Which inequality represents the compound inequality $x > 3$ and $x < 5$?
The problem asks to represent the compound inequality \(x > 3\) and \(x < 5\) in a standard compressed notation. A compound inequality joined by "and" requires that the variable \(x\) satisfies both given conditions simultaneously. This means \(x\) must be strictly greater than \(3\) and strictly less than \(5\).
We can analyze the two parts of the condition:
By combining these two parts into a single expression, we write the values in ascending order relative to \(x\). Since \(3 < x\) and \(x < 5\), we can merge them into the single chain \(3 < x < 5\). This notation compactly expresses that \(x\) lies strictly between \(3\) and \(5\).
The inequality that represents the condition where \(x\) is strictly greater than \(3\) and strictly less than \(5\) is \(3 < x < 5\). This matches the given option. Therefore, the equivalent representation is \(\boxed{3 < x < 5}\).
Compound inequalities are frequently used in engineering and manufacturing to specify tolerances for parts. For example, if a machine part is designed to have a length \(L\) such that it fits correctly in an assembly, it might need to satisfy \(9.95 \text{ cm} < L < 10.05 \text{ cm}\). Using the compressed notation \(9.95 < L < 10.05\) ensures that the measurement is within the acceptable range, helping quality control engineers quickly interpret whether a part meets specifications.