The discussion revolves around finding the limit of a piecewise function defined as f(x) = -2 when x < 1, f(x) = 3 when x = 1, and f(x) = x - 3 when x > 1. Participants are exploring the limits as x approaches 1 from both the left and right sides, as well as the limit at x = 1 itself.
The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on understanding limits without giving direct answers. There is an exploration of different interpretations regarding the limit's existence and the significance of the function's value at the point of interest.
Participants express confusion about how the piecewise definition affects the limit, particularly the value of the function at x = 1. There is an emphasis on understanding the concept of limits rather than simply obtaining a numerical answer.
All i need to know is what my limit is at x=1 or if the limit even exists.axmls said:You're correct, but perhaps you should go back and read about what it means for a limit to equal a value. Does it matter what happens to the function at the point you're approaching?
Which you will learn if you follow axmls's suggestion.AllanW said:All i need to know is what my limit is at x=1 or if the limit even exists.
The way things work here at PF is that we help you arrive at an answer, but we won't just give it to you.axmls said:perhaps you should go back and read about what it means for a limit to equal a value. Does it matter what happens to the function at the point you're approaching?
Okay, would i be correct if i said the limit for x at 1 would be -2?Mark44 said:Which you will learn if you follow axmls's suggestion.
The way things work here at PF is that we help you arrive at an answer, but we won't just give it to you.
Yes. Do you understand why?AllanW said:Okay, would i be correct if i said the limit for x at 1 would be -2?
I believe it because the limits approaching 1 from the left and right side is -2, what i don't understand is if and where the 'f(x)=3 when x=1' comes into playMark44 said:Yes. Do you understand why?
What does your book have for the definition of the limit of a function at some number?AllanW said:I believe it because the limits approaching 1 from the left and right side is -2, what i don't understand is if and where the 'f(x)=3 when x=1' comes into play