The rational function f(x) = P(x) / Q(x) in lowest terms has no horizontal asymptotes if the degree of the numerator, P(x), is greater than the degree of denominator, Q(x).

How do you know if a function has no horizontal asymptote?

If the polynomial in the numerator is a lower degree than the denominator, the x-axis (y = 0) is the horizontal asymptote. If the polynomial in the numerator is a higher degree than the denominator, there is no horizontal asymptote.

Which function types have no asymptotes?

We've learned that the graphs of polynomials are smooth & continuous. They have no asymptotes of any kind. Rational algebraic functions (having numerator a polynomial & denominator another polynomial) can have asymptotes; vertical asymptotes come about from denominator factors that could be zero.