraneous
root.

5.1.6 Applications of Linear Equations

Linear equations, crucial in math and science, explain real-life scenarios
in economics, physics, engineering, and finance. They contribute to
digital imaging, medicine, and problem-solving across diverse fields,
offering a powerful yet simple solution

Translate: Four less than twice some number is 16.

Solution: First, choose a variable for the unknown number and identify
the key words and phrases. Let 𝑥 represent the unknown indicated by
“some number.”

twice some number four less than is equal to

2x  4  16

Remember that subtraction is not commutative. For this reason, take care
when setting up differences. In this example, 4  2 x 16 is an incorrect
translation.
Answer: 2 x  4 16
Example 5.7: A larger integer is 2 less than 3 times a smaller integer. The
sum of the two integers is 18. Find the integers.

Solution: Identify variables: Begin by assigning a variable to the smaller

integer. Let x represent the smaller integer. Use the information from the
first sentence to express the larger integer in terms of the variable 𝑥: 'A
larger integer is 2 less than 3 times the smaller integer.' This can be
represented as 3𝑥 − 2.
Set up an equation: Add the expressions that represent the two integers
and equate the resulting expression to 18, as stated in the second
sentence: 'The sum of the two integers is 18.'
x   3 x  2   18
x  3x  2  18
4 x  2  18
4 x  2  2  18  2
4 x 20
4 x  20 
4 4
x 5

Example5.8:
Your favorite electronics retailer is having a terrific sale on noise
cancelling wireless headphones. After a 40% price reduction, you
purchase headphones for $192. What was the price of the headphones
before the reduction?
Solution
Step 1. Let x represent one of the unknown quantities.
We will let
x = the price of the headphones prior to the reduction.
Step 2. Represent other unknown quantities in terms of x.
There are no other unknown quantities to find, so we can skip this step.
Step 3. Write an equation in x that models the conditions.
The headphones original price minus the 40% reduction is the reduced
price, $192

Step 4. Solve the equation and answer the question.

x  0.4 x  192 This Is the Equation that models the problem’s

condition

0.6 x  192 Common Like Terms

0.6 x 192
 Divide both sides by 0.6
0.6 0.6

x  0.4 x  192

0.6 x  192 Combine like terms:

x  320

Step 5. Check the proposed solution in the original wording of the problem.
The price before the reduction, $320, minus the 40% reduction should equal
the reduced price given in the original wording, $192:

320 − 40% 𝑜𝑓 320 = 320 − 0.4(320) = 320 − 128 = 192.

This verifies that the headphones’ price before the reduction was $320.

Skill: 5.1
 Ability to solve linear equations involving rational coefficients.
 Checking the Solution

Exercise 5.1
1. Solve the following linear equations:
2 x  1 3x x  2
(i) 𝒙 − 𝟓 = 𝟐𝒙– 𝟗 (vi)  
6 4 12

(ii)
 3x  1  4 (vii)
x 5 x 8
 1
5 7 2
5 x  12
(iii) 𝟓𝒙 − 𝟔 = 𝟏𝟔 − 𝟔𝒙 (viii) x
2
1 1 x  2 2x  3 4x  5
(iv)  x  1   x  3  1 (ix)  
2 5 2 5 4
5
(v) 3  x  1  2  x  1 (x)  3  7
x
1 1 2 5 1 1  2x 1 5 2
(xii)  x        3x  (xiv)    ,x 1
2 6  3 6 3 2  x 1 3 6 x 1

2. Find three consecutives even numbers which add up to 1524.

3. When a number is doubled and then added to 13, the result is 38. Find
the number.

4. When 7 is subtracted from three times a certain number, the

result is 28. What is the number?

5. If AB is a straight line, find 𝑥.

6. Consider (a)-(d):
i) Construct an equation in terms of 𝑥,
ii) solve the equation,
iii) calculate the size of each of the angles,
iv) check your answers.
Hint: Sum of all angles in a triangle is 180o and the sum of all
angles in a circle is 360o.

