9.

2 – Analysing and Graphing Rational Functions

Rational Function
p(x)
f(x) = , where p(x) and q(x) are polynomials and q(x) ≠ 0
q(x)

If q(x) = 0, one of two things can happen:

0 0
1. If f(a) = , there will be a discontinuity (hole) in the graph at x = a, because is
0 0
indeterminate.
x2−x−2
E.g. Determine f(2) for f(x) = x−2

c c
2. If f(a) = 0, there will be a vertical asymptote at x = a, because 0 is undefined.
x2+x−2
E.g. Determine f(2) for f(x) = x−2
 x2−x−2
E.g. Graph f(x) = x−2 . Analyse its behavior near its non-permissible value.
 4x−5
E.g. Graph y = x−2 .
a
Is this in the form y = + k?
x−h

Because transformations are a bit more difficult, we will examine another method of graphing
rational functions.
This method is a key skill for Calculus.

Graphing Rational Functions

1. Determine the vertical asymptotes and holes (if any).

2. Determine the horizontal asymptotes (if any).

3. Find the x-intercepts. (let y=0)

4. Find the y-intercept. (let x=0)

5. Factor the function and perform a sign analysis.

6. Sketch the graph.

Vertical Asymptotes
c
- Any x value that results in 0
Discontinuities (Holes)
0
- Any x value that results in 0
Horizontal Asymptotes
1. If the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator, the equation of
the horizontal asymptote is y = 0.
1
E.g. y = x+3

2. If the degree of the numerator and denominator are equal, the equation of the horizontal
asymptote is y = c, where c is the ratio of the leading coefficients.
2x2
E.g. y = x2+x−12
 4x−5
E.g. Sketch a graph of y = x−2 .

1. Vertical Asymptotes/Holes 3. x-Intercepts 5. Sign Analysis

2. Horizontal Asymptotes 4. y-Intercept 6. Sketch

 2x
E.g. Sketch a graph of y = x2−4.

1. Vertical Asymptotes/Holes 3. x-Intercepts 5. Sign Analysis

2. Horizontal Asymptotes 4. y-Intercept 6. Sketch

 x2+2x
E.g. Sketch a graph of y = x2−4 .

1. Vertical Asymptotes/Holes 3. x-Intercepts 5. Sign Analysis

2. Horizontal Asymptotes 4. y-Intercept 6. Sketch

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