Follow the seven steps to graph each rational function. f(x)=2x2/(x2+4)
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- 0. Review of Algebra4h 18m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations1h 43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 5m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 22m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
5. Rational Functions
Graphing Rational Functions
Problem 87
Textbook Question
In Exercises 81–88, a. Find the slant asymptote of the graph of each rational function and b. Follow the seven-step strategy and use the slant asymptote to graph each rational function. f(x)=(x3+1)/(x2+2x)
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the degrees of the numerator and denominator. The numerator is \(x^{3} + 1\) (degree 3) and the denominator is \(x^{2} + 2x\) (degree 2). Since the degree of the numerator is exactly one more than the degree of the denominator, a slant (oblique) asymptote exists.
Step 2: Perform polynomial long division to divide the numerator \(x^{3} + 1\) by the denominator \(x^{2} + 2x\). This will give you a quotient (which represents the slant asymptote) and a remainder.
Step 3: Write the quotient from the division as the equation of the slant asymptote. The slant asymptote will be of the form \(y = \) (quotient polynomial).
Step 4: Use the seven-step strategy to analyze the function: (1) Find the domain by identifying values that make the denominator zero, (2) Find intercepts by setting numerator and denominator equal to zero appropriately, (3) Determine vertical asymptotes from the denominator zeros, (4) Find the slant asymptote from the division, (5) Analyze end behavior using the slant asymptote, (6) Plot key points and asymptotes, (7) Sketch the graph using all gathered information.
Step 5: Use the slant asymptote as a guide for the end behavior of the graph, noting that as \(x\) approaches infinity or negative infinity, the graph of \(f(x)\) will approach the slant asymptote line.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Slant (Oblique) Asymptotes
A slant asymptote occurs when the degree of the numerator is exactly one more than the degree of the denominator in a rational function. It represents the line that the graph approaches as x approaches infinity or negative infinity. Finding the slant asymptote involves polynomial division to express the function as a linear term plus a remainder over the denominator.
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Polynomial Long Division
Polynomial long division is a method used to divide one polynomial by another, similar to numerical long division. It helps rewrite a rational function into a quotient plus a remainder, which is essential for identifying slant asymptotes. The quotient gives the equation of the slant asymptote when the numerator's degree is one higher than the denominator's.
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Introduction to Polynomials
Graphing Rational Functions Using Asymptotes
Graphing rational functions involves understanding their asymptotes, intercepts, and behavior near undefined points. The slant asymptote guides the end behavior of the graph, showing how the function behaves for large values of x. Following a step-by-step strategy ensures accurate plotting by considering intercepts, asymptotes, and test points.
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