Differantiation proof question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a proof involving the differentiability of a function f(x) on the interval (a, +infinity) and the behavior of its limit as x approaches infinity. The original poster questions whether the expression lim inf |f'(x)|=0 must hold true given that lim [f(x)]/x = 0 as x approaches +infinity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster presents an approach involving limits and the Mean Value Theorem (MVT) to explore the relationship between f(x) and its derivative. Other participants question the applicability of L'Hospital's rule and express confusion regarding the original poster's logic and solution.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods and questioning the validity of the approaches presented. Some participants are seeking clarification on the original poster's reasoning, while others are considering alternative methods like L'Hospital's rule.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need for a disproving example if the expression lim inf |f'(x)|=0 does not hold true. Additionally, there is uncertainty regarding the conditions under which L'Hospital's rule can be applied in this context.

transgalactic
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there is a function f(x) which is differentiable on (a,+infinity)
suppose lim [f(x)]/x =0 as x->+infinity
prove that lim inf |f'(x)|=0 as x->+infinity ?

does this expression lim inf f'(x)=0 has to be true
if not
present a disproving example

?

i got this solution :
First consider [itex]\lim_{m\to\infty}\frac{f(2m)}{m}[/itex], let [itex]2m=x[/itex] and this limit becomes [itex]2\lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{f(x)}{x}=0[/itex]. So [itex]\lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{f(2x)}{x}[/itex] exists and equals [itex]0[/itex]. So [itex]\lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{f(x)}{x}=0\implies \lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{f(2x)-f(x)}{x}=\lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{f(2x)-f(x)}{2x-x}=0[/itex]. So now consider the interval [itex][x,2x][/itex] and apply the MVT letting x approach infinity.

I tried to follow your logic.
and i got a few question regarding it??
http://img82.imageshack.us/my.php?image=14440292jz6.gif
 
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L'Hospital rule?
 
what about it?
 
I thought you could use L'Hospital here... using that
you get
lim .. f'(x)/1 = 0
but f(x)/x may not be in the form of inf/inf etc.

I couldn't understand the solution.
 
Last edited:

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