Quarter 1 RATIONAL FUNCTIONS

LESSON 2

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS: Read the specific directions carefully before answering the exercises
and activities. Accomplish this module on or before SEPTEMBER 16, 2022. For online
consultations, please refer to the given schedule.

ESSENTIAL LEARNING PURPOSES: At the end of these lessons, I am expected to:

A. Distinguishes rational function, rational equation, and rational

inequality.
What do I T. Solves problems involving rational functions, equations and
need to
know? inequalities.
M. Represents a rational function through its: (a)table of values (b) graph,
and (c) equation
A. Determines the: (a)intercepts; (b)zeroes; (c) asymptotes of rational
functions.

A. Finds the domain and range of a rational function.

REVIEW |Before getting deeper with the concept of rational functions, let us
define first some important terms and review some concepts that can help us
understand rational functions, rational equations and rational inequalities. Are
you ready?
Review
WHAT I TRY THIS! Answer the following problem by using Synthetic Division and Long
KNOW? Division.

1. , solve using synthetic division

2. , Solve using long division

3. , solve using long division

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 LET’S GET IT ON! |Read and understand the information below and
complete the required activities.

Rational number is a number that can be written as fraction and whose

numerators and denominators are integers provided that the denominator is
not equal to 0. We can extend this idea to algebraic expressions. An Algebraic
Expressions is a polynomial divided by another polynomial. On the other hand,
given two polynomials functions 𝑃(𝑥) and 𝑄(𝑥), the function is defined by 𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑃(𝑥)
is called rational function. The domain of 𝑓(𝑥) is the set of real numbers x
𝑄(𝑥)
except those for which 𝑄(𝑥) = 0. In other words, since division by zero is
impossible, a rational function has a discontinuity whenever its denominator is
zero.
Some examples of rational functions are:
3𝑥+2 4𝑥 2 +𝑥+1 2 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−2
,𝑥 ≠2 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥−2
,𝑥 ≠3 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥+3 , 𝑥 ≠ −3

Note: The denominator of a rational function cannot be zero. Any value of the
variable that would make the denominator zero is not permissible.

2𝑥−7
Example 1: ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 7 is a rational function since ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥 − 7 = . The
1
domain of ℎ(𝑥) = {𝑥ǀ𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟}. In fact, every polynomial function is a
rational function.

3𝑥 2 −5𝑥
Example 2: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥+2
is a rational function since the numerator and
denominator are polynomial functions. Note that 𝑓 is not defined when x= -2.
So the domain of 𝑓(𝑥) = {𝑥ǀ𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑒𝑥𝑐𝑒𝑝𝑡 𝑥 ≠ −2}

𝑥3
Example 3: 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 +𝑥+1 is a rational function whose domain is the set of real
numbers since its denominator 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 1 has no real zeros as shown below.

Recall that the zeros of 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 can be obtained using the quadratic

formula,
−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
𝑥=
2𝑎
Since 𝑥 + 𝑥 + 1 is not factorable, we use the quadratic formula. In this case, 𝑎 =
2

1 , 𝑏 = 1, 𝑐 = 1, so
−1±√12 −4(1)(1) −1±√−3 −1±𝑖√3
𝑥= = =
2(1) 2 2

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 Try this:
Determine the domain of the following rational functions:

1. 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟐𝒙𝟐 − 𝟑𝒙 + 𝟓

𝟗𝒙
2. 𝒉(𝒙) =
𝒙(𝒙−𝟓)

𝟓(𝒙−𝟑)
3. 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟑𝒙𝟐+𝟏𝟒𝒙−𝟓

In graphing, it is important to determine the x and y intercepts of the rational

function. The method on how to obtain the x and y intercepts (if there are any)
of a rational function is similar to the method we used in the evaluation of a
function.

𝑥−3
Example 1: Consider the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 +1 and its domain, dom 𝑓 =
{𝑥ǀ𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟}.
The x-intercept may be obtained by substituting y=f(x) by 0 in the given
expression for 𝑓 and solve for x.
𝑥−3
0= → Apply cross multiplication
𝑥 2 +1
𝑥−3
(𝑥 2 + 1) • 0 = 2 • (𝑥 2 + 1) → Simplify by using substitution
𝑥 +1
0=𝑥−3
3=𝑥
𝒙=𝟑
The x-intercept (also known as the zero of 𝑓 ) is 𝑥 = 3.

