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1-04 Graphs of Rational Functions

The document explores the graphs of rational functions, emphasizing the importance of restrictions in the denominator that affect the domain. It includes examples and investigations using specific functions to illustrate concepts like vertical asymptotes and holes in the graph. Students are encouraged to use DESMOS for graphing and to analyze the behavior of the functions based on their restrictions.

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Naveed Jutt
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5 views2 pages

1-04 Graphs of Rational Functions

The document explores the graphs of rational functions, emphasizing the importance of restrictions in the denominator that affect the domain. It includes examples and investigations using specific functions to illustrate concepts like vertical asymptotes and holes in the graph. Students are encouraged to use DESMOS for graphing and to analyze the behavior of the functions based on their restrictions.

Uploaded by

Naveed Jutt
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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MCR3U – Algebraic Expressions Date:

Exploring Graphs of Rational Functions


Recall:
 A rational expression is a ratio of two polynomials
 There is a variable in the denominator that may produce a restriction
 The restrictions tell us about the specific criteria of the domain

Example 1 Sketch the two functions below.


a) 1 b) 1
𝑦= 𝑦=
𝑥 𝑥−3

What does restriction in the denominator tell you about each graph?

INVESTIGATION
PART A: Use the function f ( x)  x2  1 to complete the steps/questions below.
2

x 9
1. Simplify the rational function.
State any restriction(s) on the variable.

2. Use DESMOS to graph the function. Draw the graph here.


a) Does the graph have any vertical asymptotes? Where do they occur?

b) What do you think would happen to the graph if the function were f ( x)   x2  1 ?
2

x 9

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MCR3U – Algebraic Expressions Date:

PART B: Use the function g ( x)  x  2 x  3 to complete the next steps/questions below.


2

x 1
1. Simplify the rational function.
State the restriction on the variable.

2. Use DESMOS to graph the function.


Draw the graph on the grid to the right.
a) Does the graph have a vertical asymptote at the restriction,
or any place else?

b) On the DESMOS graph, drag the cursor along the graph so that you can see the coordinate points.
What is the value of the 𝑦-coordinate when the 𝑥-coordinate is equal to the restriction?

c) The coordinate you found in b) above is called a hole. It always exists at (restriction on x, undefined).
Looking at the original equation, knowing what the restriction is, can you think of how you might be
able to determine the exact coordinate of where the hole exists?

Vertical Asymptotes
Vertical asymptotes occur at restricted values that are the _____________________ of the denominator

Holes
Holes occur at restricted values when a factor in the numerator __________________________ a factor
in the denominator (removing the vertical asymptote and creating the hole)

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