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2 5+Rational+Functions

This document covers the analysis and graphing of rational functions, including their characteristics such as domain, asymptotes, and intercepts. It also explains how to solve rational equations by using the least common denominator and provides examples for practice. Additionally, it includes homework assignments related to identifying asymptotes and graphing functions.

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cchelseachan1109
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2 views5 pages

2 5+Rational+Functions

This document covers the analysis and graphing of rational functions, including their characteristics such as domain, asymptotes, and intercepts. It also explains how to solve rational equations by using the least common denominator and provides examples for practice. Additionally, it includes homework assignments related to identifying asymptotes and graphing functions.

Uploaded by

cchelseachan1109
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Pre-Calculus

2.5 Rational Functions

Learning Goals
• Analyze and graph rational functions
• Solve rational equations

A rational function f (x) is the quotient of two polynomial functions a(x) and b(x) where b(x) ≠ 0.
a(x)
f (x) = , b(x) ≠ 0
b(x)
Characteristics of Rational Functions
Let n be the degree of a(x), and let m be the degree of b(x).

• Domain: All real numbers except for values where b(x) = 0


• Vertical Asymptote: May occur at the real zeros of b(x). Can never be crossed.
• Horizontal Asymptote:
• If n < m, the horizontal asymptote is y = 0
leading coefficient of n
If n = m, the horizontal asymptote is y =
• leading coefficient of m
• If n > m, there is no horizontal asymptote.
• Removable discontinuities (hole): Occurs if there are common factors between a(x) and b(x)
other than 1.
• x-intercepts: If any, occurs at the real zeros of a(x).
• y-intercept: If it exists, occurs at f (0)

(2x − 1)(x + 1)
1) Determine any asymptotes and intercepts for f (x) = , then sketch the
(x + 1)(x + 3)
function and state its domain.
Oblique Asymptotes
If n = m + 1, the equation of the oblique/slant asymptote is the quotient polynomial q(x) of f (x).
a(x) r (x)
ie. = q(x) +
b(x) b(x)
x2 + 1
2) Determine any asymptotes and intercepts for f (x) = . Then sketch the function and
x−2
state its domain.
Solving Rational Equations
Rational equations involving fractions can be solved by multiplying each term in the equation by
the least common denominator (LCD) of all the terms of the equation. Always check your
solutions to a rational equation as some may be extraneous.

3) Solve each equation.


8
a) x − = 11
x−4

x +1 5x 1
b) = +
3(x − 2) 6 x−2
15
c) − m + 8 = 10
m

3 7 −4
d) + =
x +1 2−x x−1

Homework
2.5 Homework #4-5
2.5 Delta math
2.5 Homework
For each function, determine any asymptotes, holes, and intercepts. Then graph the
function and state its domain.
5x 2 − 10x + 1 x2 + x − 6
4) f (x) = 5) f (x) =
x−2 x +1

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