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algebra intermediate
Problem
For what values of the constant does the graph of have exactly one vertical asymptote?
Enter the possible values of separated by commas.
Enter the possible values of separated by commas.
Solution
We can factor the denominator to get . Hence, the graph of has vertical asymptotes at and , unless there is a factor of or in the numerator that cancels out the corresponding factor in the denominator (in this case there will be a hole at that point rather than an asymptote).
By the Factor theorem, if has a factor of , we must have which gives us . Similarly, if has a factor of , we must have which gives us . Therefore, in order to have exactly one asymptote, we need .
By the Factor theorem, if has a factor of , we must have which gives us . Similarly, if has a factor of , we must have which gives us . Therefore, in order to have exactly one asymptote, we need .
Final answer
-2 \text{ or } -12