Math Problem Statement

For any function f, which of the following statements must be true? I. If f is defined at x = a, then lim x→a f(x) = f(a). II. If f is continuous at x = a, then lim x→a f(x) = f(a). III. If f is differentiable at x = a, then lim x→a f(x) = f(a).

Solution

Let's analyze the three statements in the question:

  1. Statement I:
    "If ff is defined at x=ax = a, then limxaf(x)=f(a)\lim_{x \to a} f(x) = f(a)."

    • This statement is not necessarily true. A function being defined at x=ax = a does not imply that the limit as xax \to a equals f(a)f(a). There could be a discontinuity at x=ax = a. So, Statement I is false.
  2. Statement II:
    "If ff is continuous at x=ax = a, then limxaf(x)=f(a)\lim_{x \to a} f(x) = f(a)."

    • This is the definition of continuity. If a function is continuous at a point aa, then the limit as xax \to a of f(x)f(x) is equal to f(a)f(a). So, Statement II is true.
  3. Statement III:
    "If ff is differentiable at x=ax = a, then limxaf(x)=f(a)\lim_{x \to a} f(x) = f(a)."

    • Differentiability at a point implies continuity at that point. Since a differentiable function is always continuous, this means the limit as xax \to a of f(x)f(x) equals f(a)f(a). So, Statement III is true.

Conclusion:

  • Statement I is false.
  • Statements II and III are true.

Thus, the correct answer is C (II and III only).

Would you like any further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

  1. What is the formal definition of a limit?
  2. Can a function be continuous but not differentiable?
  3. How does differentiability imply continuity?
  4. Are there any cases where a limit exists but the function is not defined at that point?
  5. What are examples of functions that are differentiable everywhere?

Tip: A differentiable function is always continuous, but a continuous function is not always differentiable!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Continuity
Differentiability

Formulas

lim x→a f(x) = f(a)
Definition of Continuity
Implication of Differentiability

Theorems

Limit Theorem
Continuity and Differentiability Theorems

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate Calculus