The y-intercept may be obtained by substituting x by 0 in the given expression

for 𝑓 and solve for y.
0−3 −3
𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 = = −𝟑
0 +1 1
The y-intercept is 𝑦 = −3.
𝑥 2 −3𝑥−4
Example 2: Consider the function ℎ(𝑥) = and its domain, dom ℎ =
𝑥2
{𝑥ǀ𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟, 𝑥 ≠ 0}.
Solving for the x-intercept, we have:
𝑥 2 −3𝑥−4
0= 𝑥2
→ Apply cross multiplication
𝑥 2 −3𝑥−4
𝑥2 • 0 = 𝑥2
• 𝑥2 → simplify

0 = 𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 4 → Factor out
0 = (𝑥 − 4)(𝑥 + 1) → Solve for the value of 𝒙.
𝒙 = 𝟒, −𝟏

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 Since 𝑥 = 0 is not part of the domain of h, we cannot substitute x by 0 (to
solve for the y-intercept because this will lead to
02 −3(0)−4 −4
𝑦 = ℎ(0) = = =undefined
(0)2 0
Therefore, there is no y=intercept.

𝒙−𝟑
Example 3: Find the domain and range of the rational function 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟐𝒙+𝟏.

1
Note that 𝑓 is undefined at 𝑥 = − 2 so, dom 𝑓 = {𝑥ǀ𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟, 𝑥 ≠
1
− 2}. Since 𝑓(𝑥) is one-to-one, 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) exists so range of 𝑓 = 𝑑𝑜𝑚 𝑓 −1
𝒙−𝟑
Let 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥): 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝟐𝒙+𝟏
𝒙−𝟑
Interchange the x and y variables: 𝑥 = 𝟐𝒙+𝟏
Solve for y: 𝑥(2𝑦 + 1) = 𝑦 − 3
2𝑥𝑦 + 𝑥 = 𝑦 − 3
2𝑥𝑦 − 𝑦 = −𝑥 − 3
𝑦(2𝑥 − 1) = −𝑥 − 3
−𝑥−3
𝑦= 2𝑥−1
−𝑥−3
Let 𝑦 = 𝑓 −1 (𝑥): 𝑓 −1 (𝑥) =
2𝑥−1
1
The domain of 𝑓 −1 = {𝑥ǀ𝑥 ≠ 2 , 𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟} = range of 𝑓.

ACTIVITY 1 | Solve the following rational functions.

1. Find the x and y intercepts of the following:

𝑥 2 −9 𝑥 2 −7𝑥+12
a. 𝑓(𝑥) = 1−5𝑥2 b. 𝑔(𝑥) = 7𝑥

𝑥
2. Find the domain and range of the rational function 𝑓(𝑥) = .
𝑥−4

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 ASYMPTOTES OF RATIONAL FUNCTONS

An asymptote is a straight line associated with a curve such that as a

point moves along an infinite branch of the curve the distance from the point
to the line approaches zero and the slope of the curve at the point approaches
the slope of the line.

The graph of the rational function can have no asymptotes or more

asymptotes, which may be vertical or horizontal. Some of the cases are
presented in the succeeding examples.

A. Vertical Asymptotes
𝑃(𝑥)
Given a rational function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑄(𝑥), 𝑄(𝑥) ≠ 0. If 𝑓(𝑥) approaches
infinity (or negative infinity) as x approaches a real number 𝑎 from the
right or left, then the line 𝑥 = 𝑎 is a vertical asymptote of the graph 𝑓.

In symbol, if 𝑓(𝑥) → ∞ or 𝑓(𝑥) → −∞ as 𝑥 = 𝑎− or 𝑥 = 𝑎+ , then 𝑥 = 𝑎

is a vertical asymptote.

Theorem 2.1. (Vertical Asymptote)

If 𝑎 is a real number such that 𝑄(𝑎) = 0 and 𝑃(𝑎) ≠ 0, then the line 𝑥 = 𝑎
is a vertical asymptote of the graph 𝑓.

B. Horizontal Asymptotes
𝑃(𝑥)
Given a rational function 𝑓(𝑥) = , 𝑄(𝑥) ≠ 0. If 𝑓(𝑥) approaches
𝑄(𝑥)
infinity (or negative infinity) as 𝑓(𝑥) approaches a real number 𝑏, then
the line 𝑦 = 𝑏 is a horizontal asymptote of the graph 𝑓.

