Section 4.

Rational Functions

Graphing Rational Functions

Step 1

Step 2

Find the DOMAIN.

Find the INTERCEPTS.
- x-int:
-

Step 3

y-int:

Find any HOLES.

- Factor numerator and denominator.
- Divide out common factors.

Find any ASYMPTOTES.

- Vertical Asymptotes:
Step 4

Horizontal Asymptotes:

Slant Asymptotes:

Step 5

Find ADDITIONAL POINTS.

Step 6

SKETCH the graph.

- Draw asymptotes, label intercept(s), label additional points, and complete the
graph with a smooth curve between and beyond the vertical asymptotes

Graph the rational functions:

x
1. f ( x) 2
x 4

Section 4.6

Rational Functions

Graph the rational functions:

2.

f ( x)

x 2 3x 4
x2

Graph the rational functions:

3.

f ( x)

x2 x 6
x2 x 2

Homework: p. 404: #27-32, 33, 36, 38, 39, 42, 47, 53, 56, 61