Math Problem Statement

Determine the horizontal asymptote of the function: f(x) = (3x^5 - 8x^3) / (4x^4 + 7x^3). If none exists, state that fact.

Solution

To find the horizontal asymptote of the function

f(x)=3x58x34x4+7x3f(x) = \frac{3x^5 - 8x^3}{4x^4 + 7x^3}

we follow these steps:

  1. Compare the Degrees:

    • The degree of the numerator is 55 (highest power of xx in 3x53x^5).
    • The degree of the denominator is 44 (highest power of xx in 4x44x^4).
  2. Determine Asymptote:

    • If the degree of the numerator is greater than the degree of the denominator, the function has no horizontal asymptote. Instead, there is a slant (or oblique) asymptote.
    • Here, the degree of the numerator (5) is greater than the degree of the denominator (4). Therefore, there is no horizontal asymptote.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Related Questions

  1. What is the difference between a horizontal and a slant asymptote?
  2. How do you find the slant asymptote for this function?
  3. What are the vertical asymptotes, if any, for this function?
  4. How would the asymptotes change if the degrees of the numerator and denominator were equal?
  5. What does the behavior of the function look like as xx \to \infty or xx \to -\infty?

Tip

Remember, when determining asymptotes, always start by comparing the degrees of the numerator and the denominator for quick insights!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Asymptotes
Rational Functions
Limits
Degree of Polynomials

Formulas

Horizontal asymptote criteria based on degrees of numerator and denominator

Theorems

If degree of numerator > degree of denominator, there is no horizontal asymptote

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12