5

Set 3: Linear Inequalities

Explanation

Answer: B

Which number line represents x<3x < 3?

A.

Closed circle at 3, arrow pointing left

B.

Open circle at 3, arrow pointing left

✓ Correct
C.

Closed circle at 3, arrow pointing right

D.

Open circle at 3, arrow pointing right

Detailed Explanation

Choice B is correct. Choice B is the correct answer. Number line representation matches algebraic notation precisely. 1. Symbol: << is a strict inequality, so use an open circle (3 is NOT included) 2. Direction: "Less than 3" means all values to the LEFT of 3 3. Arrow: Points left toward smaller values Strategic Tip: Open circles for << or >>; closed circles for \leq or \geq. Arrow direction matches "less than" (left) or "greater than" (right). Choice A is incorrect because it uses a closed circle, which would represent x3x \leq 3, not x<3x < 3. Choice C is incorrect because while having a circle at 3, it points right (greater than direction), wrong for <<. Choice D is incorrect because it combines an open circle (correct) with rightward arrow (incorrect direction).

Key Steps:

The correct answer is Open circle at 3, arrow pointing left

Why others are wrong:
A: Choice A is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
C: Choice C is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
D: Choice D is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

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