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Chapter 4: Rational Functions

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    149159
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    • 4.1: Introduction to Rational Functions
      This section introduces rational functions, which are the ratio of two polynomials. It explains how to identify the domain, vertical and horizontal asymptotes, and behavior at intercepts. The section also discusses how to simplify and analyze the graph of rational functions, focusing on understanding the critical features that define their behavior. Various examples are provided to help illustrate these concepts.
    • 4.2: Graphs of Rational Functions
      This section covers the graphing of rational functions, focusing on identifying key features such as vertical and horizontal asymptotes, intercepts, and end behavior. It explains how to analyze the function's numerator and denominator to determine these characteristics. The section also provides guidelines for sketching the graph by considering the behavior near asymptotes and intercepts, supported by examples.
    • 4.3: Rational Inequalities and Applications
      This section covers solving rational inequalities and applying them to real-world problems. It explains how to solve inequalities involving rational functions by finding critical values and determining the sign of each interval. The section also explores how to express solutions in interval notation and provides examples of practical applications, such as modeling and optimization.


    This page titled Chapter 4: Rational Functions is shared under a CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Carl Stitz & Jeff Zeager via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.