Deriving the Limit Definition of |x| Using Symbolic Methods

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The discussion confirms the correct symbolic method for differentiating the function f(x) = x|x| using the limit definition. The derivative is calculated as f'(x) = lim(h → 0) [(x + h)|(x + h)| - x|x|]/h, leading to the conclusion that f'(x) = 2|x|. The analysis includes three cases: x > 0, x < 0, and x = 0, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the function's behavior across its domain.

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Is this the correct symbolic method to differentiate this formula using the limit definition?

[tex]f(x) = x|x|[/tex]

[tex]f'(x) = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \frac{(x + h)|(x + h)| - x|x|}{h}[/tex]

[tex]f'(x) = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \frac{(x + h)^2 - x^2}{h} = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \frac{x^2 + 2hx + h^2 - x^2}{h} = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} \frac{2hx + h^2}{h} = \lim_{h \rightarrow 0} 2x + h[/tex]
[tex]\boxed{f'(x) = 2|x|}[/tex]

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3 cases, x>0, x<0 and x=0.
 

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