Vertical asymptotes most frequently show up in rational functions. When a rational function, f(x), has a non-zero constant in the numerator and an expression with a variable in the denominator, the function f(x) will have vertical asymptotes at all values of x that make the denominator 0. If the denominator has no roots, then f(x) will have no vertical asymptotes.This works for the same reason that 1⁄x has a vertical asymptote at zero: the numerator is a non-zero constant and the denominator is getting smaller and smaller, therefore the fraction will get bigger and bigger.
If we use a different constant, the principle is still the same.
If a rational function has something besides a non-zero constant in the numerator, we may need to be creative: factor the numerator and denominator, cancel and common factors, and find the roots of whatever polynomial remains in the denominator after factoring.
Be Careful: Remember to simplify the rational functions.
Example 1
Let |
Example 2
Let |
Example 3
Let |
Example 4
Let f(x) = 5x2 + 3. Find the vertical asymptote(s) of f, if there are any. |
Example 5
Find the vertical asymptotes of |
Exercise 1
Find all vertical asymptotes, if any, for the function.
Exercise 2
Find all vertical asymptotes, if any, for the function.
Exercise 3
Find all vertical asymptotes, if any, for the function.
Exercise 4
Find all vertical asymptotes, if any, for the function.
Exercise 5
Find all vertical asymptotes, if any, for the function.
Exercise 6
- What function is
pretending to be near x = 7?
Exercise 7
- What function is
pretending to be near x = 4?
Exercise 8
- What function is
pretending to be near x = -9?
Exercise 9
Find the vertical asymptote(s) (if any) for the function.
Exercise 10
Find the vertical asymptote(s) (if any) for the function.
Exercise 11
Find the vertical asymptote(s) (if any) for the function.
Exercise 12
Find the vertical asymptote(s) (if any) for the function.
Exercise 13
Find the vertical asymptote(s) (if any) for the function.