Vertical Asymptotes of x^3/(x^2+3x-10): -5 & 2

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the vertical asymptotes of the function x^3/(x^2+3x-10). The original poster identifies -5 and 2 as vertical asymptotes but seeks clarification on the behavior of the function as it approaches these points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand the limits as x approaches -5 from both sides and questions how the signs affect the limits leading to positive or negative infinity.
  • Some participants discuss the behavior of the function around the asymptotes and suggest examining the signs of the function to determine the limits.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the limits and signs of the function as it approaches the vertical asymptotes. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of signs to determine the behavior of the function, but there is no explicit consensus on the calculations or interpretations yet.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses uncertainty about the calculations and the behavior of the function near the asymptotes, indicating a need for further clarification on the algebra involved.

ladyrae
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Help!
My problem asks to find the vertical asymptotes of x^3/(x^2+3x-10)

I found –5 & 2 to be vertical asymptotes but what I can’t figure out is
how as x->-5- = -oo and x->-5+ = +oo

I have calculated lim x->-5+ x^3/(x^2+3x-10) = -125/(0)(-5 - -2) = -125/-0 = +oo

But I don’t see –oo lim x->+5+ x^3/(x^2+3x-10) = ?

Can you show me the algebra and how the signs work out to give me –oo

Thanks
 
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Maybe?

I think i have it ...

lim x-> -5+ x^3/(x^2+3x-10) = +oo since x^3/(x+5)(x-2) > 0 for x > -5

and lim x->-5- x^3/(x^2+3x-10) = -oo since x^3/(x+5)(x-2) < 0 for x < -5
 
Didn't look at the actual math, but that's the general idea. You can nomrally if it's going to approach an infinity, then look at the signs to tell whether it would be positive or negative.
 
Looking at the graph is always (almost) helpful.
 

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