Math E1

Lesson 3: Continuity
Continuity

Ø A function � �  is said to be continuous at � = � if it satisfies the

condition:
1. � �   exists
lim� �   exists
2. �→�
3. lim  � � = � �
�→�

If the 3 conditions do not exist, then the � � is said to be discontinuous.

 Apply the definition of continuity to prove that � � = 2 − �3 is continuous at � = 1

Solution:
1. � � exists at � = 1 3. lim � � = � �
�→�
3
� 1 =2− 1 lim 2 − �3 = � 1
�→1
=1
1=1
2. lim � � exists
�→�
Thus, � � = 2 − �3 is continuous at � = 1
lim 2 − �3 = 2 − 1 3
�→1  
=1
Point of Discontinuity

 A point at which a function is discontinuous or undefined.

 Occurs when a number is both zero on the numerator and
denominator.
Point of Discontinuity
Examples:
Find � for which the following functions are discontinuous.
�−3 6�−9
1. � = 2. � =
2�+3 2�−3
2� + 3 = 0 2� − 3 = 0
2� =− 3 2� = 3
3 3
� =− �=
2 2
Point of Discontinuity

�2 +3 3�+2
3. y= 2 4. y=
� −16 �2 −6�+9

Consider Let
   �2 − 16 = 0
�2 − 6� + 9 = 0
   �2 = 16
� =± 16 �−3 2 =0
� =± 4 �−3=0
� =3
Exercises:
Find � for which the following functions are discontinuous.

�+4
1. � =
3�+5

4�+10
2. � =
2�+5

�2 +4�−5
3. � =
�2 +7�+10