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Detailed Rational Functions Lesson and Worksheet

The document explains rational functions, which are formed by dividing one polynomial by another, and their key characteristics including intercepts, zeros, and asymptotes. It provides methods for finding y-intercepts, x-intercepts, vertical and horizontal asymptotes, and oblique asymptotes, along with examples for clarity. Additionally, a student worksheet is included with exercises to practice identifying these features in given rational functions.

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Romulo Jr. Brazas
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45 views3 pages

Detailed Rational Functions Lesson and Worksheet

The document explains rational functions, which are formed by dividing one polynomial by another, and their key characteristics including intercepts, zeros, and asymptotes. It provides methods for finding y-intercepts, x-intercepts, vertical and horizontal asymptotes, and oblique asymptotes, along with examples for clarity. Additionally, a student worksheet is included with exercises to practice identifying these features in given rational functions.

Uploaded by

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

Intercepts, Zeros, and Asymptotes of

Rational Functions
Introduction
Rational functions are expressions that involve one polynomial divided by another. They
often appear in real-life applications such as physics, engineering, and economics,
particularly when analyzing ratios or rates. Understanding their key characteristics—
intercepts, zeros, and asymptotes—allows us to understand their behavior graphically and
algebraically.

What is a Rational Function?


A rational function is a function of the form:
f(x) = P(x) / Q(x),
where P(x) and Q(x) are polynomial functions and Q(x) ≠ 0. The function is undefined
wherever Q(x) = 0.

Intercepts and Zeros

Y-Intercept
The y-intercept of a function is the point where the graph crosses the y-axis. This occurs
when x = 0. To find the y-intercept, substitute x = 0 into the rational function and simplify.
Example: For f(x) = (x + 1)/(x - 2), y-intercept is f(0) = (0 + 1)/(0 - 2) = -1/2. So the y-
intercept is (0, -1/2).

X-Intercepts or Zeros
X-intercepts (or zeros) are the values of x where the function equals zero (i.e., f(x) = 0).
These occur where the numerator is zero, as long as the denominator is not zero at that
point.
Steps:
1. Set the numerator equal to zero and solve for x.
2. Check that these values do not also make the denominator zero.
Example: f(x) = (x^2 - 4)/(x - 3)
Numerator: x^2 - 4 = 0 → x = ±2 (possible x-intercepts)
Denominator: x ≠ 3 → both x = 2 and x = -2 are valid x-intercepts.
Asymptotes

Vertical Asymptotes (VAs)


Vertical asymptotes are vertical lines where the function approaches infinity or negative
infinity. They occur at x-values where the denominator is zero, and the numerator is not
zero.
To find VAs: Set Q(x) = 0 and solve for x.
Example: f(x) = 1/(x - 5) → VA at x = 5

Horizontal Asymptotes (HAs)


Horizontal asymptotes describe the end behavior of a function as x → ±∞.
To determine the HA, compare the degrees of the numerator (N) and the denominator (D):
- If N < D → HA is y = 0
- If N = D → HA is the ratio of the leading coefficients
- If N > D → No HA (may have an oblique/slant asymptote)
Example: f(x) = (2x^2 + 3)/(x^2 + 1) → Degrees are equal (2), so HA is y = 2/1 = 2

Oblique (Slant) Asymptotes


Occur when the degree of the numerator is exactly one more than the degree of the
denominator. Found using polynomial division.
Example: f(x) = (x^2 + x + 1)/(x + 1). Degree N = 2, D = 1 → use division to find oblique
asymptote.

Summary Table
• Y-Intercept: Let x = 0
• X-Intercept: Set numerator = 0 (as long as denominator ≠ 0)
• Vertical Asymptote: Set denominator = 0
• Horizontal Asymptote: Compare degrees of numerator and denominator
• Oblique Asymptote: When degree of numerator is one more than degree of denominator
Student Worksheet
1. Find the intercepts and asymptotes of f(x) = (x + 3)/(x - 2).

2. Analyze f(x) = (x^2 - 1)/(x^2 - 4) and determine all intercepts and asymptotes.

3. Find the vertical and horizontal asymptotes of f(x) = 5x / (x^2 + 2).

4. Determine any holes, intercepts, and asymptotes for f(x) = (x^2 - 4)/(x - 2).

5. Analyze f(x) = (3x^2 + x - 2)/(x + 1). Find all intercepts and asymptotes.

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