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Ch. 3 - Polynomial and Rational Functions
Chapter 4, Problem 9

Use the graphs of the rational functions in choices A–D to answer each question. There may be more than one correct choice. Which choices have domain (-∞, 3)U(3, ∞)?

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Key Concepts

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 be represented as f(x) = P(x)/Q(x), where P and Q are polynomials. Understanding their behavior, particularly how they approach asymptotes and their discontinuities, is crucial for analyzing their graphs and determining their domains.
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Domain of a Function

The domain of a function refers to the set of all possible input values (x-values) for which the function is defined. For rational functions, the domain is typically all real numbers except where the denominator equals zero, as these points create vertical asymptotes or holes in the graph.
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Interval Notation

Interval notation is a mathematical notation used to represent a range of values. The notation (-∞, 3) U (3, ∞) indicates that the domain includes all real numbers less than 3 and all real numbers greater than 3, explicitly excluding the value 3 itself. This notation is essential for clearly communicating the domain of functions.
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