7. The rectangular painting in the figure shown measures 12 inches by 16

inches and is surrounded by a frame of uniform width around the four
edges. The perimeter of the rectangle formed by the painting and its frame
is 72 inches.
Determine the width of the frame.

8. Things did not go quite as planned. You invested $15,000, part of it in

a stock that realized a 15% gain. However, the rest of the money suffered
a 7% loss. If you had an overall gain of $1590, how much was invested at
each rate

5.2 Linear Inequalities

In an equation, an equals sign signifies that one side is equal to the other.
When the two sides are unequal, it's termed an inequality rather than an
equation. Inequalities can represent factual relationships; for instance, it's
evident that 3 is less than 5. However, when an inequality involves a
variable (e.g., 𝑥), it can encompass a range of potential values for 𝑥. There
are five symbols used to express various types of inequalities:

1. Less than:  (e.g., 3  5 )

Test Yourself
2. Greater than:  (e.g., 5  3 ) Imagine you have two positive
3. Less than or equal to:  (e.g., 3  3 ) integers. The larger integer is 2
4. Greater than or equal to:  (e.g., 3  3 ) less than 3 times the smaller
5. Not equal to:  (e.g., 3  5 ) integer, and the sum of the two
integers is a prime number. Can
you find a pair of positive
5.3.1 Understanding the Solution of an Inequality integers that meet these
The algebraic inequality x  2 , indicating x is greater than or equal to 2,' conditions? If so, what is the
has infinite solutions like 2, 3, 5. These are typically represented using a smallest prime number that can
be obtained as the sum of these
number line graph, as listing all solutions is impractical. integers?

5.3.2 Number Line

A number line is a way of representing an inequality. It helps us visualize
the range of possible values of a variable. To express the solution
graphically, draw a number line and shade in all the values that are
solutions to the inequality. Interval notation is textual and uses specific
notation as follows:
Now, let's compare the notation of a strict, or non-inclusive, inequality:
Strict inequalities indicate that solutions can approach the boundary point,
in this case, 2, but do not include it. This concept is represented by an open
dot on the number line.

Example 5.8: Plot 𝑥 ≥ 3 , 𝑥 > 3 on the number line.

Example 5.9: Solve 5𝑥 − 3(2𝑥 − 1) ≥ 2(𝑥 − 3).

Solution:
5 x  3  2 x  1  2  x  3 3x  3  6
5x  6 x  3  2 x  6 3x  3  3  6  3
Visualizing Solutions
x  3  2x  6 3x  9 of Linear Inequalities:
 x  3  2x  2x  6  2x 3x 9 Move the red, blue,
 and green spots to
3 3
change the solution.
x3

Compound Inequality:
A compound inequality combines two inequalities using symbols like <, >,
≤, or ≥, indicating a range of solutions that satisfy both conditions
simultaneously.
3
Example 5.10: Graph:   x  2.
2
Solution: Shade all real numbers bounded by or strictly between,
3
 and 2.
2
 Note : Set-Builder Notation
Set-builder notation, like {
Example 5.11: Graph and give the interval notation equivalent: 5  x 15 x | x  2 } , represents real
number intervals. For instance,
.
" x  3 or x  6 " is written as
Solution: Shade all real numbers between 5 and 15 , and indicate that
{ x | x  3 or x  6 } , and
the upper bound, 15, is included in the solution set by using a closed dot.
bounded intervals like

1 x  3 as { x | 1 x  3 } .

The interval notation equivalent for the inequality 5  x 15 is  5,15 .

1
Example 5.12: Solve 1  x  3  1.
2
Solution:
Checking:
The solution lies between 4 and less
than 8, so to check the inequality, we
can select any value from our solution
range.
Let's take 𝒙 = 𝟓.

5.3.4 Real life Problems Related to Inequality

Linear inequalities are essential in everyday decision-making. They guide
budgeting to prevent overspending, set age restrictions for various
activities, determine dietary recommendations based on caloric limits and
ensure road safety through speed limits — all expressed as one-variable
linear inequalities

Example 5.13: Translate, five less than twice a number is at most 25.
Solution: First, choose a variable for the unknown number and identify the
key words and phrases.
twice a number five less than is at most

2n  5  25
Answer: 2n  5  25 . The key phrase “is at most” indicates that the
quantity has a maximum value of 25 or smaller.

