Math Problem Statement
f(x) = x2 − 4x x2 − 16 ,
x = 4.1, 4.05, 4.01, 4.001, 4.0001, 3.9, 3.95, 3.99, 3.999, 3.9999 x f(x) 4.1
Incorrect: Your answer is incorrect. 4.05 4.01 4.001 4.0001
x f(x) 3.9 3.95 3.99 3.999 3.9999
Solution
The function you have is:
To begin, simplify the function and then calculate the values for at the given values.
Step 1: Simplifying the function
Notice that can be factored as a difference of squares:
Thus, the function becomes:
For all , the terms cancel out, leaving:
At , the original form results in division by zero, so the function is undefined there.
Step 2: Calculate for the given values of
For each of the following values, we'll compute .
- :
- :
- :
- :
- :
Now, for values of approaching from the left (less than 4):
- :
- :
- :
- :
- :
Summary of Results
4.1 | 0.50617 |
4.05 | 0.50311 |
4.01 | 0.50062 |
4.001 | 0.50012 |
4.0001 | 0.50001 |
3.9 | 0.49367 |
3.95 | 0.49748 |
3.99 | 0.49937 |
3.999 | 0.49987 |
3.9999 | 0.49999 |
Do you need further details or clarification? Here are some related questions you might want to explore:
- What happens at ? Why is it undefined?
- How does the behavior of the function change as approaches 4 from the left and right?
- Can we graph the function and identify key features such as asymptotes?
- What is the limit of as ?
- Can this function be further generalized for other values of parameters?
Tip: When working with rational functions, always check for points of discontinuity by factoring and simplifying the expressions.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Algebra
Rational Functions
Limits
Factoring
Formulas
f(x) = (x^2 - 4x) / (x^2 - 16)
f(x) = x / (x + 4), for x ≠ 4
Theorems
Limit of a function
Factoring difference of squares
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12