Math Problem Statement

Evaluate: lim (x → 5) (x^2 - 10x + 25) / (x^2 - 5)

Solution

The problem you have provided is asking to evaluate the following limit:

limx5x210x+25x25\lim_{x \to 5} \frac{x^2 - 10x + 25}{x^2 - 5}

Step-by-step solution:

  1. Simplify the numerator: The numerator is a quadratic expression x210x+25x^2 - 10x + 25, which can be factored as: x210x+25=(x5)2x^2 - 10x + 25 = (x - 5)^2

  2. Denominator analysis: The denominator is x25x^2 - 5, which cannot be factored further directly, but it is already simplified.

Thus, the expression becomes:

limx5(x5)2x25\lim_{x \to 5} \frac{(x - 5)^2}{x^2 - 5}

  1. Direct substitution: If we try to directly substitute x=5x = 5 into the expression, the numerator becomes (55)2=0(5 - 5)^2 = 0 and the denominator becomes 525=255=205^2 - 5 = 25 - 5 = 20.

Hence, we have:

020=0\frac{0}{20} = 0

Conclusion:

The value of the limit is 0\boxed{0}.

Would you like further details or clarifications on any step?

Here are five related questions you might find useful:

  1. What is the general process for factoring quadratic expressions?
  2. How do you handle limits that result in indeterminate forms like 0/00/0?
  3. How can you apply L'Hopital's Rule to limits involving fractions?
  4. What are the common techniques to simplify complex limits?
  5. Can all limits be evaluated by direct substitution?

Tip: Always check if direct substitution is possible before attempting more complex limit-solving techniques like factoring or L'Hopital's Rule.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Algebra
Quadratic Equations

Formulas

Limit Definition
(a - b)^2 = a^2 - 2ab + b^2

Theorems

Direct Substitution for Limits

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12