Epsilon-delta proof of one sided infinite limit.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the limit \(\lim_{x\rightarrow 1^+}\frac{1}{(x-1)(x-2)}=-∞\) using an epsilon-delta approach. The subject area is calculus, specifically focusing on limits and proofs involving infinites.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to establish a relationship between \(\delta\) and \(N\) to prove the limit but encounters difficulties in selecting appropriate values for \(\delta\). Some participants suggest considering the behavior of the function as \(x\) approaches 2 and choosing \(\delta\) accordingly.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing hints and suggestions regarding the selection of \(\delta\). There is no explicit consensus yet, but guidance has been offered to help navigate the proof.

Contextual Notes

Participants are exploring the implications of choosing \(\delta\) in relation to the limit and the constraints imposed by the function's behavior near the critical points.

reinloch
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Homework Statement


proof this limit:
[itex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 1^+}\frac{1}{(x-1)(x-2)}=-∞[/itex]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So for every [itex]N < 0[/itex], I need to find a [itex]\delta > 0[/itex] such that
[itex]0 < x - 1 < \delta \Rightarrow \frac{1}{(x-1)(x-2)} < N[/itex]

Assuming [itex]0 < x - 1 < 1[/itex], I get [itex]-1 < x - 2 < 0[/itex], and [itex]-\frac{1}{x-2}>1[/itex].

Assuming [itex]0 < x - 1 < -\frac{1}{N}[/itex], I get [itex]-(x-1) > \frac{1}{N}[/itex], [itex]-\frac{1}{x-1} < N[/itex], and [itex]\left(-\frac{1}{x-1}\right)\left(-\frac{1}{x-2}\right) < N\left(-\frac{1}{x-2}\right)[/itex], but then I got stuck.
 
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welcome to pf!

hi reinloch! welcome to pf! :smile:
reinloch said:
[itex]\left(-\frac{1}{x-1}\right)\left(-\frac{1}{x-2}\right) < N\left(-\frac{1}{x-2}\right)[/itex]

the trick is to choose δ so that 1/(x - 2) is less than a fixed number :wink:
 
Thanks. I am stuck with the right choice for [itex]\delta[/itex]. I choose 1 and [itex]-\frac{1}{N}[/itex], and it didn't seem to work.
 
choose δ so that x doesn't get too close to 2 :wink:
 

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