Rational functions are a cornerstone in the study of maths, especially in the analysis of functions. They are defined as the quotient of two polynomials. This means a rational function can be expressed as R(z) = P(z)/Q(z), where both P(z) and Q(z) are polynomials. The behaviour of a rational function, especially near points where it's undefined, is crucial for understanding its overall characteristics. This behaviour is often determined by its vertical and horizontal asymptotes, as well as any holes in the function. To fully grasp these concepts, an understanding of polynomial theorems can be incredibly helpful.

Introduction to Rational Functions

• Definition: A rational function is a function that can be represented as the quotient of two polynomials. It's of the form R(z) = P(z)/Q(z), where P(z) and Q(z) are polynomials.
• Characteristics: Rational functions can exhibit a wide range of behaviours, including:
  • Having domains that exclude certain x-values.
  • Approaching infinity at certain points, leading to vertical asymptotes.
  • Levelling off to a certain y-value as x approaches infinity, resulting in horizontal asymptotes.
  • Having points where the function is undefined, known as holes.

A strong foundation in inverse functions enhances the understanding of these characteristics.

Vertical Asymptotes

• Definition: A vertical asymptote of a rational function is a vertical line x = a where the function approaches positive or negative infinity as x nears a.
• Finding Vertical Asymptotes:
  • 1. Set the denominator of the rational function to zero and solve for x. The solutions are potential vertical asymptotes.
  • 2. For each potential asymptote, analyse the behaviour of the function as x approaches the asymptote from both sides. If the function approaches infinity (or negative infinity) from both sides, then x = a is a vertical asymptote.
• Example: Consider the function f(x) = x/(x² - 4). The denominator is x² - 4. Setting this to zero, we get x² - 4 = 0 which gives x = 2 and x = -2 as potential vertical asymptotes. Analysing the behaviour of f(x) near these points confirms they are vertical asymptotes.

Horizontal Asymptotes

• Definition: A horizontal asymptote of a rational function is a horizontal line y = b that the graph of the function approaches as x goes to positive or negative infinity.
• Finding Horizontal Asymptotes:
  • 1. Compare the degrees of the numerator and denominator.
    • If the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator, the x-axis (y = 0) is the horizontal asymptote.
    • If the degrees are equal, divide the leading coefficients. The line y = a/b is the horizontal asymptote, where a and b are the leading coefficients of the numerator and denominator, respectively.
    • If the degree of the numerator is greater than the degree of the denominator, there is no horizontal asymptote.
• Example: For the function g(x) = (3x² + 5)/(x² + 4), both the numerator and denominator have the same degree (2). The leading coefficients are 3 and 1, respectively. Thus, the horizontal asymptote is y = 3. Understanding the basics of differentiation can also aid in analysing the behaviour of functions as they relate to asymptotes.

Holes in Rational Functions

• Definition: A hole in a rational function is a point where the function is undefined due to a factor that is common in both the numerator and denominator. This factor cancels out, leaving the function defined everywhere else.
• Finding Holes:
  • 1. Factorise both the numerator and denominator.
  • 2. Identify common factors.
  • 3. The x-values of these common factors are where the holes are located.
• Example: For the function h(x) = x(x - 3)/(x - 3), the factor x - 3 is common in both the numerator and denominator. This factor cancels out, leaving h(x) = x defined everywhere except at x = 3. Thus, there is a hole at x = 3. For students delving deeper into complex numbers, exploring the introduction to complex numbers can provide further insights into undefined points.

Behaviour Near Asymptotes

• As x approaches a vertical asymptote from the left or right, the function will approach positive or negative infinity.
• As x approaches positive or negative infinity, the function will approach its horizontal asymptote.
• Holes are points where the function is undefined. However, since the common factor causing the hole cancels out, the function behaves normally near the hole, except at the exact point of the hole. Graphing techniques are crucial for visualising these behaviours effectively.

Practical Applications

Rational functions are not just theoretical constructs; they have practical applications in various fields. For instance, they can model scenarios where one quantity depends on another in a ratio-like manner, such as rates, concentrations, and more. Understanding the properties and behaviours of rational functions can provide insights into these real-world scenarios, making them invaluable tools in both academic and professional settings.