Finding the Range of Rational Functions
In this document, we will explore how to find the range of rational functions (i.e., functions
that are ratios of polynomials). A general approach is provided followed by three examples
demonstrating the method.
Steps to Find the Range of Rational Functions:
1. Identify the domain: Determine values of x that make the denominator zero, as the
function will be undefined at these points.
2. Find horizontal or oblique asymptotes: The degrees of the polynomials in the numerator
and denominator will help determine the end behavior and the horizontal asymptote.
3. Solve for y: Set the function equal to y and solve for x in terms of y. This method helps to
directly find which y-values the function can or cannot take.
4. Check for restrictions: Consider any restrictions in the range due to vertical asymptotes,
holes, or other specific behaviors of the function.
Example 1: f(x) = (x + 2)/(x - 1)
1. Domain: The function is undefined at x = 1 since it makes the denominator zero. So, x = 1
is excluded from the domain.
2. Horizontal Asymptote: The degrees of both the numerator and denominator are the same
(degree 1), so the horizontal asymptote is y = 1.
3. Solving for y:
- Set y = (x+2)/(x-1) and solve for x:
y(x - 1) = x + 2
Simplifying gives x = (y + 2)/(y - 1), so the range excludes y = 1.
4. Range: All real numbers except y = 1, so the range is y in (-∞, 1) ∪ (1, ∞).
Example 2: f(x) = (x^2 - 4)/(x + 3)
1. Domain: The function is undefined at x = -3.
2. Horizontal Asymptote: The degree of the numerator is 2, which is higher than the degree
of the denominator (degree 1), so there is no horizontal asymptote (but an oblique/slant
asymptote exists).
3. Solving for y:
- Set y = (x^2 - 4)/(x + 3).
Simplifying the quadratic equation leads to real solutions for all values of y, so there are no
restrictions.
4. Range: The range is all real numbers, y in (-∞, ∞).
Example 3: f(x) = 2x/(x^2 + 1)
1. Domain: The denominator x^2 + 1 never equals zero, so the domain is all real numbers.
2. Horizontal Asymptote: The degree of the numerator is less than the denominator, so the
horizontal asymptote is y = 0.
3. Solving for y:
- Set y = 2x/(x^2 + 1).
Solving the quadratic leads to the range y in [-1, 1].
4. Range: The range is y in [-1, 1].
