Help with Functions - Linearization

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the linearization of the function f(x) = √x and the comparison with another function g defined by specific conditions. Participants are tasked with determining constants c and m, and exploring how g relates to the linearization of f at x = 1. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and function analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Post 1 introduces the function f(x) = √x and defines g with conditions involving constants c and m, seeking to find these constants.
  • Post 2 questions the definition of g, suggesting it may be g(x) = c + m(x-1) instead of g(c) = c + m(x-1), and asks about the limit in condition (iii).
  • Post 3 confirms the correction to g(x) = c + m(x-1) and states that the limit equals 0.
  • Post 4 provides a detailed limit calculation, leading to the conclusion that m = 1/2, and mentions the linearization of f at x = 1.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the form of g as g(x) = c + m(x-1) and that the limit approaches 0. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the determination of constants c and m, particularly in the context of the linearization comparison.

Contextual Notes

The discussion involves assumptions about the behavior of the functions near x = 1, and the limit calculations depend on the definitions of the functions involved. There are unresolved aspects regarding the implications of the limit and the exact relationship between g and the linearization of f.

vickon
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Let f(x) = \sqrt{x}
Assume that g is function such that
(i) g(c)= c+m(x-1)
(ii) f(1) = g(1), and
(iii) \lim_{{x}\to{1}}\frac{f(x)-g(x)}{x-1}

Answer the following questions. Show all of your work, and explain your reasoning.
(a) What are the constants c and m?
(b) How does g compare with the linearization of f at 1?

For a, I have that the constant c=1, but I'm having trouble determining the constant m. I also am not sure what is required to answer part b.
 
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vickon said:
Let f(x) = \sqrt{x}
Assume that g is function such that

(i) g(c)= c+m(x-1) sure this isn't g(x) = c + m(x-1) ?

(ii) f(1) = g(1), and

(iii) \lim_{{x}\to{1}}\frac{f(x)-g(x)}{x-1} is this limit equal to anything ?

Answer the following questions. Show all of your work, and explain your reasoning.
(a) What are the constants c and m?
(b) How does g compare with the linearization of f at 1?

For a, I have that the constant c=1, but I'm having trouble determining the constant m. I also am not sure what is required to answer part b.

clarification needed above ...
 
Yes, sorry! g(x)=c+m(x-1) and the lim=0
 
$\displaystyle \lim_{x \to 1} \dfrac{\sqrt{x} - [1+m(x-1)]}{x-1} = 0$

$\displaystyle \lim_{x \to 1} \dfrac{\sqrt{x}-1}{x-1} - \dfrac{m(x-1)}{x-1} = 0$

$\displaystyle \lim_{x \to 1} \dfrac{1}{\sqrt{x}+1} - m = 0 \implies m = \dfrac{1}{2}$linearization of f(x) at x = 1 ...

$L(1) = f(1) + f’(1) \cdot (x-1)$
 

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