Module 4.4 Proper and Improper Rational Functions
Proper vs. Improper Rational Functions Proper Rational Functions: When the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator. Improper Rational Functions: When the degree of the numerator is greater than or equal to the degree of the denominator. Division is possible
Simplifying Improper Rational Functions with Long Division Point to remember, always have to keep place values with variable. If any exponents are missing, add them back in with a 0 coefficient Multiply everything in the divisor by a value so that the first term is equal to the first term in the dividend. Subtract the multiplied value from the dividend Repeat until there are no more terms left. Write the answer as a polynomial ± the remainder over the divisor
Slant Asymptotes A rational function has a slant asymptote, if the degree of the numerator is exactly one more than the degree of the denominator. Use division (long or synthetic) to divide the function. Set the non-remainder portion (should be liner) of the answer equal to y, and that is the equation of the slant asymptote.