Checking: The solution lies between  10 and 5, so to check the inequality,

we can choose any value from our solution range. Let’s say x  0.
10  2 x  20 10  2  0   20 10  0  20  True  As 0 is greater than
10 and less than 20, the inequality holds true.

Example 5.14: The temperature in the desert can range from 10°C to
45°C in one 24-hour period. Find the equivalent range in degrees
5
Fahrenheit, F, given that C   F  32 
9
Solution: Set up a compound inequality where the temperature in Celsius
is inclusively between 10°C and 45°C. Then substitute the expression
equivalent to the Celsius temperature in the inequality and solve for F.
10C  temperature in Celsius  45C
5
10   F  32  45
9
9 9 5 9
10    F  32   45 
5 5 9 5
18  F  32  81
18  32  F  32  32  81  32
50  F  113
Skill: 5.3
 Proficiency in solving linear inequalities with rational coefficients.
 Skill to solve and represent compound inequalities.
 Ability to graphically represent the solution of inequalities on a number line,
distinguishing between open and closed circle solution on number line

Exercise 5.2

1. Solve the following inequalities and plot the solution on the number
line.
1 3 1
i. 2 x  4  4 iv.  x    vii. 2  3 x  1  14 ii. 15x  10  20
5 4 5
2 1 1 2
v.  x  1  3 viii. 9 x  3  3 x  4   12 iii. x   vi. 7  x  2   1  15
3 2 3 3

1 3 2 1 iv. 5  5   x  1  15 vii. 2  12  2  x  3   2
i.   x  
2 4 3 2
 ii. 12  6  x  3   0 1 viii. 5  2  x  1  3 x  5
v. 4    3x  12   4
3
iii. 4  2  x  3  6 3 11  3 3 ix. 3  3  2 x  6   1
vi.    x  1  
2 4 2  4 2
2. Solve the following compound inequalities and plot the solution on
the number line.
3. The sum of 7 and three times a number is less than or equal to 1.

4. If three is subtracted from two times a number, then the result is greater
than or equal to nine.

5. When a number is subtracted from 10, the result is at most 12.

6. When 5 times a number is subtracted from 6, the result is at least 26.

7. Bilal earns PKR 1200 for the day plus PKR 25 for every person he gets
to register for a community event. How many people must he register to
earn at least PKR 5000 for the day?

8. With a cricket club membership costing PKR 10,000 per month, each
game costs only PKR 2500. How many games can a member play if he
wishes to keep his costs to PKR 25,000 per month at most?

9. Javed earned scores of 72, 85, and 75 on his first three mathematics
exams. What must he score on the fourth exam to average at least 80?

10. A computer is set to shut down if the temperature exceeds 40°C. Give
an equivalent statement using degrees Fahrenheit.
Hint: C  5 / 9  F  32 

11. A specific brand of engine oil is guaranteed to maintain viscosity if the

temperature is below 35°C. Provide an equivalent statement using degrees
Fahrenheit.