In symbol, if 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑏 as 𝑥 → ∞ or 𝑥 → −∞, then 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑏 is a

horizontal asymptote.

Theorem 2.2 (horizontal Asymptote):

The horizontal asymptote of the graph 𝑓 may be found by the following
rules
1. If 𝑛 < 𝑚, then y=0 is a horizontal asymptote
𝑎
2. If 𝑛 = 𝑚, then 𝑦 = 𝑏 𝑛 is a horizontal asymptote
𝑚
3. If 𝑛 > 𝑚, then there are no horizontal asymptote.

Theorem 2.3 (limit theorem). Let x be any real number, c any constant, and n a
natural number. Then as |𝒙| → ∞.
1 1 𝑐
𝑥
→0 𝑥𝑛
→0 𝑥𝑛
→0

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 𝟏
Example 1:Find the vertical and horizontal asymptote for 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙−𝟒

Solution:

a. To determine the vertical asymptote, we set the denominator equal

to zero and solve for x.
𝑥−4
𝑥=4
The equation has a real solution of x=4. Since 𝑃(𝑥) ≠ 0 at x=4, then the
vertical asymptote of the rational function is x=4.

b. Observe that the degree 𝑃(𝑥) is less than the degree of 𝑄(𝑥), then the
graph of 𝑓 has the line 𝑦 = 0 (the x-axis) as its horizontal asymptote as
noted in Theorem 2.2.

We can also verify the solution of the vertical asymptote using

Theorem 2.3 (Limit Theorem)

1
𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥−4
𝟏
𝟏
𝑓(𝑥) = •𝒙
𝒙−𝟒 𝟏
𝒙
1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥
𝑥 4
𝑥−𝑥
1
0
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑥 = =0
|𝒙|→∞ 𝑥 4 1−0
−
𝑥 𝑥
The limit is 0 and the horizontal asymptote is y=0

𝒙𝟐 −𝒙−𝟔
Example 2: Find the vertical and horizontal asymptotes for 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙𝟐 −𝟗
.

Solution:

a. Solving for the vertical asymptotes, we set the 𝑥 2 − 9 = 0 and solve for x.
𝑥2 − 9 = 0
(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3) = 0
𝑥−3=0 𝑥+3=0
𝑥=3 𝑥 = −3

The equation has one real solution of x=3. Since P(x)= 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 6 = (𝑥 + 2)(𝑥 −
3) ≠ 0 at 𝑥 = −3, then the vertical asymptote of the function 𝑓 is 𝑥 = −3

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 b. Since the degree of P(x) is equal to the degree of Q(x), then the graph
𝑎𝑛 1
of 𝑓 has the line 𝑦 = = = 1 as its horizontal asymptotes as noted in
𝑏𝑚 1
Theorem 2.2.

Solving for the solutions of the horizontal asymptotes using theorem 2.2.,
we get

𝒙𝟐 − 𝒙 − 𝟔
𝒇(𝒙) =
𝒙𝟐 − 𝟗
1
𝒙𝟐 − 𝒙 − 𝟔 𝑥 2
𝒇(𝒙) = •
𝒙𝟐 − 𝟗 1
𝑥2
𝒙𝟐 𝒙 𝟔
𝟐 − 𝟐− 𝟐
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝒙 𝟐 𝒙 𝒙
𝒙 𝟗
−
𝒙𝟐 𝒙𝟐
1 6
1−𝑥− 𝟐
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝒙
9
1− 𝟐
𝒙
1 6
1−𝑥− 𝟐 1−0−0 1
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙 = = =1
|𝒙|→∞ 9 1−0 1
1− 𝟐
𝒙
The limit is 1, thus the horizontal asymptote is 𝒚 = 𝟏

4𝑥 3 +2𝑥 2 −7
Example 3: Determine all the asymptotes of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 +2𝑥−3
Solution:
a. Based from theorem 2.1, we let 𝑄(𝑥) = 0 and solve for its real
solutions, we get
𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3
(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 3) = 0
𝑥−1=0 𝑥+3 = 0
𝑥=1 𝑥 = −3
Since 𝑃(𝑥) = 4𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 7 ≠ 0 at x = 1 and x = -3, the vertical
3 2

asymptotes are x = 1 and x = -3.

b. Since the degree of 𝑃(𝑥) is greater than the degree of 𝑄(𝑥), then
the graph of 𝑓 has no horizontal asymptote.

