Find the largest δ that works .

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the largest δ that satisfies the condition for a given ϵ in the context of limits, specifically related to the limit of a function as x approaches 1.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to establish a relationship between δ and ϵ through algebraic manipulation, questioning their calculations when comparing their result to the textbook answer. Some participants express disagreement with the textbook's conclusion, suggesting a potential error in the textbook.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes differing opinions on the correctness of the textbook answer versus the original poster's reasoning. Participants are exploring the implications of their findings without reaching a consensus, while also reflecting on the reliability of educational materials.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the discrepancy between their calculations and the textbook's solution, raising concerns about the accuracy of the provided educational resources.

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Find the largest δ that "works".

Homework Statement


Find the largest δ that "works" for the given ϵ:
[itex]\displaystyle \lim_{x\to1}2x = 2; ϵ = 0.1[/itex]


Homework Equations


N/A


The Attempt at a Solution


Given ϵ > 0, then:
if [itex]0 < |x - 1| < δ[/itex] then [itex]|2x - 2| < ϵ[/itex]
ϵ = 0.1, so, [itex]|2x - 2| < 0.1[/itex]
Now to establish the connection:
[itex]|2x - 2| => |2 (x - 1)| => |2||x - 1| => 2|x - 1|[/itex]
Therefore: [itex]2|x - 1| < ϵ => |x - 1| < \frac{ϵ}{2} => |x - 1| <\frac{0.1}{2} =>|x - 1| < 0.05.[/itex] The largest value that "works" for δ is 0.05 since if:
[itex]0 < |x - 1| < 0.05[/itex] then [itex]|2x - 2| < 0.1[/itex]

But, in my textbook, the answer is 2ϵ = 0.2 as the largest value that "works" for δ. So, I just wanted to know what I did wrong in my calculations as the book only shows the solution and not the work. Thanks in advance.
 
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I disagree with the textbook and I agree with you.
 


Dick said:
I disagree with the textbook and I agree with you.

I see. Thanks.

I never would have thought university textbooks ever made such errors, even though high school ones were rife with them.
 


Retribution said:
I see. Thanks.

I never would have thought university textbooks ever made such errors, even though high school ones were rife with them.

The aren't that uncommon even at the university level. The same people are writing the textbooks.
 

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