Find asymptotes for rational functions

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The discussion revolves around finding asymptotes for the rational function f(x) = (x^2 - 1) / (x - 1). The function simplifies to f(x) = x + 1 for x ≠ 1, leading to confusion about the existence of asymptotes. It is clarified that while the limit as x approaches infinity shows f(x) approaches x + 1, this does not constitute an asymptote due to the removable discontinuity at x = 1. Therefore, the conclusion is that there are no asymptotes for this function. The key takeaway is understanding the distinction between a removable discontinuity and the definition of asymptotes.
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Homework Statement



Find asymptotes for f(x) = (x^2 -1) / (x - 1). (if exist)

Homework Equations



g(x) is a (horizontal or oblique) asymptote if lim |f(x) - g(x)| = 0
(here, lim is to be limit as x goes to infinity. don't know how to type it)

or

if q(x)/p(x) = g(x) + r(x)/p(x) where dimension of r(x) is smaller than that of p(x)

The Attempt at a Solution



f(x) = (x^2 - 1) / (x-1) = x+1 (where x ≠ 1)

then lim |f(x) - (x+1)| = 0 so asymptote is x+1.

But the answer is 'no asymptote'. What am I missing?
 
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If f(x) = (x^2 - 1) / (x-1) = x+1, the doesn't that just mean that f(x)=x+1 ? and that is what kind of graph?
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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