MHB Horizontal Asymptote of Inverse Tangent Function

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The discussion centers on determining the horizontal asymptote of the function f(x) = (x/2) + tan^(-1)(1/x). It is clarified that simply noting that the limit of (x/2) approaches infinity is insufficient to conclude the absence of a horizontal line. The finite nature of the tan^(-1) term must also be established to avoid an indeterminate form. The user acknowledges the need for further analysis regarding oblique asymptotes. Understanding these limits is crucial for accurately graphing the function.
Petrus
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Hello MHB,
I got one question, I am currently working with an old exam and I am suposed to draw it with vertican/horizontal lines (and those that are oblique).
$$f(x)=\frac{x}{2}+\tan^{-1}(\frac{1}{x})$$
for the horizontel line
$$\lim_{x->\infty^{\pm}}\frac{x}{2}+\tan^{-1}(\frac{x}{2})$$
Is it enough just to see that $$\lim_{x->\infty^{\pm}}\frac{x}{2} = \pm \infty$$ and say there is no horizontel line?
So I have to check oblique line

Regards,
$$|\pi\rangle$$
 
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Re: Trigometri,limit

Petrus said:
Hello MHB,
I got one question, I am currently working with an old exam and I am suposed to draw it with vertican/horizontal lines (and those that are oblique).
$$f(x)=\frac{x}{2}+\tan^{-1}(\frac{1}{x})$$
for the horizontel line
$$\lim_{x->\infty^{\pm}}\frac{x}{2}+\tan^{-1}(\frac{x}{2})$$
Is it enough just to see that $$\lim_{x->\infty^{\pm}}\frac{x}{2} = \pm \infty$$ and say there is no horizontel line?

No, it's not. You must also show that the $\tan^{-1}$ term is finite (which it is). Otherwise, you might get an $\infty- \infty$ situation that requires more analysis.

So I have to check oblique line

Regards,
$$|\pi\rangle$$
 
Re: Trigometri,limit

Ackbach said:
No, it's not. You must also show that the $\tan^{-1}$ term is finite (which it is). Otherwise, you might get an $\infty- \infty$ situation that requires more analysis.
Thanks for the fast responed!:) Now I know that I should not try think like that!:)

Regards,
$$|\pi\rangle$$
 

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