Advanced Functions (MHF4U) · Polynomial and Rational Functions

Vertical and horizontal asymptotes of rational functions

Find the vertical and horizontal asymptotes of a rational function from its equation. Unlimited questions, five difficulty levels, and a full worked solution every time, included free with weekly lessons.

Practice this skill Curriculum: MHF4U-PR2.1

Try one

State the equation of the horizontal asymptote of the rational function.

f(x) = (−3x + 5)/(3x - 12)

Answer: y = -1

See one solved, step by step

State the equation of the horizontal asymptote of the rational function.

f(x) = (−3x + 3)/(x - 2)
📘 Worked solution
1Leading coefficient of the numerator: −3. Leading coefficient of the denominator: 1.Both the numerator and denominator are degree 1, so compare their leading coefficients.
2y = −31 = −3For equal-degree numerator and denominator, the horizontal asymptote is the ratio of the leading coefficients.

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