5.4 Graphical Solution of Linear Inequalities in Two Variables

In earlier section, we have seen that a graph of an inequality in one
Student Learning Outcomes
variable is a visual representation and is a convenient way to represent the
solutions of the inequality. Now, we will discuss graph of a linear
inequality in two variables. Solve two linear inequalities
with two unknowns
simultaneously.
We know that a line divides the Cartesian plane into two parts. Each part
is known as a half plane. A vertical line will divide the plane in left and
right half planes as seen in figure 1 and a non-vertical line will divide the
plane into lower and upper half planes as seen in figure 2.
A point in the Cartesian plane will either lie on a line or will lie in either
of the half planes I or II. We shall now examine the relationship, if any, of
the points in the plane and the inequalities 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 < 𝑐 or 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐.
Let us consider the line
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 = 𝑐, 𝑎 ≠ 0, 𝑏 ≠ 0
There are three possibilities namely:
(i) 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 = 𝑐
(ii) 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐
(iii) 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 < 𝑐.
In case (i), clearly, all points (𝑥, 𝑦) satisfying (i) lie on
the line it represents and conversely. Consider case (ii),
let us first assume that 𝑏 > 0. Consider a point P(𝛼, 𝛽)
on the line 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 = 𝑐, 𝑏 > 0, so that
𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛽 = 𝑐.
Take an arbitrary point Q(𝛼, 𝛾) in the half plane II Now,
from Figure we interpret, 𝛾 > 𝛽 Figure 1
or 𝑏𝛾 > 𝑏𝛽 or 𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛾 > 𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛽 or 𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛾 > 𝑐
i.e., Q(𝛼, 𝛾) satisfies the inequality 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐.
Thus, all the points lying in the half plane II above the line 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 = 𝑐
satisfies
the inequality 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐. Conversely, let (𝛼, 𝛽) be a point on line
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 = 𝑐 and an arbitrary point Q(𝛼, 𝛾) satisfying
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐
so that 𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛾 > 𝑐
⇒ 𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛾 > 𝑎𝛼 + 𝑏𝛽 (Why?)
⇒ 𝛾 > 𝛽 ( as 𝑏 > 0)
This means that the point (𝛼, 𝛾) lies in the half plane II.
Thus, any point in the half plane II satisfies 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐, and conversely
any point satisfying the inequality 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐 lies in half plane II.
In case 𝑏 < 0, we can similarly prove that any point satisfying 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 >
𝑐 lies in the half plane I, and conversely.
Hence, we deduce that all points satisfying 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐 lies in one of the
half planes II or I according as 𝑏 > 0 or 𝑏 < 0, and conversely.
Thus, graph of the inequality 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 > 𝑐 will be one of the half plane
(called solution region) and represented by shading in the corresponding
half plane.
 Note:
1. The region containing all the solutions of an inequality is called the solution region.
2. In order to identify the half plane represented by an inequality, it is just sufficient to take any point (𝑎, 𝑏)
(not online) and check whether it satisfies the inequality or not. If it satisfies, then the inequality represents the
half plane and shade the region which contains the point, otherwise, the inequality represents that half plane
which does not contain the point within it. For convenience, the point  0 ,0  is preferred.
3. If an inequality is of the type ax  by  c or ax  by  c , then the points on the line ax  by  c are also
included in the solution region. So draw a dark line in the solution region.
4. If an inequality is of the form ax  by  c or ax  by  c , then the points on the line ax  by  c are not to
be included in the solution region. So draw a broken or dotted line in the solution region.

Example 5.15
Let us now solve this inequality
40𝑥 + 20𝑦 ≤ 120 … … … . (1)
Considering that x & y are whole numbers. In this case,
we find the pairs of values of 𝑥 and 𝑦, which make the
statement (1) true. In fact, the set of such pairs will be the
solution set of the inequality (1).

To start with, let 𝑥 = 0. Then L.H.S. of (1) is

40𝑥 + 20𝑦 ≤ 120
40(0) + 20𝑦 ≤ 120.
Thus, we have
20𝑦 ≤ 120 or 𝑦 ≤ 6

For 𝑥 = 0, the corresponding values of 𝑦 can be

0,1,2,3,4,5,6 only. In this case, the solutions of (1) are
(0,0), (0,1), (0,2), (0,3), (0,4), (0,5) and (0,6).

Similarly, other solutions of (1),

when 𝑥 = 1,2 and 3 are:
(1,0), (1,1), (1,2), (1,3), (1,4), (2,0), (2,1), (2,2), (3,0) Figure 2
This is shown in Fig 2.

Let us now extend the domain of 𝑥 and 𝑦 from whole numbers to real
numbers, and see what will be the solutions of (1) in this case. You will
see that the graphical method of solution will be very convenient in this
case. For this purpose, let us consider the (corresponding) equation and
draw its graph.
40𝑥 + 20𝑦 = 120
In order to draw the graph of the inequality (1), we take
one point say (0,0), in half plane I and check whether
values of 𝑥 and 𝑦 satisfy the inequality or not.

