A function f(x) is defined as f(x) = (x - 1)/(x + 1) for x ≠ -1. Which of the following values of f(x) best describes the behavior of the function as x approaches -1?

Core Concept

To find the behavior of the function f(x) = (x - 1)/(x + 1) as x approaches -1, we can simplify the expression by factoring the numerator: f(x) = (x - 1)/(x + 1). Canceling the (x + 1) term, we get f(x) = (1 - 1/x) = (1 - x)/x. As x approaches -1, f(x) approaches negative ∞. The correct answer is B) f(x) approaches negative ∞. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the behavior of the function as x approaches -1.