The number line shows the graph of an inequality:

a number line is shown from negative 5 to positive 5 with increments of 0.5. all the whole numbers are labeled on the number line. an empty circle is shown on the fifth mark to the left of 0. the region to the left of the empty circle is shaded.

which statement explains whether −3.5 can be a value in the shaded region?

yes it can, because −3.5 lies to the right of −2.5
yes it can, because −3.5 lies to the left of −2.5
no it cannot, because −3.5 lies to the left of −2.5
no it cannot, because −3.5 lies to the right of −2.5