Help Solving Limits: x-4sqrt(x)+4/(x-4)(sqrt(x)-2)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the limit of the expression (x - 4√x + 4) / ((x - 4)(√x - 2)) as x approaches 4. Participants are exploring the behavior of the limit and the potential for factoring or rationalizing the expression.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the possibility of factoring the expression and whether the limit exists. There is an attempt to rationalize the expression, with questions about the implications of division by zero and the need for a common denominator.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes various attempts to rationalize the expression and check for common denominators. Some participants express uncertainty about their calculations, while others suggest methods to clarify the limit's existence. There is no explicit consensus on the final answer, but guidance has been offered regarding rationalization and factoring.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention potential confusion regarding the notation used in the problem and the implications of division by zero in their calculations. There is also a reference to the use of LaTeX for mathematical expressions.

alexpratt
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i know how to solve limits, but i have trouble seeing if i can factor anymore or if the limit just doesn't exist, which is the case with the next few questions

Homework Statement



1/(sqrt(x)-2) - 4/(x-4)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



this is what i have now, i don't think i can do anything else, but I am probably wrong.
And i have written that the limit doesn't exist.

x-4sqrt(x)+4/(x-4)(sqrt(x)-2)and sorry if the equation is written the wrong way or anything, with the square roots and everything!
 
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I am assuming the limit is as x approaches 4.

The limit does in fact exist.

You should try rationalizing , that is,

\frac{1}{ \sqrt{x} -2} \frac{ \sqrt{x}+2}{ \sqrt{x}+2}
 
yes, it is as x approaches 4, sorry about that.

but when i rationalize it, wouldn't i just get x-4 in the denominator which would still be division by zero?
i'll see if i can figure it out considering you said the limit exists, thank you
 
Rationalize and then add what you get to - 4/(x-4).

They have the same denominator now, right ?

Then, see if you can factor anything out from the "new" function.
 
-1/4?and just so i know in the future, how did you get the square root sign?
 
alexpratt said:
-1/4?
I didn't get that answer; you're close, though.
 
alexpratt said:
-1/4?

The answer should be 1/4 .

I am sure you just made a little sign error.

alexpratt said:
and just so i know in the future, how did you get the square root sign?

The symbols are written from Latex

https://www.physicsforums.com/misc/howtolatex.pdf
 
I keep getting -1/4

I know you guys are right though, i graphed it to make sure, not that i thought you were wrong haha.
I have no clue where I am going wrong though.

thanks for your help though
 
Show me your steps so I can point out the error.
 
  • #10
i figured it out, i was rationalizing the left side but i forgot to get a common denominator afterwards.
 

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