Help needed with a specific epsilon-delta limit proof

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the limit of the function 1/(x-2)^3 as x approaches 2, specifically that it approaches negative infinity. Participants are exploring the epsilon-delta definition of limits in the context of infinite limits.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply the epsilon-delta definition to establish the limit, with one participant expressing confusion over the manipulation of inequalities and the meaning of the variable M. Others are questioning the clarity of the steps taken and the implications of a negative delta.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the steps involved in the proof and the definitions being used. There is a recognition of the need for clearer explanations and guidance through the reasoning process.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the requirement that M be a negative number, which raises questions about the implications for delta. Participants are also discussing the general approach to proving limits involving infinity.

sergey90
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Homework Statement



limit[1/(x-2)^3]=-inf as x->2

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


2-delta<x<2 1/(x-2)^3 < M
-delta<x-2<0 (x-2)^3>1/M
(-delta)^3<(x-2)^3<0

=>(-delta)^3=1/M=>-delta=croot(1/M)=>delta=-croot(1/M) ...huh? how could delta be negative?
 
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I have no idea what you just did.

What are these three equations?? What is M??
 
its the epsilon delta proof for infinite limits. Its just how they are proved generally. M is any negative number
 
I still have no idea what you did, sorry. I can see delta's and M's and stuff, but I have no idea what you're doing.

Can you write in words what you're doing between every step? Write what you want to prove. Just write some text to guide the reader.

Also, if M is negative, then [itex]-\sqrt[3]{1/M}[/itex] is positive...
 
sergey90 said:

Homework Statement



limit[1/(x-2)^3]=-inf as x->2

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


2-delta<x<2 1/(x-2)^3 < M
-delta<x-2<0 (x-2)^3>1/M
(-delta)^3<(x-2)^3<0

=>(-delta)^3=1/M=>-delta=croot(1/M)=>delta=-croot(1/M) ...huh? how could delta be negative?

You want to prove :

[itex]lim_{x→2} \frac{1}{(x-2)^3} = -∞[/itex]

So you want to use this statement :

[itex]\forall[/itex]M>0, [itex]\exists[/itex]δ>0 | 0 < |x-2| < δ [itex]\Rightarrow[/itex] f(x) < M

Start with f(x) < M and massage it to find a suitable δ.
 

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