In Exercises 73–74, use the graph of the rational function to solve each inequality. 1/4(x + 2) ≤ - 3/4(x - 2)
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Step 1: Identify the rational function from the graph. The given function is \( \frac{x + 1}{x^2 - 4} \).
Step 2: Determine the vertical asymptotes by setting the denominator equal to zero and solving for x. \( x^2 - 4 = 0 \).
Step 3: Solve the equation \( x^2 - 4 = 0 \) to find the vertical asymptotes. This gives \( x = 2 \) and \( x = -2 \).
Step 4: Determine the horizontal asymptote by comparing the degrees of the numerator and the denominator. Since the degree of the denominator is higher, the horizontal asymptote is \( y = 0 \).
Step 5: Analyze the graph to determine the intervals where the function is positive or negative. Use the vertical asymptotes and the behavior of the function around these points to solve the inequality.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Functions
A rational function is a function represented by the ratio of two polynomials. The general form is f(x) = P(x)/Q(x), where P and Q are polynomials. Understanding rational functions is crucial for analyzing their behavior, including asymptotes, intercepts, and intervals of increase or decrease, which are essential for solving inequalities.
Asymptotes are lines that a graph approaches but never touches. There are vertical asymptotes, which occur where the denominator of a rational function is zero, and horizontal asymptotes, which describe the behavior of the function as x approaches infinity. Identifying asymptotes helps in understanding the limits and overall shape of the graph, which is vital for solving inequalities.
Inequalities express a relationship where one side is not equal to the other, using symbols like <, >, ≤, or ≥. When solving inequalities involving rational functions, it is important to determine where the function is greater than or less than a certain value. This often involves analyzing the sign of the function across different intervals, which can be visualized using the graph.