Question

Select all the asymptotes of
f(x)=((x-7)/(x^2-2x-8))

Answer 1

asymptotes possibly occur when the denominator equals 0. Try setting the denominator equal to 0 and solving for x to find where the asymptotes are.

Answer 2

solve that separately from the original question. :)

Answer 3

set the denominator to equal 0. Factor the polynomial and that way you'll get the values that will make the denominator 0. Since no denominator can be 0 (because it'll be an error), the values you get will be the asymptote of your function. Here's a hint your factors would be:
(x+2)(x-4)=0

Answer 4

ok so then are my asymptote just x=2 and x=-4

Answer 5

oh no they are x=-2 and x=4 right the signs switch

Answer 6

yep!

Answer 7

so then those are my asymptote

Answer 8

yup! another way of making sure you have them right is to use a graphing calculator...

Answer 9

Oh ok do I have to do anything with the x-7 on top or that doesn't have anything to do with the asymptote?

Answer 10

nope, it does not have to do anything with the vertical asymptotes ;)

Answer 11

ok thanks

Answer 12

no problem!