How do we work out the asymptotes of the graph y=1/x -5

In most core 1 papers this kind of question is usually asked. First of all an asymptote is a line that is close to an axis but never touches it. Now look at the graph as a normal reciprocal graph of y=1/x the only difference now is that it has -5 added to the end. Draw the graph y=1/x and move it down the y-axis 5 spaces. This will be your y=1/x -5. You can then work out the x-intercept which would be 2/5. What you will see is two asymptotes along the y and x axis. The asymptote along the y-axis must be x=0 as that asymptote hadn't changed from the previous y=1/x graph. However, the asymptote along the x-axis has changed, since we moved the graph down 5 spaces along the y-axis, the asymptote must be y=-5. 

AB
Answered by Aniqah B. Maths tutor

9099 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find all solutions to the equation 8sin^2(theta) - 4 = 0 in the interval 2(pi) < (theta) < 4(pi)


How do you integrate by parts?


Show by induction that sum_n(r*3^(r-1))=1/4+(3^n/4)*(2n-1) for n>0


Find the equation of the tangent to the curve y = 2 ln(2e - x) at the point on the curve where x = e.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning