Math Problem Statement

can you identify the graph?

Can you identify the graph?

Solution

To identify the correct graph of the given function, let me first analyze the equation. The function provided in the image appears to be:

f(x)=2xx25f(x) = \frac{2x}{x^2 - 5}

Now, let's discuss how this function behaves:

Key Points to Consider:

  1. Vertical Asymptotes: Vertical asymptotes occur where the denominator is zero. Set the denominator equal to zero: x25=0    x=±5x^2 - 5 = 0 \implies x = \pm \sqrt{5} Therefore, vertical asymptotes will occur at x=5x = \sqrt{5} and x=5x = -\sqrt{5}.

  2. Horizontal Asymptote: The degree of the numerator and denominator are the same (both are degree 2 if simplified), so the horizontal asymptote is determined by the ratio of the leading coefficients. In this case, it is: y=0y = 0 This is the horizontal asymptote as xx approaches infinity.

  3. Behavior Near Asymptotes: The graph will approach these asymptotes but never touch them. The function could exhibit a reflection, depending on the values of xx.

Based on these key features, we can now identify the graph.

From the graphs provided (Graph A through Graph F), the correct graph will have:

  • Vertical asymptotes at x=±5x = \pm \sqrt{5},
  • A horizontal asymptote at y=0y = 0,
  • And the general behavior (shape) of a rational function.

After carefully inspecting the images of the graphs, Graph E appears to match this behavior.

Would you like further details on any part of the analysis? Here are five follow-up questions to consider:

  1. How do vertical asymptotes affect the shape of a graph?
  2. What is the relationship between the degrees of the numerator and denominator for determining horizontal asymptotes?
  3. How does the function behave near zero?
  4. Can you explain why the graph doesn't touch its asymptotes?
  5. How would the graph change if we adjusted the function's coefficients?

Tip: Always start by analyzing asymptotes when graphing rational functions, as they provide critical boundaries for the graph's behavior.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational Functions
Asymptotes
Graphing
Algebra

Formulas

Vertical Asymptote Formula: Denominator = 0
Horizontal Asymptote Formula: Leading Coefficients Ratio

Theorems

Asymptote Theorem
Behavior of Rational Functions Near Asymptotes

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12