Delta Epsilon Limits Proving: a+L and a*L

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving limits using the delta-epsilon definition, specifically focusing on the limits of the expressions \(x + f(x)\) and \(x \cdot f(x)\) as \(x\) approaches \(a\), given that \(\lim f(x) = L\) as \(x\) approaches \(a\). Participants are tasked with proving these limits without assuming the limit of a sum is the sum of the limits.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the structure of the proof for the first limit, questioning the substitution of \(L\) for \(f(x)\) and exploring the implications of the delta-epsilon definition. There is also a focus on how to appropriately choose \(\epsilon\) values to facilitate the proof. The second limit is introduced, with one participant expressing a desire for guidance on applying similar reasoning.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants engaging in clarifying questions and exploring the reasoning behind specific choices in the proof process. While some guidance has been provided regarding the first limit, the second limit remains open for exploration, with encouragement for participants to attempt it independently.

Contextual Notes

Participants are reminded that the proofs must adhere to the delta-epsilon definition of limits, and there is an emphasis on not assuming properties of limits that are not explicitly stated in the problem. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to understand the nuances of limit proofs in calculus.

Shelby
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Homework Statement



Given that lim f(x)=L as x approaches a , prove that lim (x+f(x))=a+L as x approaches ahttps://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/9630. Your proof cannot assume that the limit of a sum of two functions is the sum of their individual limits. You must use the delta-epsilon definition of limit in your proof.
and
Given that lim f(x)=L as x approaches a , prove that lim x*f(x)=aL as x approaches a

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The Attempt at a Solution


attempt is in the attatchment
 

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Next, the negative must be distributed to the “a” and to the “L” of (a + L) and an L must be substituted for f(x) because it is given that the \lim_{x \rightarrow a} f(x) = L
|x + L - a - L|...
That part is wrong, you cannot sub L for f(x) like that, it's not correct.

Now, back at the start, the problem gives that:
\lim_{x \rightarrow a} f(x) = L, and you must use this to prove: \lim_{x \rightarrow a} [x + f(x) ] = a + L
\lim_{x \rightarrow a} f(x) = L means that, for any arbitrary small \epsilon, there exists a \delta, such that:
0 < |x - a| < \delta \Rightarrow |f(x) - L| < \epsilonWhat we should prove is:
For any arbitrary small \epsilon_1, there exists a \delta_1, such that:
0 < |x - a| < \delta_1 \Rightarrow |[x + f(x)] - [a + L]| < \epsilon_1

We will deal with this part:
|[x + f(x)] - [a + L]| = |(x - a) + [f(x) - L]| < |x - a| + |f(x) - L|Now we choose, \epsilon = \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}.

Now, there should exists a \delta, such that: 0 < |x - a| < \delta \Rightarrow |f(x) - L| < \epsilon = \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}
Choose \delta_1, so that: \delta_1 = \mbox{min} \left( \delta, \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} \right)

\delta_1 = \mbox{min} \left( \delta, \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} \right) \Rightarrow \delta_1 \leq \delta, so we have:
0 < |x - a| < \delta_1 \leq \delta \Rightarrow |f(x) - L| < \epsilon = \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}

\delta_1 = \mbox{min} \left( \delta, \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} \right) \Rightarrow \delta_1 \leq \frac{\epsilon}{2}Now, if we have:
0 < |x - a| < \delta_1 \Rightarrow |[x + f(x)] - [a + L]| < |x - a| + |f(x) - L| < \delta_1 + \epsilon < \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} + \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} = \epsilon_1, so:
\lim_{x \rightarrow a} [x + f(x) ] = a + L (Q.E.D)

Is there any where unclear?
Can you do the same to part II? :)
 
Last edited:
Thank you, I do have one question

Why did you choose to divide epsilon 1 by 2?
 
because eventually you want to sum up two of them.. and 1/2 +1/2 =1 gives you just one epsilon... and this matches the target you want to reach. that's all
 
Shelby said:
Why did you choose to divide epsilon 1 by 2?
Since you want to prove that:
|[x + f(x)] - [a + L]| = |(x - a) + [f(x) - L]| < |x - a| + |f(x) - L| < \epsilon_1, i.e, the sum of |x - a|, and |f(x) - L|, so it's natural to choose the sum of \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}, and \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}, as \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} + \frac{\epsilon_1}{2} = \epsilon_1.
Then assign \delta, \ \delta_1 , \ \epsilon wisely, so that: |x - a| < \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}, and |f(x) - L| < \frac{\epsilon_1}{2}
 
I think I understand the process shown for the above proof but if someone could provide the second part it would improve my understanding. Given that lim f(x)=L as x approaches a , prove that lim x*f(x)=aL as x approaches a using the delta epsilon definition of a limit. This would be much appreciated. Thanks.
 
just try it yourselves! Use the method and I'm confident it will work out!
 

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