Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Rational Functions
A rational function is a function that can be expressed as the ratio of two polynomials. In the case of ƒ(x) = 4/(x-1), the numerator is a constant polynomial (4) and the denominator is a linear polynomial (x-1). Understanding the structure of rational functions is essential for analyzing their behavior, including asymptotes and intercepts.
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Asymptotes
Asymptotes are lines that a graph approaches but never touches. For the function ƒ(x) = 4/(x-1), there is a vertical asymptote at x = 1, where the function is undefined. Additionally, horizontal asymptotes can be determined by analyzing the degrees of the polynomials in the numerator and denominator, which helps in understanding the end behavior of the function.
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Graphing Techniques
Graphing rational functions involves identifying key features such as intercepts, asymptotes, and the overall shape of the graph. For ƒ(x) = 4/(x-1), one would find the y-intercept by evaluating the function at x = 0, and then sketch the graph considering the asymptote and the behavior as x approaches the asymptote. This process is crucial for accurately representing the function visually.
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