Ε-δ definition of a limit

In summary, to use the epsilon-delta definition of a limit to justify the answer of lim x->0 1/(x+1)=1, we can set δ=min{1/2,1/2ε} and show that if 0<|x-0|<δ, then |1/(x+1)-1|<ε. By manipulating the inequality, we can restrict |x|<1/2 and show that 1/2<|x+1|<3/2, which leads to |x|<|x+1|ε and ultimately |1/(x+1)-1|<ε, fulfilling the epsilon-delta condition.
  • #1
chapsticks
38
0

Homework Statement


use the elipson-delta of a limit to justify the answer of: show proof
lim x->0 1/(x+1)

Homework Equations



lim x->0 1/(x+1)=1

The Attempt at a Solution

lim x->0 1/(x+1)

I did some work but after that I don't know how to keep going.

if 0<|x-c|<δ => |f(x)-<ε|, then lim x->c f(x)=L
0<|x-0|<δ=> |1/(x+1)-1|
scratchwork: |1/(x+1)-1|<ε
|x/x+1|<ε
|x|/|x+1|<ε
|x|<|x+1|ε
restrict |x|<1/2
-1/2<x<1/2=>1/2<x+1<3/2=>1/2 <|x+1|
|x|<|x+1|ε
|x|<1/2 ε
δ=min{1/2,1/2ε}
how do I find the proof ??
 
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  • #2
chapsticks said:

Homework Statement


use the elipson-delta of a limit to justify the answer of: show proof

lim x->0 1/(x+1)=1

The Attempt at a Solution


I did some work but after that I don't know how to keep going.

if 0<|x-c|<δ => |f(x)-L| < ε then lim x->c f(x)=L
0<|x-0|<δ=> |1/(x+1)-1|
scratchwork: |1/(x+1)-1|<ε
|x/x+1|<ε
|x|/|x+1|<ε
|x|<|x+1|ε
restrict |x|<1/2
-1/2<x<1/2=>1/2<x+1<3/2=>1/2 <|x+1|
|x|<|x+1|ε
|x|<1/2 ε
δ=min{1/2,1/2ε}
how do I find the proof ??
For the most part, reverse the steps in the scratch-work part.

Of course, start with
Let ε > 0​
Then define: δ=min{1/2,1/2ε}

δ ≤ 1/2 should lead back to 1/2 <|x+1| if 0 < |x-0| < δ . What does that say about 1/|x+1|

δ ≤ ε/2 and 0 < |x-0| < δ give |x| < ε/2
This along with your conclusion about 1/|x+1|, should pretty much do the trick.​




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1. What is the "ε-δ definition of a limit"?

The ε-δ definition of a limit is a mathematical method used to determine the behavior of a function as it approaches a specific value or point. It involves finding the smallest possible value of δ (delta) for a given ε (epsilon) to ensure that the function stays within a certain range of the desired value.

2. How is the "ε-δ definition of a limit" used in calculus?

The ε-δ definition of a limit is a fundamental concept in calculus and is used to rigorously define the concept of a limit. It allows us to determine the behavior of a function at a specific point and is essential for finding derivatives and integrals.

3. What is the significance of the "ε-δ definition of a limit" in mathematics?

The ε-δ definition of a limit is essential in mathematics as it allows us to precisely define the concept of a limit and ensure that our calculations are accurate. It also plays a crucial role in proving theorems and solving complex problems in calculus and other areas of mathematics.

4. What are the key components of the "ε-δ definition of a limit"?

The key components of the ε-δ definition of a limit are the limit point (the value or point at which the function is approaching), the desired limit (the value or point that the function is approaching), ε (epsilon) as the error tolerance, and δ (delta) as the corresponding input tolerance.

5. What are some examples of using the "ε-δ definition of a limit" in practice?

One example of using the ε-δ definition of a limit in practice is finding the limit of a function at a specific point. Another example is using it to prove the continuity of a function at a given point. It is also used in the intermediate value theorem and the definition of derivatives and integrals.

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