Analysis calculus proof kick start question

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving the continuity of a function defined on the real numbers, given that it is continuous at zero and satisfies the property f(x₁ + x₂) = f(x₁) + f(x₂) for all real numbers x₁ and x₂.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the function being continuous at zero and how this relates to the overall continuity of the function. There is an attempt to understand the significance of the functional equation and its connection to continuity.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing hints and exploring different aspects of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the evaluation of f(0) and the use of limits to establish continuity.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the constraints of the problem, including the specific properties of the function and the requirement to prove continuity across all real numbers based on the given conditions.

gaborfk
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Homework Statement


Prove: If [tex]f[/tex] is defined on [tex]\mathbb{R}[/tex] and continuous at [tex]x=0[/tex], and if [tex]f(x_{1}+x_{2})=f(x_{1})+f(x_{2})[/tex] [tex]\forall x_{1},x_{2} \in\mathbb{R}[/tex], then [tex]f[/tex] is continuous at all [tex]x\in\mathbb{R}[/tex].


Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



Need a pointer to get started. Cannot wrap my head around it. I understand that I need to prove that the sum of two continuous functions is continuous also.
 
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there is only one function here, f , it has the property that f(x + y) = f(x) + f(y) for all x, y


hint, show f(0) = 0
 
I know that the function is continuous at x=0. So how does showing it is continuous at zero help with showing the function with the property [tex]f(x_{1}+x_{2})=f(x_{1})+f(x_{2})[/tex] is continuous?

Thank you
 
f is continuous at x= a if and only if
[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow a}f(x)= f(a)[/itex]. <br /> <br /> If h= x- a, then x= a+ h and h goes to 0 as x goes to a: that becomes <br /> [itex]\lim_{h\rightarrow 0}f(x+a)= f(a)[/itex].[/tex]
 
Hi gaborfk! :smile:

Hint: f(a + epsilon) = f(a) + f(epsilon) :smile:
 

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