Math Problem Statement

Which of the following functions has a limit of 0 as x goes to infinity?

Solution

Let's analyze the options one by one to determine which function has a limit of 0 as xx \to \infty:

  1. f(x)=x2f(x) = x^2: As xx \to \infty, x2x^2 grows without bound, so the limit is \infty, not 0.
  2. f(x)=cos(x)f(x) = \cos(x): The function cos(x)\cos(x) oscillates between -1 and 1 as xx \to \infty, so it does not settle to 0.
  3. f(x)=2xf(x) = 2^{-x}: As xx \to \infty, 2x=12x2^{-x} = \frac{1}{2^x} approaches 0 because the denominator grows exponentially.
  4. f(x)=xf(x) = x: As xx \to \infty, xx grows without bound, so the limit is \infty, not 0.
  5. f(x)=ln(x)f(x) = \ln(x): As xx \to \infty, ln(x)\ln(x) also grows without bound, although more slowly than xx.

The correct answer is:
f(x)=2xf(x) = 2^{-x} since this function approaches 0 as xx \to \infty.

Would you like a more detailed explanation or have any further questions?

Here are five related questions to further your understanding:

  1. What is the general behavior of exponential functions like axa^{-x} as xx \to \infty?
  2. How do logarithmic functions behave compared to linear functions as xx \to \infty?
  3. Can a trigonometric function like cos(x)\cos(x) ever have a limit as xx \to \infty?
  4. What is the difference between functions that grow polynomially and those that grow exponentially?
  5. Why does x2x^2 grow faster than ln(x)\ln(x) as xx \to \infty?

Tip: When analyzing limits, it's helpful to recognize the general growth rates of common functions like polynomials, exponentials, and logarithms.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Limits
Exponential Functions
Logarithmic Functions
Polynomial Growth
Trigonometric Functions

Formulas

Limit of 2^{-x} as x approaches infinity: 0
General limit behavior for exponential functions

Theorems

Exponential decay theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12