# Continuity Proof

1. Jun 9, 2008

### tvguide123

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Suppose that "f" satisfies "f(x+y)=f(x)+f(y)", and that "f" is continuous at 0. Prove that "f" is continuous at a for all a.

2. Relevant equations
In class we were given 3 main ways to solve continuity proofs.

A function "f" is continuous at x=a if:

a.)
Limit of f(x) as x->a = f(a), (a can be all real numbers)

b.)
Limit of f(a+h) as h->0 = f(a), (Let x=a+h)

c.)
(delta-epsilon proof)
For all epsilon greater than 0, there exists some delta greater than 0, such that for all x, if |x-a|< delta then |f(x)-f(a)|< epsilon.

3. The attempt at a solution

So far, by working with my teacher I was able to get this much as being correct:

Theres not enough information for a delta-epsilon proof so

[
Were told that f(x+y)=f(x)+f(y), for all x,y belonging to real numbers then
In partiality:
f(0+0)=f(0)+f(0)
f(0)=2f(0)
Only way this can be possible is if f(0)=0
hence f(0)=0

Now consider:

Limit of f(a+h)-f(a) as h->0 is equal to 0.
]

Im not as to what i should do now and what the second part that my teacher wants me to consider will prove.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

2. Jun 9, 2008

### CompuChip

Use the information given. You can rewrite f(a + h) - f(a) to reduce the problem around a to a problem around zero.

3. Jun 9, 2008

### tvguide123

How can I reduce the problem to be around zero?
Also what does this prove?

4. Jun 10, 2008

### CompuChip

OK, firstly: do you see what $$\lim_{h \to 0} f(a + h) - f(a) = 0$$ is good for?

Then, note that you have been given that f is continuous at zero and you want to prove continuity at some arbitrary a, about which you don't know anything. So you can try to use the properties you have to make the problem of continuity at a into a problem of continuity at 0, because you have more information of f around 0 than around a.

5. Jun 10, 2008

### HallsofIvy

Staff Emeritus
You have to use the fact that f(x+ y)= f(x)+ f(y). So f(a+ h)= ?