How do you graph y=(x^2-2x)/(2x+3) using asymptotes, intercepts, end behavior?

1 Answer
Aug 24, 2016

graph{(x^2-2x)/(2x+3) [-20, 20, -10, 10]}

Explanation:

y=(x^2-2x)/(2x+3)

a)
You can already tell that it has a vertical asymptote. Just let the denominator equal to zero and solve for x.
2x+3=0 so x=-3/2 (evident on the graph above).

b)
y shows zero values when x=0 and x=2

c)
Next, if x->+-oo, y->+-oo
Roughly speaking;
y=(oo^2)/(oo)=oo and y=oo^2/-oo=-oo
*Mathematicians hate seeing the infinity symbol used like this. I think it is because infinity cannot simply be seen as a number but more of a concept.

d)
Finally, find the turning points;
dy/dx=2/(2x+3)^2(x^2+3x-3)=0
In other words; x^2+3x-3=0
Using (-b+-sqrt(b^2-4ac))/2 you will find x=(-3+-sqrt(21))/2.

So far, you have found these important points:
-Asymptote x=-3/2
-Points (0,0) and (2,0)
-(x->oo,y->oo) and (x->-oo,y->-oo)
-Turning points at x=(-3+-sqrt(21))/2

These should be enough to help you see the shape of your graph.
Cheers.