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 ACTIVITY 2 |Identify the asymptotes and graph the rational functions in the
previous activity. Use the x & y intercepts that you already solved.

𝑥−2 𝑥−4
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥+2 4. 𝑔(𝑥) = 6𝑥

2𝑥 𝑥−6
2. 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−2 5. 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥2

2𝑥−6
3. 𝑔(𝑥) =
𝑥

GRAPHING RATIONAL FUNCTIONS

This unit focuses on the graphical solution of a rational function. It is

necessary to determine the asymptotes which were already been discussed in
the previous section. The additional important parts in setting the graph of a
rational function are the intercepts, coordinates, domain, and range. The steps
below will guide us in establishing the graph of a rational function.

Steps in Graphing Rational Functions

1. Determine the asymptotes of the graph.

2. Determine the x-intercepts and y-intercepts, if there are any.
3. Consider the sign of f(x) in the intervals determined by zeros of P(x) and Q(x).
4. Identify the symmetry detected by the test.
5. Plot some points on either side of each vertical asymptote and check whether
the graph crosses a horizontal asymptote.
6. Sketch the graph using the points plotted and using the asymptotes as a guide.
The graph is a smooth curve, except for breaks at the asymptotes.

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 Example 1: Determine the domain, range, intercepts, and zeros of the rational
𝟏
function 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙−𝟒 and sketch the graph.

Solution:

Recall that the vertical and horizontal asymptotes were already established in
previous section.

Vertical Asymptotes: x=4 Horizontal Asymptotes: y=0

Then we draw the asymptotes as dashed lines and construct a table of values
to help us sketch the graph.

X 0 1 2 3 5 6 7 8

𝑓(𝑥) -0.25 -0.33 -0.5 -1 1 0.5 0.33 0.25

The graph is displayed below.

The domain is the set of real numbers except when the denominator Q(X) = 0.
This is x – 4 = 0 or x = 4, the value of x will make the function undefined. Thus, the
domain of the function is {𝑥ǀ 𝑥 ≠ 4}. The range of the function is {𝑦ǀ 𝑦 ≠ 0} which
can be seen in figure above.

The x-intercept and y-intercept of the graph of f(x) is

1
𝑦=
𝑥−4

Let y = 0 Let x = 0
∴ There is no real solution; hence, there
1
y=0−4
1 is no x-intercept. Conversely, the y-
0=𝑥−4 1
intercept is at (0, − 4).
1
0≠ 1 0= −
4

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 ACTIVITY 3| Fill in the blanks.

I. For numbers 1 to 5:
6𝑥−1
Given: 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥−3

1-2. The vertical and horizontal asymptote of 𝑓(𝑥) are ____________ and
_______________, respectively.

3-4. The x and y intercepts are ___________ and ____________, respectively.

5.The domain of 𝑓(𝑥) is _________________________.

𝑥 2 −1
6. The critical points of 𝑥 2 +𝑥+1 < 0 are 𝑥 =___________.

𝑥+1
II. Given that ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑥−4. Find the following:
1. Domain and Range of ℎ.

2. Intercepts of the function ℎ(𝑥).

III. Make at least two rational functions. Define its domain and range,
solve for its x and y intercept, identify its asymptotes and graph. Show
all your solutions on the space provided.

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 SOLVING RATIONAL EQUATIONS AND INEQUALITIES

A. Solving rational equations

To solve a rational equation, we multiply each term of the equation by

the least common denominator (LCD) of any functions. The resulting
equation should be equivalent to the original equation and be cleared of
all fractions as long as we do not multiply by zero. Multiplying by an
expression that is equal to zero can produce an equation that is not
equivalent to the original equation and thus can produce an extraneous
value. An extraneous value is not a solution of the original equation. The
steps will guide us in solving equations involving rational expressions.

