Finding Limit: Stuck on Calculus Exam Problem

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around a calculus problem involving the limit of a function as x approaches π/3. Participants are exploring methods to solve the limit, discussing various approaches and techniques relevant to calculus, particularly in the context of an exam scenario.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with the problem, indicating they reached a complex expression but feel stuck and seeks advice on how to proceed.
  • Another participant suggests using L'Hopital's rule as a straightforward method to solve the limit, but notes that it may not be allowed in this context.
  • A different approach is proposed involving the use of a trigonometric identity to express tan(x - π/3) in terms of simpler functions.
  • One participant points out that recognizing the derivative of tan at π/3 could simplify the limit calculation, suggesting a method that involves applying the definition of the derivative.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to solve the limit problem. While some suggest using L'Hopital's rule, others propose alternative methods, indicating a lack of agreement on the allowed techniques.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that L'Hopital's rule may not be permitted for this problem, which affects the strategies participants are considering. The discussion reflects different levels of familiarity with calculus concepts and techniques.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for calculus exams, particularly those struggling with limit problems and seeking various methods to approach them.

Redoctober
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I i am fed up with these question. some are easy to solve , some solve themselfs along and some seem to have no answer in the far horizon like this question -.-

lim (tanx - sqrt3)/(3x-pie)
x->(pie/3)

I did it until i reached (sin^2(x) - 3cos^2(x))/(cos(x).(3x-pie).(sinx+sqrt3.cosx) where i got stuck !

Help ! .
If you have any advice about how to approach such questions please tell me or i ll be screwed in my upcoming Calculus exam :S . Thanks in advance
 
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Do you know "L'Hopital's rule"? That makes this problem easy. If not, then it would probably be best to use a trig identity: write tan(x- pi/3) in terms of trig functions of x and pi/3 separately.
 
HallsofIvy said:
Do you know "L'Hopital's rule"? That makes this problem easy. If not, then it would probably be best to use a trig identity: write tan(x- pi/3) in terms of trig functions of x and pi/3 separately.

Thanks
btw L'Hopital's rule is not allowed , I guess i ll try using tan(x-pi/3) = ( tanx - tan(pi/3))/( 1+tanxtan(pi/3))

If anyone found a solution for this problem please post it or atleast an advice :D !
 
tan(pi/3)=sqrt(3) so recognize tan'(pi/3)
[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow\pi/3}\frac{\tan(x)-\sqrt{3}}{3x-\pi}=\frac{1}{3}\lim_{x\rightarrow\pi/3}\frac{\tan(x)-\tan(\pi/3)}{x-\pi/3}=\frac{\tan'(\pi/3)}{3}[/tex]
 

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