Math Problem Statement

Evaluate the following limit: lim (x → 4+) [(x³ + 2x² - 3x) / (x² - 5x + 4)].

Solution

The problem involves evaluating the one-sided limit:

limx4+x3+2x23xx25x+4.\lim_{x \to 4^+} \frac{x^3 + 2x^2 - 3x}{x^2 - 5x + 4}.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Factorize the denominator: x25x+4=(x4)(x1).x^2 - 5x + 4 = (x - 4)(x - 1).

  2. Analyze the numerator: The numerator is x3+2x23xx^3 + 2x^2 - 3x. Factor out xx: x3+2x23x=x(x2+2x3).x^3 + 2x^2 - 3x = x(x^2 + 2x - 3). Now factorize x2+2x3x^2 + 2x - 3: x2+2x3=(x+3)(x1).x^2 + 2x - 3 = (x + 3)(x - 1). Therefore, the numerator becomes: x(x+3)(x1).x(x + 3)(x - 1).

  3. Simplify the fraction: Substituting the factored forms of the numerator and denominator: x3+2x23xx25x+4=x(x+3)(x1)(x4)(x1).\frac{x^3 + 2x^2 - 3x}{x^2 - 5x + 4} = \frac{x(x + 3)(x - 1)}{(x - 4)(x - 1)}. Cancel out the (x1)(x - 1) term (valid since x1x \neq 1): x(x+3)x4.\frac{x(x + 3)}{x - 4}.

  4. Evaluate the one-sided limit as x4+x \to 4^+: Substitute x=4x = 4 into the simplified fraction: x(x+3)x4=4(4+3)44.\frac{x(x + 3)}{x - 4} = \frac{4(4 + 3)}{4 - 4}. This results in: 470+=280+.\frac{4 \cdot 7}{0^+} = \frac{28}{0^+}.

    Since the denominator approaches 0+0^+ (positive from the right-hand side), the fraction tends towards ++\infty.

Final Answer:

limx4+x3+2x23xx25x+4=+.\lim_{x \to 4^+} \frac{x^3 + 2x^2 - 3x}{x^2 - 5x + 4} = +\infty.


Would you like further explanation or more examples of similar problems? Here are 5 related questions to consider:

  1. What is the significance of one-sided limits, and how do they differ from two-sided limits?
  2. How do you handle limits involving indeterminate forms, such as 0/00/0?
  3. Can this method of factoring and simplifying always be applied for polynomial expressions?
  4. How does the behavior of a function change near a vertical asymptote?
  5. What is the role of limits in determining the continuity of a function?

Tip:

When evaluating limits, always check for factors that cancel in the numerator and denominator, as they may reveal removable discontinuities or simplify the problem.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Polynomial Factorization
One-Sided Limits
Asymptotic Behavior

Formulas

Factoring quadratic expressions
Limit evaluation rules

Theorems

Limit Laws
Behavior near vertical asymptotes

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12 or College Level