Finding Intercepts for y Equations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the intercepts of several equations in the form of rational functions. The equations under consideration include y = 1 / (x - 1), y = 2 / (x + 1), and y = 3 / (2x + 3). Participants are exploring how to determine both x and y intercepts for these functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning whether the focus is on y-intercepts, x-intercepts, or both. There is discussion about the meaning of intercepts and how to find them by setting y to zero for x-intercepts and x to zero for y-intercepts. Some suggest equating the equations to find intersections, while others emphasize the need for clarity in the equations presented.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing various insights and suggestions on how to approach the problem. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the equations and the methods to find intercepts. Some participants have offered tips on solving the equations, while others are clarifying the definitions and processes involved.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of potential confusion regarding the formatting of the equations, which may affect the interpretation of the problem. Participants are also noting the importance of using parentheses for clarity in mathematical expressions.

JakePearson
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hey guys, stuck on a few question, but dnt tell me the answer, direct me please :)

how do i find the intercepts for;

1. y = 1 / x -1
2. y = 2 / x + 1
3. y = 3 / 2x + 3

cheers guys :):)
 
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JakePearson said:
hey guys, stuck on a few question, but dnt tell me the answer, direct me please :)

how do i find the intercepts for;

1. y = 1 / x -1
2. y = 2 / x + 1
3. y = 3 / 2x + 3

cheers guys :):)

You mean the y intercept or the x intercept, or both? What does it mean for a graph to intercept an axis? What is the value of x at the y intercept(s)? What is the value of y at the x intercept(s)?
 
how do i find x and y intercepts
 
I think he means intersections of the curves

Equate equation (1) and (2)
Then (1) and (3)
Then (2) and (3)

Solve each equation individually to find all the x's and then plug them into find the y's.

Tips:
Multiply by the LCD(least common denominator).
You will probably end up with some quadratic equation.
 
thanks, but how do i solve them, so ur saying 4 example;

y = 3 / 2x + 3 -> y = 3(2x + 3) is that what u mean ?
 
Hi JakePearson! :smile:
JakePearson said:
how do i find x and y intercepts

You mean the intercepts with the x and y axes?

Those axes are y = 0 and x = 0 … soooo … you put y = 0 and solve for x, and x = 0 and solve for y. :smile:

(oh, and the answer might be ∞)
 
Pinu7 said:
I think he means intersections of the curves

Equate equation (1) and (2)
Then (1) and (3)
Then (2) and (3)

Solve each equation individually to find all the x's and then plug them into find the y's.

Tips:
Multiply by the LCD(least common denominator).
You will probably end up with some quadratic equation.

This isn't correct.

Also, to JakePearson, please use parentheses. Otherwise, we are guessing as to what equations you posted. Do you mean

1. y = (1/x) -1
2. y = (2/x) + 1
3. y = (3/(2x)) + 3

or

1. y = 1/(x-1)
2. y = 2/(x+1)
3. y = 3/(2x+3)

To elaborate on tiny-tim's good advice: to find the y-intercepts (the points where the curve intersects the y-axis, which is x=0), you set x=0 and then solve for y. Then those y values give you the y-intercepts, but list them as ordered pairs, i.e. (0,y) for each y value you find.

To find the x-intercepts, it's a similar process: set y=0 (which is the x-axis) and then solve for x. Now all your x-intercepts are listed as (x,0).
 

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