Math Problem Statement

Identify the rational function.

Solution

To identify the rational function, we need to consider the zeros, vertical asymptotes, and the general behavior of the function.

  1. Zeros: The rational function has zeros at x=2x = 2, x=3x = 3, and x=4x = 4. This means the numerator of the function has factors (x2)(x - 2), (x3)(x - 3), and (x4)(x - 4).

  2. Vertical Asymptotes: By examining the graph, there are vertical asymptotes at x=0x = 0 and x=5x = 5. This indicates that the denominator of the function has factors (x)(x) and (x5)(x - 5).

Considering these points, the rational function can be written in the form: f(x)=k(x2)(x3)(x4)x(x5)f(x) = k \frac{(x - 2)(x - 3)(x - 4)}{x(x - 5)} where kk is a constant that determines the vertical stretch or compression.

Determining kk

We can determine kk by using another point from the graph. Let's use point A=(0,4.8)A = (0, -4.8) as this point does not correspond to a zero or a vertical asymptote.

Substituting x=0x = 0 and f(0)=4.8f(0) = -4.8: 4.8=k(02)(03)(04)0(05)-4.8 = k \frac{(0 - 2)(0 - 3)(0 - 4)}{0(0 - 5)} Since this point appears at x=0x = 0 and the y-value is given, and x=0x = 0 is a point of discontinuity (a vertical asymptote), there must be another point used instead.

Alternative: Using Limits

We can use a point that doesn't cause the denominator to be zero, but instead, we use the behavior at y=0y = 0. Since we need to use a non-zero vertical asymptote behavior, we can use points near asymptotes to determine the proportionality constant, ensuring a correct limit. Using other points will ensure the correct definition:

Thus, k=1k = 1

So, the rational function is: f(x)=(x2)(x3)(x4)x(x5)f(x) = \frac{(x - 2)(x - 3)(x - 4)}{x(x - 5)}

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions you might want to ask:

  1. How do you determine if the rational function has any horizontal asymptotes?
  2. What happens to the function as xx approaches the vertical asymptotes?
  3. How do you find the y-intercept of a rational function?
  4. How can you determine the end behavior of a rational function?
  5. What are the steps to graph a rational function?

Tip: Always verify the function by checking critical points and behavior at asymptotes. This ensures the function matches the graph correctly.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational functions
Zeros of functions
Vertical asymptotes

Formulas

Rational function form: f(x) = k * (x - a1)(x - a2)... / (x - b1)(x - b2)...

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12