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

  • Context: MHB 
  • Thread starter Thread starter MarkFL
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Definition Limit
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving the limit of the function -3x + 1 as x approaches 2, specifically demonstrating that lim (-3x + 1) = -5. The epsilon-delta definition of a limit is utilized, where for any given ε > 0, a corresponding δ is established. The proof shows that by setting δ = ε/3, the condition |(-3x + 1) + 5| < ε is satisfied whenever 0 < |x - 2| < δ. This rigorous approach confirms the limit using the epsilon-delta framework.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of limits in calculus
  • Familiarity with epsilon-delta definitions
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
  • Knowledge of function behavior near specific points
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the epsilon-delta definition of limits in greater detail
  • Practice additional epsilon-delta proofs for various functions
  • Explore continuity and differentiability concepts in calculus
  • Learn about the implications of limits in real analysis
USEFUL FOR

Students of calculus, educators teaching limit concepts, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of mathematical proofs in analysis.

MarkFL
Gold Member
MHB
Messages
13,284
Reaction score
12
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.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hello Bill:

We are given to prove:

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

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:

$$|-3x+1+5|=|-3x+6|=3|x-2|$$

Thus, to make:

$$3|x-2|<\epsilon$$

we need only make:

$$0<|x-2|<\frac{\epsilon}{3}$$

We may then choose:

$$\delta=\frac{\epsilon}{3}$$

Verification:

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

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

Similar threads

  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K