Finding the Limit by Interpreting an Expression as an Appropriate Derivative

In summary, The conversation is about solving the limit expression [1/h*ln(3+h)/(3)] by interpreting it as an appropriate derivative. The person is asking for help and clarification on the problem and the other person provides the correct form of the expression and explains how it can be solved using the difference quotient for the derivative of ln(x) at x=3.
  • #1
Loppyfoot
194
0

Homework Statement



Find Lim [ 1/h*ln(3+h)/(3)] by interpreting the expression as an appropriate derivative.
h→0

Homework Equations



I am confused on how to solve this problem for a review packet for Calc BC. I seem to have forgotten how to solve this problem and hopefully someone can give me some pointers!
 
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  • #2
Are you sure you have the problem written correctly? Something like this, maybe?
[tex]\lim_{h \rightarrow 0}\frac{ln(3 + h) - ln(3)}{h}[/tex]

What you have doesn't look like a limit expression for any derivative that I can think of.
 
  • #3
The second "3" should be inside the logarithm: ln((3+h)/3)= ln(3+h)- ln(3)

(1/h) ln((3+h)/3)= (1/h)(ln(3+h)- ln(3)) is the difference quotient for the derivative of ln(x) at x= 3.
 

1. What is the purpose of finding the limit by interpreting an expression as an appropriate derivative?

The purpose of finding the limit by interpreting an expression as an appropriate derivative is to determine the behavior of a function at a specific point. It allows us to understand how the function is changing and approaching a value at that point.

2. How do you find the limit by interpreting an expression as an appropriate derivative?

To find the limit by interpreting an expression as an appropriate derivative, you need to take the derivative of the function and then plug in the x-value of the point in question. This will give you the slope of the tangent line at that point, which can help determine the limit.

3. What is the relationship between limits and derivatives?

Limits and derivatives are closely related because derivatives are essentially the instantaneous rate of change of a function, which is determined by taking the limit as the change in x approaches 0. In other words, derivatives are a way to find the limit of a function at a specific point.

4. Can you use the limit of a function to find its derivative?

Yes, the limit of a function can be used to find its derivative. This is because the derivative at a point is equal to the limit of the function as the change in x approaches 0. So, by finding the limit of the function at that point, we can determine its derivative.

5. Are there any limitations to using the interpretation of an expression as an appropriate derivative to find a limit?

Yes, there are limitations to using this method. It can only be used when the function is continuous at the point in question, and when the limit exists. Additionally, some functions may have limits that cannot be found using derivatives, and in those cases, other methods must be used to find the limit.

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