How it works
These inequality number line multiple choice questions each come with a drawn graph. Read a graph and pick its inequality, or read an inequality and pick the line that shows it.
Read the full guide
Four kinds of inequality number line questions
A set is 10 questions. The Start from menu under the question keeps the questions to one kind. Read the graph asks you to identify the inequality graphed on the number line, one thick line from a circle. Pick the graph names an inequality such as x ≥ −2 and asks which of four lines shows it. Compound inequalities draws one piece between two circles, or two pieces that run apart. Solve first gives a one-step or two-step inequality, such as −2x < 6, to solve before picking a line.
Pictures with four lines
Pick the graph and Solve first show four number lines lettered A to D, each from −5 to 5. The choices are Line A to Line D.
- To test a line, put one number from its thick part into the inequality. It should come out true.
Questions and answers
How do you graph an inequality on a number line?
Draw a circle on the boundary number, open for < or >, closed for ≤ or ≥. Then draw a thick line from the circle over the numbers that make the inequality true: to the right for greater than, to the left for less than.
What does an open circle mean on a number line?
The number under it is not part of the solution. x > 3 has an open circle at 3, because 3 is not greater than 3. A closed circle means the number is included, as in x ≥ 3.
When do you flip the inequality sign?
When both sides are multiplied or divided by a negative number. Dividing −2x < 6 by −2 gives x > −3. Adding or subtracting a number, or dividing by a positive one, leaves the sign as it is.
How do you graph a compound inequality?
An "and" inequality, such as x > −1 and x ≤ 4, is one thick piece between two circles. An "or" inequality, such as x < −2 or x ≥ 3, is two pieces that run away from each other.