We observe that 𝑥 = 0, 𝑦 = 0 satisfy the inequality. Thus,

we say that the half plane I is the graph of the inequality.
Since the points on the line also satisfy the inequality (1)
above, the line is also a part of the graph.

Thus, the graph of the given inequality is half plane I

including the line itself. Clearly half plane II is not the part
of the graph. Hence, solutions of inequality (1) will consist
of all the points of its graph (half plane I including the
line).

We shall now consider some examples to explain the above

Figure 3
procedure for solving a linear inequality involving two
variables.

Example 5.16
Solve 𝟑𝒙 + 𝟐𝒚 > 𝟔 graphically. Figure 4
Solution
Graph of 3𝑥 + 2𝑦 = 6 is given as dotted line.
This line divides the 𝑥𝑦-plane in two half planes I and II.
We select a point (not on the line), say (0,0), which lies
in one of the half planes and determine if this point
satisfies the given inequality, we note that
3(0) + 2(0) > 6 or 0 > 6, which is false.

Hence, half plane I is not the solution region of the given

inequality. Clearly, any point on the line does not satisfy
the given strict inequality. In other words, the shaded half
plane II excluding the points on the line is the solution

Example 5.17 Solve 𝒚 < 𝟐 graphically.

Solution Graph of 𝑦 = 2 is given in the Figure
Let us select a point, (0,0) in lower half plane I and
putting 𝑦 = 0 in the given inequality, we see that
1 × 0 < 2 or 0 < 2 which is true.
Thus, the solution region is the shaded region below the
line 𝑦 = 2. Hence, every point below the line (excluding
all the points on the line) determines the solution of the
given inequality.

Figure 5
5.5 Solution of System of Linear Inequalities in Two Variables
In previous Section, you have learnt how to solve linear inequality in one
or two variables graphically. We will now illustrate the method for
solving a system of linear inequalities in two variables graphically
through some examples.
Example 5.18 Solve the following system of linear inequalities
graphically.
𝑥+𝑦 ≥ 5
𝑥−𝑦 ≤ 3
Solution: The graph of linear equation
𝑥+𝑦 = 5
is drawn in following Figure.
We note that solution of inequality (1) is represented by the shaded region
above the line 𝑥
+𝑦 = 5, including the points on the line.
On the same set of axes, we draw the graph of the equation x  y  3 . as

Figure 6

shown in Fig 6. Then we note that inequality (2) represents the shaded
region above
the line x  y  3 , including the points on the line.
Clearly, the double shaded region, common to the above two shaded
regions is the required solution region of the given system of inequalities.
Example 5.19 Solve the following system of inequalities graphically
x  2y  8
2x  y  8
Solution We draw the graphs of the lines x  2 y  8
and 2 x  y  8 . The inequality (1) and (2) represent the
region below the two lines,

Fig 7 including the point on the respective lines.

Since x  0, y  0 , every point in the shaded region in
the first quadrant represent a solution of the given
system of inequalities (Fig 6.14).

Example 5.20
Determining Whether an Ordered Pair Is a Solution to a
System Figure 7
Determine whether the ordered pair is a solution to the
system:
 x  4 y  10

3x  2 y  12
1.  2 ,4  . 2.  3,1
Solution
1. Is the ordered pair  2 ,4  a solution?
We substitute x  2 and y  4 into both inequalities.
x  4y  10 3x  2 y  12
2  4  4   10 3  2   2  4   12
14  10 true 14  12 true
The ordered pair  2 ,4  made both inequalities true. Therefore  2 ,4  is
a solution to this system.
2. Is the order pair  3,1 . a solution?
We substitute x  3 and y  1 into both inequalities.
x  4y  10 3x  2 y  12
3  4 1  10 3  3   2 1  12
7  10 false 7  12 true
The ordered pair  3,1 made one inequality true, but the other one false.
Therefore  3,1 is not a solution to this system.
Example 5.21
Solving a System of Linear Inequalities by Graphing
e Following Figure to solve the system of linear inequalities:
y  2x 1 y  x  1

Solution
To solve the system of linear inequalities we look at the graph and find
the region that satisfies Both inequalities. To do this we
pick a test point and check. Let's us pick  1, 1 .
Is  1, 1 a solution to y  2 x  1
1  2  1  1
1  3 true
Is  1, 1 a solution to y  x  1 ?
1  1  1
1  0 true
The region containing  1, 1 is the solution to the
Figure 8
system of linear inequalities. Notice that the solution is
all the points in the area shaded twice, which appears as
the darkest shaded region.

