Finding domain for when composite function is continuous

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the continuity of the function ##h(x) = \ln{x^2}## and identifying its domain. Participants are exploring the conditions under which the natural logarithm is defined and continuous.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the conditions for continuity of the logarithmic function and the implications of the argument ##x^2## being positive. There is an exploration of whether ##x \neq 0## is sufficient to establish continuity, and some are considering how to formally prove this.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the continuity of the function at points other than zero and have mentioned methods for proving continuity, such as differentiability. There is also a note on the correct notation for the logarithmic function, indicating a focus on precision in mathematical expression.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the definitions and properties of logarithmic functions, particularly in relation to their domains and continuity. There is an emphasis on the importance of notation in mathematical discussions.

member 731016
Homework Statement
Please see below
Relevant Equations
Please see below
I am trying to find where ##h(x) =In{x^2}## is continuous on it's entire domain.

My reasoning is since natural log is defined for ##x > 0##, then the argument ##x^2## should be positive, ##x^2 > 0##, we can see without solving this equation that ##x ≠ 0## for this equation to be true, however, does someone please know how we could prove this by solving that equation for x?

My working is
##x > 0## (Taking square root of both sides of the equation)

Many thanks!
 
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ChiralSuperfields said:
Homework Statement: Please see below
Relevant Equations: Please see below

I am trying to find where ##h(x) =In{x^2}## is continuous on it's entire domain.

My reasoning is since natural log is defined for ##x > 0##, then the argument ##x^2## should be positive, ##x^2 > 0##, we can see without solving this equation that ##x ≠ 0## for this equation to be true, however, does someone please know how we could prove this by solving that equation for x?

My working is
##x > 0## (Taking square root of both sides of the equation)

Many thanks!
It is neither defined nor continuous at ##x=0.## It is continuous everywhere else. What do you use to prove continuity? E.g. it is differentiable at ##x\neq 0## and therewith continuous. Or you use a definition for continuity. There are a few, so which one do you use?
 
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ChiralSuperfields said:
I am trying to find where ##h(x) =In{x^2}## is continuous on it's entire domain.
There is no "##In()## function; i.e., starting with uppercase i. It's ##\ln()##, with a lowercase letter l (ell), short for logarithmus naturalis.
 
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Note that \ln x^2 = 2\ln |x|.
 
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