Math Problem Statement

Two copies of the same rational function are shown. The task is to draw the horizontal and vertical asymptotes and write their equations for the function f(x) = (-3x)/(x-2).

Solution

The image shows two rational functions, both the same function, f(x)=3xx2f(x) = \frac{-3x}{x-2}, with instructions to draw the horizontal and vertical asymptotes on separate graphs and write the equations for each asymptote.

Let's address each:

1. Horizontal Asymptote:

  • For rational functions, the horizontal asymptote is determined by comparing the degrees of the numerator and denominator. In this case, the degrees of both the numerator (-3x) and the denominator (x-2) are 1.
  • When the degrees are the same, the horizontal asymptote is given by the ratio of the leading coefficients.
    • Leading coefficient of the numerator: 3-3
    • Leading coefficient of the denominator: 11
    • Therefore, the horizontal asymptote is: y=31=3y = \frac{-3}{1} = -3

2. Vertical Asymptote:

  • The vertical asymptote occurs where the denominator equals zero, as the function becomes undefined at those points.
    • Set the denominator equal to zero: x2=0x - 2 = 0
    • Solving this gives x=2x = 2.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational Functions
Asymptotes
Algebra

Formulas

Horizontal asymptote: y = a/b for rational functions with the same degree
Vertical asymptote: Set the denominator equal to zero

Theorems

The degree comparison rule for horizontal asymptotes
Undefined points in rational functions for vertical asymptotes

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11