Some examples of rational equations

4 5𝑥−3 2𝑥−11 4
3𝑥 + 1 = 𝑥 , 2𝑥+1
=4, 3𝑥+7
=7

Some examples of rational inequalities

4𝑥+1 1 1−𝑥 5
𝑥
<5, 2𝑥 − 1 ≥ 𝑥+3 , 𝑥−1
≤8

Steps in solving an Equation Containing Rational Expressions

1. Determine the LCD of all the denominators.

2. Multiply each term of the equation by the LCD.
3. Solve the resulting equation.
4. Check your answer by substituting it into the original equation. Exclude from the
solution of any value that would make the LCD equal to zero. Such value is
called extraneous solution.
Example: Solve each of the following equations for x.
3 1 5 1 3𝑥−7 1
a. 𝑥
+2 = 𝑥 c. 𝑥+5 − 3𝑥2 +19𝑥+20 = 3𝑥+4

3 2 1 2 𝑥
b. 𝑥−2
+ 𝑥 = 𝑥−2 d. 𝑥−2 = 𝑥−2 − 4

Solution:
3 1 5
a. 𝑥
+2 = 𝑥
3 1 5
[𝑥 + 2 = 𝑥]2x → multiply each term by 2x
3(2) + 1(𝑥) = 5(2) → simplify
6 + 𝑥 = 10 → remove parenthesis
𝑥 = 10 − 6 → combine all like terms
𝒙=𝟒 → 4 is only the apparent solution.

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 3 2 1
b. 𝑥−2
+ 𝑥 = 𝑥−2

3 2 1
[𝑥−2 + 𝑥 = 𝑥−2] 𝑥(𝑥 − 2) → multiply each term by 𝑥(𝑥 − 2)

3𝑥 + 2(𝑥 − 2) = 1(𝑥) → simplify

3𝑥 + 2𝑥 − 4 + 𝑥 → use distributive property

5𝑥 − 4 = 𝑥 → combine all like terms

5𝑥 − 𝑥 = 4 → collect like terms

4𝑥 = 4 → combine all like terms

𝒙=𝟏 → 1 is only the apparent solution

1 3𝑥−7 1
c. − 3𝑥 2 +19𝑥+20 = 3𝑥+4
𝑥+5
1 3𝑥−7 1
− (𝑥+5)(3𝑥+4) = 3𝑥+4 → factor the denominator of the
𝑥+5
second fraction
1 3𝑥−7 1
[𝑥+5 − (𝑥+5)(3𝑥+4) = 3𝑥+4](x+5)(3x+4) → multiply by (x+5)(3x+4)

(3𝑥 + 4) − (3𝑥 − 7) = 𝑥 + 5 → simplify

3𝑥 + 4 − 3𝑥 + 7 = 𝑥 + 5 → use distributive property

11 = 𝑥 + 5 → combine all like terms
𝑥 = 11 − 5 → collect like terms
𝒙=𝟔 → 6 is only the apparent solution.
2 𝑥
d. 𝑥−2
= 𝑥−2 − 4

2 𝑥
[𝑥−2 = 𝑥−2 − 4](x-2) → multiply each term by (x-2)

2 = 𝑥 − 4(𝑥 − 2) → simplify

2 = 𝑥 − 4𝑥 + 8 → use distributive property

2 = −3𝑥 + 8 → combine all like terms

−3𝑥 = 2 − 8 → collect like terms

−3𝑥 = −6 → combine all like terms

𝒙=𝟐 → 2 is only the apparent solution.

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 12
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 Since 2 is a restriction value of an original equations. Thus, it is an
extraneous value.

B. Solving Rational Inequalities

2 1
Example 1: Given 𝑥−1 ≥ 𝑥+4
, find the solution for x.

Solution:
Represent the inequality in standard form.
2 1
≥
𝑥−1 𝑥+4

2 1
𝑥−1
− 𝑥+4
≥0

2(𝑥+4) 1(𝑥−1)
(𝑥−1)(𝑥+4)
− (𝑥+4)(𝑥−1) ≥ 0

2(𝑥+4)−1(𝑥−1)
(𝑥−1)(𝑥+4)
≥0

2𝑥+8−𝑥+1
≥0
(𝑥+1)(𝑥+4)

𝑥+9 𝑥+9
≥ 0 with 𝑓(𝑥) =
(𝑥−1)(𝑥+4) (𝑥−1)(𝑥+4)

Determine the critical numbers for f(x) by establishing the zeros of 𝑓(𝑥) and
excluded values for 𝑓(𝑥). We can solve for the zeros of 𝑓(𝑥) using the numerator
of the rational function.

