(1+x)^(1/z) - Limit as x approaches 0

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SUMMARY

The limit of the expression (1+x)^(1/z) as x approaches 0 is e, which is a fundamental definition of the mathematical constant e, the base of natural logarithms. The variable z is unnecessary in this context and should be replaced with x. A common method to prove this limit involves substituting y = 1/x, leading to the equivalent limit of (1 + 1/y)^y as y approaches infinity, which can be demonstrated using the Binomial theorem and compared with the Taylor series for e.

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I was given this as a practice question, and assumed that the answer would be 0.

The answer is e, but no explanation is given and I cannot figure out why this is. z is undefined in the question.

If anyone could shed some light it would be greatly appreciated.
 
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seasponges said:
I was given this as a practice question, and assumed that the answer would be 0.

The answer is e, but no explanation is given and I cannot figure out why this is. z is undefined in the question.

If anyone could shed some light it would be greatly appreciated.

There shouldn't be a z, it should simply be replaced by x.

\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} {(1 + x)}^{\frac{1}{x}} = e

That's actually one of the definitions for e (the base of natural logarithms). If you want a fairly elementary (but not very rigorous) way of proving it, consider putting y = \frac{1}{x}, from which you get the equivalent definition:

\lim_{y \rightarrow \infty} {(1 + \frac{1}{y})}^y = e

and apply Binomial theorem to the LHS. Expand and consider the limit as y tends to infinity. Now compare that with the Taylor series for e (e1).
 
Thankyou very much!
 

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