LIMITS

LIMITS
Notation:
“ The limit of f(x) as x approaches a” , where a is any constant (or
aR)
The limit of a function at point is the functional value as the point is
approached. In other words, it is the y-coordinate when the x-
coordinate is a.
As an example, if and we are interested in the limit of the function
when x approaches 3, we simply replace x by 3. Using the limit
notation,
5
2 possible results when evaluating limits
1. Definite result or Determinate (see previous
example)
2. or Indeterminate (cannot be determined YET)
Example.
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Examples of Determinate results:

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=
= Recall:
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3.
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4.
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Consider the function
Now, let’s assign some values of x and evaluate its functional value.
x f(x)
4 5
3.5 4.5
3.1 4.1
2.9 3.9
2.5 3.5
2 3
By using a table we were able to determine which is 4.
In general, we can find the value of an ‘indeterminate
limit’ by applying algebraic manipulations, particularly
Factoring and Rationalizing Radicals.
Examples of Indeterminate results

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= 3+1
=4
2.
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= = = =
3.
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= = =
4.
=   Rationalization
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Prepared by: Engr. Ted Erguiza