Graphing 1/x: A Quicker Alternative

[vanmaiden]

Homework Statement

What is an easier way to graph 1/x? How I am currently doing it is in the "The attempt as a solution" section.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

The current way I graph some hyperbola like the one mentioned is by first finding the asymptotes. Then, I plug in some x-values and find out where, relative to the asymptotes, the points lie which will show where the curves are. Basically, my method involves plugging and chugging x-values which will show where the curves are on the coordinate plane. I was hoping there was an easier way to do this.

 

[Punkyc7]

Use a graphing calculator... this is one of those graphs you just memorize

 

[vanmaiden]

Use a graphing calculator... this is one of those graphs you just memorize

I have one of those. I just don't like remembering things for the sake of remembering :S

 

[Punkyc7]

you could just think about what happens when x gets very small or x gets very large. So check
x\rightarrow0+
x\rightarrow infinity
x \rightarrow 0-
x\rightarrow negative inifinity

 

[vanmaiden]

you could just think about what happens when x gets very small or x gets very large. So check
x\rightarrow0+
x\rightarrow infinity
x \rightarrow 0-
x\rightarrow negative inifinity

That's kind of how I was doing it. I guess that's the only real way to get it done lol. Thank you