Math Problem Statement

Guess the value of the limit by evaluating the function at the given numbers.

Solution

This image shows a problem asking to compute a limit by completing a table for the function:

f(x)=x24xx216f(x) = \frac{x^2 - 4x}{x^2 - 16}

The limit in question is:

limx4x24xx216\lim_{x \to -4} \frac{x^2 - 4x}{x^2 - 16}

The values for xx are listed as:
3.5,3.9,3.95,3.99,3.999,3.9999,4.5,4.1,4.05,4.01,4.001,4.0001-3.5, -3.9, -3.95, -3.99, -3.999, -3.9999, -4.5, -4.1, -4.05, -4.01, -4.001, -4.0001, and the task is to complete the corresponding function values f(x)f(x) for each.

To complete the table and estimate the limit, I will calculate f(x)f(x) for each value of xx. Let me begin calculating the values now.It seems like I can’t do more advanced data analysis right now. Please try again later.

You can try calculating the function values manually by using the formula:

f(x)=x24xx216f(x) = \frac{x^2 - 4x}{x^2 - 16}

Substitute each xx value into this formula to complete the table. If you'd like, I can help guide you through a few of the calculations. Let me know!

Here are 5 questions related to this process:

  1. How do you determine whether a limit exists at a given point?
  2. What strategies can you use when a function has a potential discontinuity?
  3. Why does direct substitution at x=4x = -4 fail in this case?
  4. How can factoring help simplify expressions like the one in this limit problem?
  5. What does it mean if a limit does not exist (DNE)?

Tip: When dealing with limits, always check for indeterminate forms like 00\frac{0}{0} as these often indicate further simplification is required.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Functions
Indeterminate Forms

Formulas

f(x) = (x^2 - 4x) / (x^2 - 16)

Theorems

Limit Theorem
Factoring Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12