Calc: Epsilon-Delta Proof of lim (-3x+1)=-5 as x->2

We have thus established that:\lim_{x\to2}(-3x+1)=-5In summary, we need to find a delta value that satisfies the given conditions in order to prove the limit. By considering the absolute value of the expression and choosing a suitable delta value, we can show that the limit is indeed equal to -5.
  • #1
MarkFL
Gold Member
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Here is the question:

Calc: epsilon/delta proof?

Write out an epsilon/delta proof to show that:

lim (-3x+1)=-5
x->2

I have posted a link there to this topic so the OP may see my work.
 
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  • #2
Hello Bill:

We are given to prove:

\(\displaystyle \lim_{x\to2}(-3x+1)=-5\)

For any given $\epsilon>0$, we wish to find a $\delta$ so that:

$|-3x+1+5|<\epsilon$ whenever $0<|x-2|<\delta$

To do this, consider:

\(\displaystyle |-3x+1+5|=|-3x+6|=3|x-2|\)

Thus, to make:

\(\displaystyle 3|x-2|<\epsilon\)

we need only make:

\(\displaystyle 0<|x-2|<\frac{\epsilon}{3}\)

We may then choose:

\(\displaystyle \delta=\frac{\epsilon}{3}\)

Verification:

If \(\displaystyle 0<|x-2|<\frac{\epsilon}{3}\), then \(\displaystyle 3|x-2|<\epsilon\) implies:

\(\displaystyle |3x-6|=|-3x+6|=|(-3x+1)-(-5)|<\epsilon\)
 

1. What is the definition of a limit?

The limit of a function f(x) as x approaches a point c is the value that f(x) approaches as x gets closer and closer to c. In other words, it is the value that f(x) "approaches" as x "approaches" c.

2. What is an epsilon-delta proof?

An epsilon-delta proof is a rigorous mathematical approach to proving the existence of a limit. It involves choosing a small positive number (epsilon) and showing that for any x-values within a certain distance (delta) of the limit point, the function values are within epsilon of the limit value.

3. How do you prove a limit using the epsilon-delta method?

To prove a limit using the epsilon-delta method, you must show that for any small positive number epsilon, there exists a corresponding distance delta such that if the distance between x and the limit point is less than delta, then the distance between f(x) and the limit value is less than epsilon.

4. What is the limit of (-3x+1) as x approaches 2?

The limit of (-3x+1) as x approaches 2 is -5.

5. Why is it important to use the epsilon-delta proof for proving limits?

The epsilon-delta proof is important because it provides a rigorous and systematic approach to proving the existence of a limit. It also allows for a deeper understanding of the concept of limits and ensures that the limit value is truly the value that the function approaches as x gets closer and closer to the limit point.

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