Oblique asymptotes of a rational function

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding oblique asymptotes of a rational function, specifically when the function is expressed as f(x)=P(x)/Q(x) with the degree of the numerator (n) being one higher than that of the denominator (m). To derive the oblique asymptote, the rational function is divided using long division, resulting in the form f(x)=ax+b+R(x)/Q(x), where R(x) is the remainder with a degree less than that of Q(x). Participants confirm that the slant asymptote can be determined by performing the division and discarding the remainder.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rational functions and their components
  • Knowledge of polynomial long division
  • Familiarity with the concepts of asymptotes in calculus
  • Ability to identify degrees of polynomials
NEXT STEPS
  • Practice polynomial long division with various rational functions
  • Study the properties of oblique asymptotes in greater detail
  • Explore examples of rational functions with different degrees
  • Learn about horizontal and vertical asymptotes for comprehensive understanding
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on rational functions and asymptotic behavior, as well as educators teaching these concepts in mathematics courses.

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Homework Statement



To find the oblique asymptotes of a rational function

(i) [itex]f(x)=\frac{P(x)}{Q(x)}=\frac{a_{n}x^{n}+a_{n-1}x^{n-1}+...+a_{0}x^{0}}{b_{m}x^{m}+b_{m-1}x^{m-1}+...+b_{0}x^{0}}[/itex]

where [itex]n=m+1[/itex]

we exprese it in a form

(ii) [itex]f(x)=ax+b+\frac{R(x)}{Q(x)}[/itex] using long division (my book says). The degree of R is less than the degree of Q.

Q.: How? Does one have to divide (i) and then add? How is the [itex]f(x)=ax+b+\frac{R(x)}{Q(x)}[/itex] obtained?

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Those generalized expressions make my eyes bleed. You'll have a slant asymptote if the degree of the numerator is one higher than the denominator. To find out what it is, just divide the fraction and discard the remainder. This expression will be your slant asmptote.
 

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