Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Functions
Rational functions are expressions formed by the ratio of two polynomials. They can exhibit unique behaviors such as asymptotes, intercepts, and discontinuities. Understanding the basic form of rational functions, like f(x) = 1/x or f(x) = 1/x^2, is crucial for analyzing their transformations and graphing them accurately.
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Transformations of Functions
Transformations involve shifting, reflecting, stretching, or compressing the graph of a function. For example, the function g(x) = 1/(x + 2)^2 - 1 represents a horizontal shift left by 2 units and a vertical shift down by 1 unit from the basic function f(x) = 1/x^2. Recognizing these transformations helps in predicting the shape and position of the graph.
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Domain & Range of Transformed Functions
Asymptotic Behavior
Asymptotic behavior refers to how a function behaves as it approaches certain values, particularly near vertical and horizontal asymptotes. For the function g(x), the vertical asymptote occurs at x = -2, where the function is undefined, and the horizontal asymptote is y = -1, indicating the value the function approaches as x approaches infinity. Understanding these concepts is essential for accurately graphing rational functions.
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