𝑃(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 9

𝑥+9=0

𝒙 = −𝟗

The excluded values of 𝑓(𝑥) will be computed using the denominator of the
rational function.

𝑄(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 4)

(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 4) = 0

𝑥−1=0 ; 𝑥+4=0

𝒙=𝟏 𝒙 = −𝟒

The critical numbers are 1, -4, and -9. Plotting the critical numbers in the number
line into four intervals as reflected in the figure below.

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 13
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 𝑥+9
Solving for the test values of x in 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥−1)(𝑥+4), we get

if 𝑥 = −10 if 𝑥 = 0
−10+9 −1 𝟏 0+9 −1 𝟗
𝑓(𝑥) = (−10−1)(−10+4) = (−11)(−1) = − 𝟔𝟔 𝑓(𝑥) = (0−1)(0+4) = (−1)(4) = − 𝟒

if 𝑥 = −5 if 𝑥 = 2
−5+9 4 𝟐 2+9 11 𝟏𝟏
𝑓(𝑥) = (−5−1)(−5+4) = (−6)(−1) = 𝟑 𝑓(𝑥) = (2−1)(2+4) = (1)(6) = 𝟔

𝑥 < −9 −9 < 𝑥 < −4 −4 < 𝑥 < 1 𝑥>1

Test value x −10 −5 0 2

𝑓(𝑥) 1 2 9 11
− −
66 3 4 6

Sign of 𝑓(𝑥) - + - +

Since the rational inequality is of the form 𝑓(𝑥) ≥ 0, 𝑥 = −9, 𝑥 = −4, and 𝑥 = 1 are
part of the solution. The interval notation is {𝑥 − 9 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ −4 𝑜𝑟 𝑥 ≥ 1}. The
solution can be graph as shown in figure below.

Note: if the rational inequality is of the form (𝑓(𝑥) > 0 or 𝑓(𝑥) ≥ 0, then all of
the intervals with the positive sign are solutions. Also, the zeros of 𝑓(𝑥) are part
of the solution if 𝑓(𝑥) ≥ 0.

Supplementary Exercise: Determine the value of x.

𝑥 2 +3𝑥−5 5𝑥 2𝑥 𝑥+2
1. Given 𝑥−2
<1 2. 𝑥 2 +𝑥 − 𝑥 2 +4𝑥 = 𝑥 2 +5𝑥+4

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 14
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 Before going further, let us see if you can answer this exercise. I know you can
do it! This will help you to determine your prior knowledge about this topic. Good
luck!
SHORT QUIZ
What’s More?
A. Determine the asymptotes, intercepts, domain and range of each of the
following rational functions.

RATIONAL FUNCTIONS VERTICAL ASYMPTOTES HORIZONTAL ASYMPTOTES

𝑥 2 −5𝑥+5
1.𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−2

𝑥−1
2.𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥+1

1
3.𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2

4𝑥 2 −3
4.𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥 2 −2𝑥

2𝑥 2 −5𝑥+1
5.𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥−3

X- Y-
B. VA HA DOMAIN RANGE
INTERCEPT INTERCEPT

5
1.𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑋+2

𝑥
2.𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥 2 −3𝑥−4

1
3.𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−3

𝑥+3
4.𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥+4

𝑥 2 +3𝑥−4
5.𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 −16

A. Determine the solution set of the following inequalities using the case
method.

𝒙𝟑 +𝟐𝒙
1. x 2 − 3x < 10 3. ≤𝟎
𝟗𝒙𝟐 −𝟏

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 15
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 𝒙+𝟏
2. ≥𝟐
𝒙−𝟑

Now, let us check your progress. Being guided with the attached rubrics,
accomplished the activity in this section of the module.

