Class XI Mathematics

Chapter 5: Linear Inequalities

Standard NCERT & CBSE aligned study curriculum. Master concepts, track accuracy, revise weak areas, and challenge yourself with 9 customized practice modes.

Chapter Overview

Welcome to Class XI Mathematics: Linear Inequalities. This chapter forms a core structural component of the math syllabus, designed to build analytical rigor and key formula models.

Use the detailed subtopic guide below to review standard definitions, key mathematical rules, and study guidelines.

Prerequisite Concepts

Linear Equations in Two VariablesCoordinate Geometry

Detailed Subtopics Study Guide

Review detailed conceptual explanations, mathematical equations, and guidelines for each subtopic in this chapter:

1Algebraic solutions of linear inequalities in one variable

Concept Explanation

Solving linear inequalities involves isolating the variable similarly to equations. However, multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative number reverses the direction of the inequality sign.

Mathematical Representation
ax + b < c \implies ax < c - b \implies \begin{cases} x < \frac{c-b}{a} & a>0 \\ x > \frac{c-b}{a} & a<0 \end{cases}
Study Guideline: Always reverse the inequality sign (e.g. < becomes >) when multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative value.

2Graphical representation of inequalities in two variables

Concept Explanation

To graph an inequality in two variables, plot the boundary line ax + by = c. Use a solid line for ≤ or ≥, and a dashed line for < or >. Shade the region that satisfies the inequality (determined by testing a point like (0,0)).

Mathematical Representation
ax + by \le c \implies \text{Shade region containing } (0,0) \text{ if } c \ge 0
Study Guideline: Test the origin (0,0) in the inequality. If it yields a true statement, shade the half-plane containing (0,0); otherwise, shade the opposite side.

3Feasible boundary region

Concept Explanation

The feasible region is the common overlapping region shaded on a graph that satisfies a system of multiple linear inequalities simultaneously. It represents the set of all possible solutions.

Mathematical Representation
R = \bigcap_{i} \{ (x,y) \mid a_i x + b_i y \le c_i \}
Study Guideline: The feasible region must satisfy all constraints, including non-negativity constraints (x ≥ 0, y ≥ 0), which restrict the region to Quadrant I.