Vertical Asymptote at x=-6: Exploring the Possibility with f(-6) = 3

  • Thread starter Loppyfoot
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In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of vertical asymptotes and their relationship to the value of a function at a specific point. It is possible for there to be a vertical asymptote at x=-6, even if f(-6) is defined. An example function is provided to illustrate this. The conversation also touches on the concept of limits and finding the limit of a piecewise function at a specific point. In order for a limit to exist, both one-sided limits must exist and be equal. Therefore, to find the limit, one must find the limits approaching the point from both the left and right sides.
  • #1
Loppyfoot
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Homework Statement


If f(-6) = 3, is it possible for there to be a vertical asymptote at x=-6?
The limit as x approaches -6 is positive infinity, but there f(-6) is defined by the value of -3. Or, since VAs refer to the line, the fact that f(-6) doesn't matter?
 
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  • #2
How f is defined at x = -6 doesn't matter.

Here is an example function that has the behavior you describe.

f(x) = 1/(x + 6), if x != -6
f(x) = 3, if x = -6

This function has a vert. asymptote at x = -6, even though f(-6) is defined.
 
  • #3
Thanks!
Another question:
For the piecewise,
f(x){-x+1 , 0<=x<1
{1, 1<=x<2
What is the limit as x approaches 1?

Do I do?
-x+1 = 1
-x=0
x=0?
So 0+1 = 1
and 1
So the limit is 1? Or does it not exist?
 
  • #4
For a limit to exist, both one-sided limits must exist and must be equal.
So you need to find these limits:
[tex]\lim_{x \rightarrow 1^+}f(x)[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \rightarrow 1^-}f(x)[/tex]
If both exist and are equal, then
[tex]\lim_{x \rightarrow 1}f(x)[/tex]
exists and is equal to the common value.
 

1. What is a vertical asymptote?

A vertical asymptote is a vertical line that a function approaches but never touches as the input (x) approaches a certain value. This value is often referred to as the "asymptote." In this case, the asymptote is at x=-6.

2. How can a function have an asymptote at a specific value?

A function can have an asymptote at a specific value if the function approaches a vertical line as the input approaches that value. This can happen when there is a hole or gap in the graph of the function at that point, or when the function approaches infinity at that point.

3. What does it mean for f(-6) to equal 3 in relation to the vertical asymptote?

When f(-6) equals 3, it means that the function has a specific output (y) value of 3 when the input (x) is -6. This does not necessarily have any direct relation to the vertical asymptote, but it can help us understand the behavior of the function near the asymptote.

4. Can a function have more than one vertical asymptote?

Yes, a function can have multiple vertical asymptotes. This can happen when there are multiple points where the function approaches a vertical line, or when there are multiple "gaps" in the graph of the function.

5. How do we graph a function with a vertical asymptote?

To graph a function with a vertical asymptote, first plot any points that are given or can be found by plugging in specific values for x. Then, use the asymptote as a guide to draw the rest of the graph. The function will approach the asymptote but never touch it, so the graph will have a break or gap at the asymptote. Additionally, the behavior of the function near the asymptote can be determined by looking at the value of f(x) at points near the asymptote.

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