If the degree of the numerator of a rational function is one greater than the degree of the denominator, the graph has an [b]oblique [/b]or [b]slant line asymptote[/b]. In this interactive figure, you can experiment with the slope and [i][math]y[/math][/i]-intercept to try to obtain the oblique asymptote. The graph can be zoomed out to see if the asymptote still looks correct. You can display a divided form of the function (which may not be displayed in its simplified form). Various examples for [math]f(x)[/math] are given (use the top slider) or you can enter your own example. Changing to another example will reset the axes to their original scale.

[i]Developed for use with Thomas' Calculus, published by Pearson.[/i]