Calculus: Find Formula for Rational Function w/ Asymptotes & x-intercept

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In summary, the conversation discusses finding a formula for a rational function with specific horizontal and vertical asymptotes and a single x-intercept at x = -5. The conversation also clarifies the definitions of horizontal and vertical asymptotes and reaches a solution for the function.
  • #1
Wierddemon
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I can't figure this question out, anyone have any ideas?

"Find a formula for a rational function whose horizontal asymptote is y = -8/3 and vertical asymptotes at x = -2 and x = 4 and whose ONLY x-intercept is at x = -5."
 
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  • #2
What is a horizontal asymptote? It is defined as a line [tex] y = L [/tex] such that:

[tex] \lim_{x\rightarrow \infty} f(x) = L [/tex] or
[tex] \lim_{x\rightarrow -\infty} f(x) = L [/tex].

A vertical asymptote is defined as a line [tex] x=a [/tex] such that [tex] \lim_{x\rightarrow a} f(x) = \infty [/tex]. (or [tex] -\infty [/tex]).

So one function is [tex] f(x) = \frac{-8x^{2}+200}{3(x-4)(x+2)} [/tex]
 
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  • #3
that isn't right because it never passes through x = -5
 
  • #4
yes it does. graph it, and look at the value at [tex] x = -5 [/tex].
 
  • #5
oh yeah, you're right, but it also has an x value of 5 and the only x-intercept should be -5
 

What is Calculus?

Calculus is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of change and motion. It is divided into two main branches: differential calculus and integral calculus.

What is a Rational Function?

A rational function is a mathematical expression that can be written as the ratio of two polynomial functions. It has the general form of f(x) = p(x)/q(x), where p(x) and q(x) are polynomial functions and q(x) is not equal to 0.

What are Asymptotes?

Asymptotes are imaginary lines that a graph approaches, but never touches. In a rational function, the vertical asymptotes are the values of x that make the denominator of the function equal to 0, while the horizontal asymptote is the value that the function approaches as x approaches infinity or negative infinity.

How do you find the Formula for a Rational Function with Asymptotes and x-intercept?

To find the formula for a rational function with given asymptotes and x-intercept, you will need to use the general form of a rational function, f(x) = p(x)/q(x), and substitute the given values into the equation. You will also need to make sure that the x-intercept is not equal to one of the asymptotes, otherwise the function will not be defined at that point.

Can Calculus be used to solve real-world problems?

Yes, calculus is widely used in various fields such as physics, engineering, economics, and statistics to solve real-world problems involving rates of change, optimization, and motion. It is a powerful tool for modeling and analyzing complex systems and is essential for understanding the world around us.

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