Asymptote Math Example 1
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 1
easyFind the vertical and horizontal asymptotes of .
Solution
- 1 Vertical asymptote: set the denominator equal to zero. . Since the numerator , there is a vertical asymptote at .
- 2 Horizontal asymptote: compare degrees. Both numerator and denominator have degree . Divide leading coefficients: . Thus the horizontal asymptote is .
- 3 Verify by taking the limit: .
Answer
Vertical asymptote: ; Horizontal asymptote:
Vertical asymptotes arise where the denominator is zero (and numerator is not). Horizontal asymptotes describe end behavior; when degrees are equal, the asymptote equals the ratio of leading coefficients.
About Asymptote
An asymptote is a line that a curve approaches arbitrarily closely as the input (or output) grows without bound, but typically never reaches.
Learn more about Asymptote โ