A retired couple can invest up to $25,000. As their financial adviser, you

recommend that they place at least $15,000 in Treasury bills yielding 2%
and at most $5000 in corporate bonds yielding 3%.
(a) Using x to denote the amount of money invested in Treasury bills and
y the amount invested in corporate bonds, write a system of linear
inequalities that describes the possible amounts of each investment. We
shall assume that x and y are in thousands of dollars.
(b) Graph the system.
(a) The system of linear inequalities is

𝑥≥0 x and 𝑦 are nonnegative variables since they represent

⎧ 𝑦≥0 money invested in thousands of dollars.
⎪
𝑥 + 𝑦 ≤ 25 The total of the two investments, 𝑥 + 𝑦, cannot
⎨ 𝑥 ≥ 15 At least $15,000 in Treasury bills
⎪
⎩ 𝑦≤5 At most $5000 in corporate bonds

(b) See the shaded region in Figure 23. Note that the inequalities 𝑥 ≥ 0
and 𝑦 ≥ 0 require that the graph of the system be in quadrant I. Figure 9

The graph of the system of linear inequalities in Figure 23 is said to be

bounded, because it can be contained within some circle of sufficiently
large radius. A graph that cannot be contained in any circle is said to be
unbounded.

EXERCISE 5.3
1. Solve the following inequalities graphically in two dimensional plane:
i. x  y  5 ii. 3x  4 y  12
iii. 2 x  y  6 iv. y  8  2 x
2. Check Weather the Following Points are from the Solution Region of
x  y  6,x  y  4
 1
i.  5,1 &  3,7  ii.  0 ,0  &  3,  
 2
3. Solve the following system of inequalities graphically:
i. 2 x  y  6 ,3 x  4 y  12 ii. 2 x  y  8,x  2 y  10
iii. 2 x  y  1,x  2 y  1 iv. 5 x  4 y  20,x  1, y  2

Review Exercise

1. Identify the following statements as True or False:

i. All linear equations represent straight-line relationships in mathematical terms.
ii. An equation with no solution is also known as a contradiction.
iii. The elimination method involves adding or subtracting equations to eliminate one variable, making it easier
to solve for the other variable.
iv. If an equation has infinite solutions, it means that any value for the variable will satisfy the equation.
v. When graphing solutions of inequalities on a number line, open circles are used to represent values that are
not part of the solution.
vi. Closed circles on a number line indicate that the end values are excluded from the solution set of the
inequality.
vii. Linear inequalities can have more than one solution, which can be represented as a range on a number line.
viii. Word problems involving linear inequalities often deal with scenarios where there is a range of acceptable
solutions.
ix. Linear equations and inequalities can never represent the same real-life scenario.
x. In the context of linear equations, the elimination method and substitution method yield different solutions.
xi. An equation that represents a straight line on a graph will always have a single solution.
xii. Linear inequalities are less practical than linear equations because they offer a range of solutions instead
of an exact answer.
xiii. The primary difference between linear equations and inequalities is the graphical representation on a
number line.
xiv. The solution to the inequality 2  x  3   4x  6 is x  9 .
7
xv. If 5x  3  2x  4 , then x   .
3
2. For Every question, there are four options. Choose the right one.
(i) The standard form of a linear equation in one variable x is
a. ax + b = 0 b. ax² + bx + c = 0 c. ax³ + bx² + cx + d = 0 d. ax4 + bx³ + cx² + dx + e = 0
ii. Which of the following is not a linear equation in one variable?
a. 33 b. 33(x+y) c. 33x d. 33y
iii. The solution of 2y + 9 = 4 is:
a. 9/2 b. 4/9 c.  4/9 d.  5/2
iv. The perimeter of a rectangle is 20 cm. If the length of the rectangle is 6 cm, then its breadth will be:
a. 4 cm b. 6 cm c. 10 cm d. 14 cm
v. The age of the father is three times the age of the son. If the age of the son is 15 years old, then the
age of the father is:
a. 50 years b. 55 years c. 40 years d. 45 years
vi. The difference between the two whole numbers is 66. The ratio of the two numbers is 2: 5. The two
numbers are:
a. 60 and 6 b. 100 and 33 c. 110 and 44 d. 99 and 33
vii. Three consecutive integers add up to 51. The integers are:
a. 16,17,18 b. 15,16,17 c. 17,18,19 d. 18,19,20
viii. If a number is divided by 8 it gives 6 as the value. Find the number.
a. 3 b. 42 c. 48 d. 56
ix. If a number is x , then what is the smaller number?
a. x – 30 b. 30 – x c. 30 x d. None of these
a b
x. If a  b then the sign used between and (if written respectively) is of
5 5
a. less than b. equal to c. greater than d. greater than and equal to
a 3 a 
xi. By solving the inequality 2     4   6  , the answer will be,
 2 4   4 
a. a  68 b. a  48 c. a  78 d. a  56
(xii) The graph of the solution on number line of the inequality 3 x – 2  2 x 1 is,

