Math Problem Statement

is it infinte or -infinite

Is it infinite or -infinite?

Solution

The given limit is:

limx414x\lim_{x \to 4} \frac{-1}{4 - x}

Solution:

As xx approaches 4 from either side, the denominator (4x)(4 - x) approaches 0. Let's analyze the behavior from both sides:

  1. As x4+x \to 4^+ (from the right):

    • When xx is slightly greater than 4, 4x4 - x is a small negative number.
    • Therefore, 14x\frac{-1}{4 - x} becomes a large positive number because you are dividing a negative number by a small negative value.
  2. As x4x \to 4^- (from the left):

    • When xx is slightly less than 4, 4x4 - x is a small positive number.
    • Therefore, 14x\frac{-1}{4 - x} becomes a large negative number because you are dividing a negative number by a small positive value.

Conclusion:

  • As x4+x \to 4^+, the limit tends to ++\infty.
  • As x4x \to 4^-, the limit tends to -\infty.

Thus, the limit does not exist because the left-hand and right-hand limits approach different infinities.

However, if you're considering the behavior from one specific side:

  • If you meant x4+x \to 4^+ (from the right), the limit is ++\infty.
  • If you meant x4x \to 4^- (from the left), the limit is -\infty.

Would you like more details or explanations on any part of this?

Here are 5 related questions to expand:

  1. What is the formal definition of a limit at infinity?
  2. How do we determine left-hand and right-hand limits?
  3. What happens if both left-hand and right-hand limits go to the same infinity?
  4. How does L'Hôpital's Rule apply to limits with indeterminate forms?
  5. Can limits at infinity be finite?

Tip: When evaluating limits, always check for different behaviors on either side of the point, especially when the denominator tends to zero.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Infinity
Left-hand and Right-hand Limits

Formulas

\lim_{x \to 4} \frac{-1}{4 - x}

Theorems

Left-hand and Right-hand limits

Suitable Grade Level

Grade 11-12 (Pre-calculus or Calculus)