Further Pure Mathematics - 4PM1 PearsonEdexcel

Graphs Of Polynomials And Rational Functions

Overview

A well-drawn sketch can reveal everything about a function: where it crosses the axes, where it shoots off towards infinity, and how it behaves for very large or very small values of the variable. In this topic you will learn to read and produce those sketches for polynomials of any degree and for rational functions whose denominator is linear.

You will connect the algebra you already know (roots, factors, long division) with the geometry of curves, and master the concept of asymptotes: the invisible boundary lines that a graph approaches but never crosses. These skills are tested heavily on both Papers 1 and 2 of the Edexcel 4PM1 examination.

Objectives

  1. Sketch and interpret graphs of polynomials and rational functions with linear denominators
  2. Understand the concept of asymptotes parallel to the coordinate axes

Lesson Note

Every equation has a story, and its graph is the picture. A parabola opening upward tells you the function has a minimum; a cubic with three x-intercepts tells you the polynomial has three real roots. Learning to sketch these shapes quickly, and to read them accurately, is one of the most powerful tools in your mathematical toolkit.

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Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Graphs Of Polynomials And Rational Functions. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. What is the horizontal asymptote of y = (3x + 1)/(x - 5)? A) y = 1 B) y = 3 C) y = 5 D) y = -5 Answer: B
  2. A cubic polynomial with a positive leading coefficient behaves so that as x approaches positive infinity, y approaches: A) Negative infinity B) Zero C) Positive infinity D) A constant Answer: C
  3. The graph of y = (x - 2)^2(x + 1) touches the x-axis at: A) x = -2 B) x = 2 C) x = -1 D) x = 1 Answer: B
  4. Where is the vertical asymptote of y = (x + 3)/(2x - 4)? A) x = -3 B) x = 2 C) x = 4 D) x = -2 Answer: B
  5. A polynomial of degree 4 with a negative leading coefficient has end behaviour where: A) Both ends point upward B) Both ends point downward C) Left end up, right end down D) Left end down, right end up Answer: B

Available on the Green Bridge App

Download the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer to access full lesson notes, practice questions, and more.

Full lesson notes with diagrams
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Study offline, anytime, anywhere
Available on Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux

Available on the Green Bridge App

Download the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer to access full lesson notes, practice questions, and more.

Full lesson notes with diagrams
AI-powered learning assistant
Study offline, anytime, anywhere
Available on Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux

Practice Mock Questions

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