Math Problem Statement

Analyze the graph of y = f(x) to determine: (a) if \( \lim_{x \to 0} f(x) \) exists, (b) if f(x) is continuous at x = 0, and (c) if f(x) is differentiable at x = 0.

Solution

Let's analyze the graph of y=f(x)y = f(x) and answer each of the provided questions:

(a) Does limx0f(x)\lim_{x \to 0} f(x) exist?

From the graph, observe the behavior of f(x)f(x) as xx approaches 0 from both sides (left and right):

  • As xx approaches 0 from the left (x0x \to 0^-), the function decreases without bound, tending towards negative infinity.
  • As xx approaches 0 from the right (x0+x \to 0^+), the function increases without bound, tending towards positive infinity.

Since the left-hand and right-hand limits are not equal and both tend towards infinity in opposite directions, the limit does not exist.

Answer: No

(b) Is f(x)f(x) continuous at x=0x = 0?

For a function to be continuous at a point, three conditions must be satisfied:

  1. The function must be defined at that point.
  2. The limit as xx approaches the point must exist.
  3. The value of the function at the point must equal the limit as xx approaches the point.

From the graph, we see that:

  • The limit as x0x \to 0 does not exist.
  • Additionally, it seems that f(0)f(0) is undefined, as there is no specific point shown for x=0x = 0.

Therefore, f(x)f(x) is not continuous at x=0x = 0.

Answer: No

(c) Is f(x)f(x) differentiable at x=0x = 0?

A function is differentiable at a point if it is continuous and has a well-defined slope (tangent) at that point. Since we already determined that f(x)f(x) is not continuous at x=0x = 0, it cannot be differentiable there.

Answer: No


Let me know if you'd like more details or have any questions! Here are some related questions to explore further:

  1. What are the necessary conditions for differentiability at a point?
  2. Can a function be continuous but not differentiable at a point? If so, give an example.
  3. What is the relationship between left-hand and right-hand limits for continuity?
  4. How does the existence of vertical asymptotes affect the limit at a point?
  5. What are common examples of functions with discontinuities at a point?

Tip: Always check the behavior of the function from both sides when evaluating limits!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Continuity
Differentiability

Formulas

\( \lim_{x \to a} f(x) \)

Theorems

Continuity Definition
Differentiability Definition

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12