Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Vertical Asymptotes
Vertical asymptotes occur in a function when the function approaches infinity or negative infinity as the input approaches a certain value. This typically happens at points where the denominator of a rational function equals zero, provided the numerator does not also equal zero at those points. Identifying these points is crucial for understanding the behavior of the function near those values.
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Limits
Limits are fundamental in calculus, representing the value that a function approaches as the input approaches a certain point. In the context of vertical asymptotes, evaluating the left-hand limit (lim x→a<sup>-</sup> f(x)) and the right-hand limit (lim x→a<sup>+</sup> f(x)) helps determine the behavior of the function as it nears the asymptote. This analysis reveals whether the function tends toward positive or negative infinity.
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Rational Functions
A rational function is a ratio of two polynomials, expressed as f(x) = P(x)/Q(x), where P and Q are polynomials. The behavior of rational functions, particularly their asymptotic behavior, is influenced by the degrees and leading coefficients of the polynomials in the numerator and denominator. Understanding the structure of rational functions is essential for analyzing their limits and identifying vertical asymptotes.
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