Simplifying Limit (1/sqrtx - 1/2)/(x-4) | Step-by-Step Solution Explained

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SUMMARY

The limit of the expression (1/sqrt(x) - 1/2) / (x - 4) as x approaches 4 is definitively -1/16. To solve this limit, applying l'Hôpital's Rule is effective, as it simplifies the evaluation of indeterminate forms. Alternatively, rewriting the expression as (1/sqrt(x) - 1/2) / ((sqrt(x) - 2)(sqrt(x) + 2)) provides a clear path to the solution without needing l'Hôpital's Theorem. Both methods yield the same result.

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RadiationX
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For the life of me I can't figure this limit out

lim ( 1/sqt x - 1/2)/ ( X -4)
x->4


I KNOW THE ANSWER IS -1/16 BUT WHAT ARE THE STEPS NECESSARY TO REACH THIS SOLUTION?
THANKS FOR ANY HELP.
 
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Try l'Hopital's rule- it works!
 
Another way (if I understand your problem correctly) would be to rewrite the given function as

[tex]\frac{\frac{1}{\sqrt{x}} - \frac{1}{2}}{(\sqrt{x}-2)(\sqrt{x}+2)}[/tex]

if you're not familiar with L-Hospital's Theorem.

Cheers
Vivek
 

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