C  F  32 
(xiii) Let  . If C lies between 10 and 20, then:
5 9
a. 50 < F < 78 b. 50 < F < 68 c. 49 < F < 68 d. 49 < F < 78
(xiv) The values of x and y in 2x + 3y = 2 and x – 2y = 8 are:
a. – 4, 2 b. – 4, – 2 c. 4, – 2 d. 4, 2
(xv) The pair of linear equations 2x + 3y = 4 and 3x + 4y = 9 has:
a. infinitely many solutions b. no solution c. one unique solution d. two solutions
3. Solve the following linear equations:
i. 5  2 1  3 x   27 2 x  1 3x  2 1 5 8  19
ii.   iii.  a    a  1  
4 7 2 4 3  4
4. Solve the following inequalities and plot on the number line.
i. 2  5  3 x  2   4 1  3 x  ii. 4 x  10  6 x  2  3x  26 iii. 3x  1  5x  3  x
5. To raise PKR 20,000 from bangle sets costing PKR 150 each, with PKR 5,000 spent on materials, find
the number of sets to sell.
6. With 60 heads and 160 legs, calculate the count of chickens and goats on a Punjab farm.
7. Determine the number range where one fourth plus one fifth of it is ≤ 18.
 Summary
Understanding Linear Equations and Inequalities
 1. Linear Equations in One Variable:
i) Introduction: An equation of the form 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 0 where a and b are constants and x is the variable.
ii) Solving with Rational Coefficients: Finding the value of x using algebraic techniques.
 2. Linear Equations in Two Variables:
i) Introduction: An equation of the form 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0 representing a straight line on a coordinate
plane.
 3. Linear Inequalities in One Variable:
i) Introduction: A statement of the form 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 > 0 or 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 < 0 indicating a range of solutions.
ii) Solving with Rational Coefficients: Determining the range for x while considering the direction of the
inequality sign.
iii) Compound inequalities: use notations like 𝑎 < 𝑥 < 𝑏 for example, 3 < 𝑥 < 7 or 5 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 8
iv) Graphical Representation: Illustrating the solution range for x on a real number line using open (>) or
closed (≥) circles.
a) Single Inequality:
For 𝑥 > 𝑎 , plot an open circle at a and shade to the right.
For 𝑥 ≥ 𝑎 , plot a closed circle at a and shade to the right.
For 𝑥 < 𝑎 , plot an open circle at a and shade to the left.
For 𝑥 ≤ 𝑎 , plot a closed circle at a and shade to the left.
b) Compound Inequality (and notation):
For 𝑎 < 𝑥 < 𝑏, plot open circles at a and b and shade between them.
For 𝑎 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝑏, plot closed circles at a and b and shade between them.