Applying the definition of a limit

In summary, the conversation discusses applying the definition of a limit to show that the limit of ((x^3 * y(y-1) ) / (x^2 + (y-1)^2) is equal to 0 as (x,y) approaches (0,1). The attempt at a solution involves breaking down the right side of the inequality using the distance formula and simplifying it to r^2(r+1).
  • #1
sinbad30
3
0

Homework Statement



Applying the definition of a limit to show that

lim ((x^3 * y(y-1) ) / (x^2 + (y-1)^2) = 0 as (x,y) approaches (0,1)



The Attempt at a Solution



|x| = sqrt(x^2) <= sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2))
|y-1|=sqrt((y-1)^2)<= sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2))
|y|<= |y-1| + 1 via the triangle inequality

Let e>0. We want to find d>0 such that

0 < sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)) < d then (|x|^3 |y| |y-1|)/ (x^2 + (y-1)^2) < e

So

(|x|^3 |y| |y-1|)/ (x^2 + (y-1)^2) <=
[(sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)))^3 * sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)) * (sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)) + 1) ] / (x^2 + (y-1)^2)

Any ideas as to how to break down the right side of the inequality?
 
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  • #2
sinbad30 said:

Homework Statement



Applying the definition of a limit to show that

lim ((x^3 * y(y-1) ) / (x^2 + (y-1)^2) = 0 as (x,y) approaches (0,1)



The Attempt at a Solution



|x| = sqrt(x^2) <= sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2))
|y-1|=sqrt((y-1)^2)<= sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2))
|y|<= |y-1| + 1 via the triangle inequality

Let e>0. We want to find d>0 such that

0 < sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)) < d then (|x|^3 |y| |y-1|)/ (x^2 + (y-1)^2) < e

So

(|x|^3 |y| |y-1|)/ (x^2 + (y-1)^2) <=
[(sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)))^3 * sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)) * (sqrt((x^2 + (y-1)^2)) + 1) ] / (x^2 + (y-1)^2)

Any ideas as to how to break down the right side of the inequality?
It's helpful to recognize that ##r = \sqrt{x^2 + (y-1)^2}## is the distance of the point (x,y) from the point (0,1). In terms of r, the righthand side is ##\frac{r^4(r+1)}{r^2} = r^2(r+1)##. Can you take it from there?
 

1. What is the definition of a limit?

The definition of a limit is the value that a function approaches as the input approaches a certain value.

2. How do you use the definition of a limit to evaluate a limit?

To evaluate a limit using the definition, you must determine the value that the function approaches as the input approaches the given value. This can be done by plugging in values that are close to the given value and observing the resulting output. The limit is then the value that the output approaches as the input gets closer and closer to the given value.

3. What is the purpose of using the definition of a limit?

The definition of a limit allows us to determine the behavior of a function at a specific point. It helps us understand how the function behaves as the input approaches a certain value, even if the function is undefined at that specific point. This allows us to make predictions and analyze the behavior of functions in various situations.

4. Can the definition of a limit be used for all functions?

Yes, the definition of a limit can be used for all functions. However, it may not always yield a numerical value, as some functions may approach different values from the left and right sides of the input. In these cases, the limit does not exist.

5. Are there any shortcuts for evaluating limits without using the definition?

Yes, there are various methods for evaluating limits without using the definition, such as algebraic manipulation, graphing, or using known limit rules. These methods can be more efficient and accurate in certain situations, but the definition of a limit is still the most fundamental and reliable way to evaluate limits.

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