Math Problem Statement

Evaluate the limit lim (x -> e) (ln x - 1) / (x - e)

Solution

The given limit is:

limxelnx1xe\lim_{{x \to e}} \frac{\ln x - 1}{x - e}

This expression suggests applying L'Hôpital's Rule since substituting x=ex = e results in an indeterminate form 00\frac{0}{0}. L'Hôpital's Rule allows us to differentiate the numerator and the denominator separately.

Steps:

  1. Differentiate the numerator lnx1\ln x - 1 with respect to xx: ddx(lnx1)=1x\frac{d}{dx}(\ln x - 1) = \frac{1}{x}

  2. Differentiate the denominator xex - e with respect to xx: ddx(xe)=1\frac{d}{dx}(x - e) = 1

  3. Now apply L'Hôpital's Rule: limxelnx1xe=limxe1x1=1e\lim_{{x \to e}} \frac{\ln x - 1}{x - e} = \lim_{{x \to e}} \frac{\frac{1}{x}}{1} = \frac{1}{e}

Thus, the solution is: 1e\boxed{\frac{1}{e}}

Would you like further details or have any questions?


Here are some related questions for deeper understanding:

  1. What are the conditions for applying L'Hôpital's Rule?
  2. How does L'Hôpital's Rule handle higher-order indeterminate forms like 00\frac{0}{0} or \frac{\infty}{\infty}?
  3. What are some alternative methods for solving limits involving logarithms?
  4. How can you confirm the result of a limit using a numerical approach?
  5. What is the significance of the natural logarithm and Euler’s number ee in calculus?

Tip: Always check if the limit leads to an indeterminate form before applying L'Hôpital's Rule.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Calculus
Limits
L'Hôpital's Rule
Indeterminate Forms

Formulas

L'Hôpital's Rule: If lim (x -> c) f(x)/g(x) is in indeterminate form 0/0 or ∞/∞, then lim (x -> c) f(x)/g(x) = lim (x -> c) f'(x)/g'(x)
Derivative of ln x: d/dx(ln x) = 1/x

Theorems

L'Hôpital's Rule

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate Calculus