Proving If f(x)>0 for All x for Dogma

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that if f(x) > 0 for all x, then \lim_{x\rightarrow x_o} f(x) ≥ 0 for any x_o. The user, identified as "dogma," proposes a proof by contradiction, assuming \lim_{x\rightarrow x_o} f(x) = A < 0. The conversation emphasizes the need to find an appropriate ε and demonstrate that f(x) must be less than 0 for some x, which contradicts the initial condition. Key mathematical concepts such as limits and ε-δ definitions are integral to this proof.

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dogma
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Hi all.

I'm doing some self studying on limits, and...I have the following problem with this problem...

Prove: If [tex]f(x)>0[/tex] for all [tex]x[/tex], then [tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow x_o} f(x)\geq 0[/tex] for any [tex]x_o[/tex]

I'm assuming the best way to prove this is through contradiction:

Assume [tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow x_o} f(x) = A < 0[/tex]

This as far I get before vapor lock sets in. I guess I need to find an appropriate [tex]\epsilon[/tex] and then try to show/not show that [tex]f(x) < 0[/tex] for at least one [tex]x[/tex].

Can someone please point me on the right direction?

Thanks,
dogma
 
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[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow x_o} f(x) = - A[/tex] means: for all [tex]\epsilon > 0[/tex] there exist a [tex]\delta > 0[/tex] such that [tex]f( \left]x_0 - \delta, x_0 + \delta \right[) \subset \left]-A-\epsilon, -A+\epsilon \right[[/tex]. So in particular what do we get for [tex]\epsilon = A[/tex]?
 

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