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JAMB Mathematics 2014 Question 17

Question 17

Inequalities

What is the solution of (x − 5)/(x + 3) < −1?

  1. A.x < −3 or x > 5
  2. B.−3 < x < 1
  3. C.x < −3 or 3 > 1
  4. D.−3 < x < 5
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (−3 < x < 1)

Explanation

Add 1 to both sides: (x − 5 + x + 3)/(x + 3) < 0, i.e. (2x − 2)/(x + 3) < 0. The top and bottom must have opposite signs, which happens only when −3 < x < 1.