Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
5. Rational Functions
Graphing Rational Functions
Problem 66b
Textbook Question
Graph each rational function. ƒ(x)=(4x-2)/(3x+1)

1
Identify the vertical asymptote by setting the denominator equal to zero: \(3x + 1 = 0\). Solve for \(x\).
Determine the horizontal asymptote by comparing the degrees of the numerator and the denominator. Since both are linear (degree 1), the horizontal asymptote is \(y = \frac{4}{3}\).
Find the x-intercept by setting the numerator equal to zero: \(4x - 2 = 0\). Solve for \(x\).
Find the y-intercept by evaluating \(f(0)\). Substitute \(x = 0\) into the function and simplify.
Plot the asymptotes, intercepts, and sketch the graph, considering the behavior of the function as \(x\) approaches the asymptotes.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Functions
A rational function is a function that can be expressed as the ratio of two polynomials. In the case of ƒ(x)=(4x-2)/(3x+1), the numerator is a polynomial of degree 1 and the denominator is also a polynomial of degree 1. Understanding the structure of rational functions is essential for analyzing their behavior, including identifying asymptotes and intercepts.
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Asymptotes
Asymptotes are lines that a graph approaches but never touches. For rational functions, vertical asymptotes occur where the denominator equals zero, while horizontal asymptotes describe the behavior of the function as x approaches infinity. In the function ƒ(x)=(4x-2)/(3x+1), identifying these asymptotes helps in sketching the graph accurately.
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Intercepts
Intercepts are points where the graph of a function crosses the axes. The x-intercept occurs when the function equals zero, which can be found by setting the numerator to zero, while the y-intercept is found by evaluating the function at x=0. For ƒ(x)=(4x-2)/(3x+1), calculating these intercepts is crucial for understanding the function's graph.
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