Are These Properties of Odd Functions True?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of odd functions in calculus, specifically examining various assumptions related to derivatives, limits, and asymptotic behavior. Participants are exploring whether certain statements about odd functions hold true under specified conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the validity of several assumptions regarding the behavior of odd functions, particularly in relation to their derivatives and limits. There is a focus on whether the properties of odd functions imply specific behaviors in their derivatives and asymptotes.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications and confirmations regarding the properties of odd functions, particularly noting that the derivative of an odd function is even. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of these properties, with some statements being confirmed while others are challenged.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing properties of odd functions without a complete consensus on all points, indicating that some assumptions may require further examination or clarification.

h_k331
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I've come to a few assumtions that my text hasn't covered yet, and I was hoping someone could confirm these for me or let me know where I might be missing something.

Assuming f is an odd function and a > 0 and b > 0 and a < b:

If f'(x) > 0 on (a,b), then f'(x) < 0 on (-b,-a).

If f''(x) > 0 on (a,b), then f''(x) < 0 on (-b,-a).

If lim (x->a) f(x) = inf, then lim (x->-a) f(x) = -inf

If x = a is a vertical asymptote of f, then x = -a is also a vertical asymptote of f.

If lim (x->inf) f(x) = L, then lim (x->-inf) f(x) = -L

If y = L is a horizontal asymptote of f, then y = -L is also a horizontal asymptote of f.

If f is odd and f is continuous on (-a,a), then f(0) = 0



Thanks,
hk
 
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The derivative of an odd function is an even function. Anything else you want to know can be taken from that.

Also, to be "odd" requires that f(0) = 0. Figure out why.
 
h_k331 said:
I've come to a few assumtions that my text hasn't covered yet, and I was hoping someone could confirm these for me or let me know where I might be missing something.

Assuming f is an odd function and a > 0 and b > 0 and a < b:

If f'(x) > 0 on (a,b), then f'(x) < 0 on (-b,-a).
No! If f(x) is odd, then f'(x) is even. f' will have the same sign (indeed exactly the same values) for both (a,b) and (-b,-a).
An easy example: if f(x)= x, then f'(x)= 1 for all x.
If f''(x) > 0 on (a,b), then f''(x) < 0 on (-b,-a).
Yes, this is true. If f(x) is odd, then f'(x) is even and f"(x) is odd again.
If lim (x->a) f(x) = inf, then lim (x->-a) f(x) = -inf
Yes. Also if lim(x->)f(x)= L, then lim(x->-a)f(x)= -L.
If x = a is a vertical asymptote of f, then x = -a is also a vertical asymptote of f.
Yes. This is essentially just a restatement of the previous statement of "If lm(x->a) f(x)= inf, then lim(x->-a)f(x)= -inf".
If lim (x->inf) f(x) = L, then lim (x->-inf) f(x) = -L
Yes. In fact, as above, this is true for (x-> any number) as well.
If y = L is a horizontal asymptote of f, then y = -L is also a horizontal asymptote of f.
Yes. This is just a restatement of "If lim(x->inf)= L, then lim(x->-inf)(f)= -L
If f is odd and f is continuous on (-a,a), then f(0) = 0
You don't need "and f is continuous on (-a,a)". If f is odd then f(-x)= -f(x) for all x. Taking x= 0, f(-0)= f(0)= -f(0) so 2f(0)= 0 and f(0)= 0.



Thanks,
hk
 
Thank you for your reply HallsofIvy, I have a better understanding now.

hk
 

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