Math Problem Statement

Analyze the graph of a rational function to determine vertical and horizontal asymptotes, intercepts, and the domain and range of the function.

Solution

Let's break down the problem based on the provided graph.

(a) Vertical and Horizontal Asymptotes:

  1. Vertical Asymptote: This is where the graph approaches a vertical line but never touches it. From the graph, it appears that the graph approaches the line x=2x = -2, so: Vertical asymptote(s): x=2\text{Vertical asymptote(s): } x = -2

  2. Horizontal Asymptote: The horizontal asymptote is the horizontal line that the graph approaches as xx goes to infinity. The graph seems to approach y=1y = 1, so: Horizontal asymptote(s): y=1\text{Horizontal asymptote(s): } y = 1

(b) X-intercepts and Y-intercepts:

  • X-intercepts: The x-intercepts occur where the graph crosses the x-axis, i.e., where y=0y = 0. The graph intersects the x-axis at x=1x = 1, so: X-intercept(s): x=1\text{X-intercept(s): } x = 1
  • Y-intercepts: The y-intercept is where the graph crosses the y-axis, i.e., where x=0x = 0. The graph intersects the y-axis at y=3y = -3, so: Y-intercept(s): y=3\text{Y-intercept(s): } y = -3

(c) Domain and Range:

  1. Domain: The domain of the function is all the values of xx for which the function is defined. The graph is undefined at x=2x = -2 (due to the vertical asymptote), so the domain is all real numbers except x=2x = -2. In interval notation: Domain: (,2)(2,)\text{Domain: } (-\infty, -2) \cup (-2, \infty)

  2. Range: The range is the set of all possible values of yy. The function approaches but never reaches y=1y = 1 (due to the horizontal asymptote), so the range excludes y=1y = 1. In interval notation: Range: (,1)(1,)\text{Range: } (-\infty, 1) \cup (1, \infty)

Let me know if you need more details on any part of this explanation!


Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How would the function change if the horizontal asymptote were at y=2y = 2 instead of y=1y = 1?
  2. What happens to the domain if there is a "hole" in the graph?
  3. Can a rational function have more than one vertical asymptote? Explain.
  4. How would you find the equation of a rational function given its asymptotes and intercepts?
  5. How does the graph of a rational function behave near an asymptote?

Tip: When finding intercepts, always set the other variable (x or y) to 0 in the equation of the function!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Rational Functions
Asymptotes
Intercepts
Domain and Range

Formulas

Vertical Asymptote: x = constant
Horizontal Asymptote: y = constant
Intercepts: Solve for when y = 0 for x-intercept and x = 0 for y-intercept

Theorems

Behavior of Rational Functions near Asymptotes
Properties of Rational Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12