Math Problem Statement

Identify the vertical, horizontal asymptote, x and y intercept. Graph the function. Label the graph accordingly. SHOW ALL WORK. f(x) = (3x + 3) / (2x - 4)

Solution

Let's analyze the given function and determine the requested characteristics.

The function provided is:

f(x)=3x+32x4f(x) = \frac{3x + 3}{2x - 4}

We are asked to identify the vertical asymptote, horizontal asymptote, and intercepts of this function.

Step 1: Vertical Asymptote

Vertical asymptotes occur where the denominator equals zero, as long as the numerator is not zero at the same point.

Set the denominator equal to zero:

2x4=02x - 4 = 0

Solve for xx:

2x=4x=22x = 4 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = 2

So, the vertical asymptote is at x=2x = 2.

Step 2: Horizontal Asymptote

To determine the horizontal asymptote, we compare the degrees of the numerator and denominator.

  • The degree of the numerator is 1 (since the highest power of xx is x1x^1).
  • The degree of the denominator is also 1 (since the highest power of xx is x1x^1).

When the degrees of the numerator and denominator are equal, the horizontal asymptote is given by the ratio of the leading coefficients. The leading coefficient of the numerator is 3, and the leading coefficient of the denominator is 2. Therefore, the horizontal asymptote is:

y=32y = \frac{3}{2}

Step 3: Y-intercept

The y-intercept occurs when x=0x = 0. Substitute x=0x = 0 into the function:

f(0)=3(0)+32(0)4=34=34f(0) = \frac{3(0) + 3}{2(0) - 4} = \frac{3}{-4} = -\frac{3}{4}

So, the y-intercept is at (0,34)(0, -\frac{3}{4}).

Step 4: X-intercept

The x-intercept occurs when f(x)=0f(x) = 0. Set the numerator equal to zero:

3x+3=03x + 3 = 0

Solve for xx:

3x=3x=13x = -3 \quad \Rightarrow \quad x = -1

So, the x-intercept is at (1,0)(-1, 0).

Final Answer:

  • Vertical Asymptote: x=2x = 2
  • Horizontal Asymptote: y=32y = \frac{3}{2}
  • Y-intercept: (0,34)(0, -\frac{3}{4})
  • X-intercept: (1,0)(-1, 0)

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational Functions
Asymptotes
Intercepts

Formulas

Vertical Asymptote: Set the denominator equal to zero.
Horizontal Asymptote: Compare degrees of numerator and denominator.
Intercepts: Set x = 0 for y-intercept, set numerator = 0 for x-intercept.

Theorems

Vertical asymptotes occur where the denominator of a rational function equals zero.
Horizontal asymptotes depend on the degrees of the numerator and denominator.

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12