Fully meeting Minimally meeting Not yet meeting

Content
What I can do? expectation expectations expectations
Correct and
complete solution Incomplete solution and
Wrong solution. (3
Solution (7) with no have mathematical errors.
points)
mathematical (5 points)
errors. (7 points)
Accurate and Incomplete and have
Final Answer (3) precise final answer mathematical errors. (1 Wrong answer (0 point)
(3 points) point)

A. Solve value of x for each of the following rational equation. Check if it is an extraneous
solution.
𝒙 𝟏 𝒙 𝟒 𝟑𝟔
1. −𝟐= 5. − = 𝟐
𝒙−𝟑 𝒙−𝟑 𝒙−𝟒 𝒙+𝟓 𝒙 +𝒙−𝟐𝟎

𝟑𝒙 𝟐𝒙 𝟏𝟐
2. 𝟑𝒙−𝟔
− 𝟐𝒙+𝟒 = 𝒙𝟐−𝟒

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 16
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 𝟓 𝟐 𝟏
3. 𝟐𝒙−𝟔
+ 𝟐𝒙−𝟐 = 𝒙𝟐−𝟒𝒙+𝟑

𝒙 𝟐 𝟓
4. + 𝟐 =
𝒙+𝟐 𝒙 +𝟓𝒙+𝟔 𝒙+𝟑

Explorer! Let us now test what you have learned in our adventure! I know you
can answer these questions! Good luck!

A. Encircle the correct answer.

1. Which of the following is a rational function?
ASSESSMENT
2𝑥 3 −4𝑥+1 7𝑥+1 𝑥 2−2𝑥+1
a. f(x) = b. f(x)= c. f(x)= √5(𝑥 − 3)3 d. f(x) =
5 2 4𝑥+3

2. Which of the following is a rational inequality?

1 3
a. 𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 − 21 < 0 c. =
4(𝑥−2) 2
1 1
b. ≥ d. 2 = (𝑥 + 3)(2𝑥 + 11)
2𝑥+3 2

2+3𝑥
3. What is the value of x which will make f(x) = undefined?
4𝑥+1

1 1
a. -1 b. - c. d. 1
4 4

4. Which of the following functions have the same set of domain and range?

1 1
a. f(x)= c. f(x) =
𝑥 2𝑥 2 −5

4𝑥+2 𝑥+2
b. f(x)= d. f(x) =
𝑥−5 1−𝑥

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 17
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 1 3
5. What is the LCD of = ?
𝑥 2 −9 5(𝑥+3)(𝑥−1)
a. (𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 1) c. 5(𝑥 − 3)(𝑥 − 1)
b. 5(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3)(𝑥 − 1)
a.
d. 5(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 3)(𝑥 + 3)(𝑥 − 1)

B. Graph the following rational function and complete the information below.

1
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥+1)2

Vertical asymptotes:
Horizontal asymptotes:
Domain:
Range:
x-intercept:
y-intercept:

x -5 -4 -3 -2 0 1 2 3

𝑓(𝑥)

𝑥−1
2. 𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥+4

Vertical asymptotes:
Horizontal asymptotes:
Domain:
Range:
x-intercept:
y-intercept:

x -5 -4 -3 -2 0 1 2 3

𝑓(𝑥)

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 18
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |
 3𝑥
3. 𝑓(𝑋) = 𝑥 2 −𝑥−2

Vertical asymptotes:
Horizontal asymptotes:
Domain:
Range:
x-intercept:
y-intercept:

x -5 -4 -3 -2 0 1 2 3

𝑓(𝑥)

Explorer! Please take time to watch the following videos attached in this section
before you proceed to the next lesson. For now, you may take your break.

Video Links:
ENRICHMENT
1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fR_9ke5-n8&feature=share
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-QD62P7cqw
3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riMIjVAqPTQ
4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lM72_LZNDs

NEXT LESSON: INVERSE FUNCTION

Santos, D., & Biason, M. G. (2016). MATH ACTIVATED: Engaged Yourself and
Our World GENERAL MATH Senior High School. Don Bosco Press.

REFERENCES Sirug, W. (2016). GENERAL MATHEMATICS for Senior High School, A

Comprehensive Approach. Mindshapers Co., INC.

The Organic Chemistry Tutor. (2018, January 24). solving rational equations
[Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fR_9ke5-
n8&feature=share

Introduction to Rational Functions - General Mathematics. (2020, October 12).

YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-QD62P7cqw

Solving Rational Equations (Part 1) - General Mathematics. (2020, October 13).

YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riMIjVAqPTQ

Solving Rational Equations (Part 2) - General Mathematics. (2020,

October 13). YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lM72_LZNDs

HOLY TRINITY COLLEGE OF GENERAL SANTOS CITY | SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM 19
GENERAL MATHEM,ATICS CORE SUBJECT FOR ABM, HUMSS, STEM, AND TVL |