Continuity of a Function of Two Variables

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SUMMARY

The function f(x,y) = (x^2 - y^2)/(x-y) is not continuous at the point (1,1) when defined as f(1,1) = 0. The limit of the function as (x,y) approaches (1,1) is 2, not 0, indicating a discontinuity at that point. The expression (x^2 - y^2) can be factored using the difference of squares, leading to the simplification that reveals the limit behavior. Therefore, the function's definition at (1,1) does not align with the limit, confirming its discontinuity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of limits in multivariable calculus
  • Familiarity with the concept of continuity in functions
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation, specifically the difference of squares
  • Basic proficiency in evaluating limits in two variables
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  • Study the definition of continuity for multivariable functions
  • Learn about the epsilon-delta definition of limits in calculus
  • Explore the concept of removable discontinuities in functions
  • Investigate the implications of defining functions at points of discontinuity
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Students and educators in calculus, mathematicians analyzing multivariable functions, and anyone seeking to understand the continuity of functions in higher dimensions.

DeadxBunny
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Question:
Is the function f(x,y) = (x^2 - y^2)/(x-y) continuous at (1,1) if we set f(1,1) = 0? Why or why not?

So far, I've just plugged 1 in for x and y and found the limit to equal 0. I guess that means that the limit is not continuous at (1,1)? And what do they mean by set f(1,1) = 0?

Thanks for your help!
 
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The function f(x,y) = (x^2 - y^2)/(x-y) is not defined at (1,1), since:
(1-1)/(1-1)=0/0.
So setting f(1,1)=0, means defining a value for the function at (1,1).

By the way. The limit is not equal to 0.
Note that : (a+b)(a-b)=a^2-b^2.
 
[tex]\lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow(1,1)}f(x,y)=\lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow(1,1)}\frac{x^2-y^2}{x-y}=\lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow(1,1)}\frac{(x+y)(x-y)}{x-y}=\lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow(1,1)}x+y=2[/tex]
 
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