Math Problem Statement

The function f(x) is graphed above. Evaluate the following limits: a) lim(x→2⁺) f(x) b) lim(x→−2) f(x) c) lim(x→2) f(x) d) lim(x→1) f(x)

Solution

Let's evaluate the limits based on the graph provided.

a) limx2+f(x)=0\lim_{x \to 2^+} f(x) = 0

This is the right-hand limit as xx approaches 2. On the graph, as xx approaches 2 from the right, the value of f(x)f(x) appears to approach 0. Therefore, the right-hand limit is indeed:

limx2+f(x)=0\lim_{x \to 2^+} f(x) = 0

b) limx2f(x)\lim_{x \to -2} f(x)

Here, we are asked for the two-sided limit as xx approaches -2. From the graph:

  • As xx approaches -2 from the left, f(x)f(x) approaches -4.
  • As xx approaches -2 from the right, f(x)f(x) also approaches -4.

Since both the left-hand and right-hand limits agree, the limit exists, and we have:

limx2f(x)=4\lim_{x \to -2} f(x) = -4

c) limx2f(x)\lim_{x \to 2} f(x)

This asks for the two-sided limit as xx approaches 2.

  • As xx approaches 2 from the left, f(x)f(x) approaches 4.
  • As xx approaches 2 from the right, f(x)f(x) approaches 0.

Since the left-hand and right-hand limits do not match, the two-sided limit does not exist. Therefore:

limx2f(x) does not exist.\lim_{x \to 2} f(x) \text{ does not exist.}

d) limx1f(x)=1\lim_{x \to 1} f(x) = -1

Looking at the graph as xx approaches 1, both from the left and right, f(x)f(x) is approaching -1. Hence:

limx1f(x)=1\lim_{x \to 1} f(x) = -1

Summary of answers:

a) limx2+f(x)=0\lim_{x \to 2^+} f(x) = 0
b) limx2f(x)=4\lim_{x \to -2} f(x) = -4
c) limx2f(x) does not exist\lim_{x \to 2} f(x) \text{ does not exist}
d) limx1f(x)=1\lim_{x \to 1} f(x) = -1

Let me know if you need further details or clarification! Here are five related questions to expand on this:

  1. What is the left-hand limit as x2x \to 2^- for f(x)f(x)?
  2. How do left-hand and right-hand limits relate to continuity at a point?
  3. What is the definition of a two-sided limit and when does it exist?
  4. Can a function have different left-hand and right-hand limits but still be defined at that point?
  5. How do limits relate to the derivative of a function?

Tip: When evaluating a two-sided limit, check both the left-hand and right-hand limits separately. If they are not equal, the two-sided limit does not exist.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Continuity
Graphing functions

Formulas

Limit formula: lim(x→c) f(x) = L if f(x) approaches L as x approaches c from both sides
Right-hand limit: lim(x→c⁺) f(x)
Left-hand limit: lim(x→c⁻) f(x)

Theorems

Limit existence theorem
Continuity at a point

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12, early college