How Do You Solve the Limit Using the Quotient Law?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the limit of a quotient involving rational functions as x approaches 3. The specific limit in question is (1/x - 1/3) / (x-3).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the original poster's attempt to simplify the expression by multiplying the numerator and denominator, leading to a 0/0 indeterminate form. Questions are raised about the cancellation of terms and the calculation of quotients of quotients.

Discussion Status

Some participants offer guidance on finding a common denominator for the fractions in the numerator and suggest simplifying the expression further. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, particularly regarding the handling of the limit and the algebra involved.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of confusion regarding the simplification process and the need for clarity in handling the fractions involved. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the top part of the expression.

Alice7979
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Homework Statement


lim (1/x - 1/3) / (x-3)
x->3

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to cancel the bottom (x-3) out by multiplying the top by 3/3 and x/x and then got ((3-x)/3x)/(x-3) but ended with 0/0 and the right answer is -1/9. The top part is confusing me.
 
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Alice7979 said:

Homework Statement


lim (1/x - 1/3) / (x-3)
x->3

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to cancel the bottom (x-3) out by multiplying the top by 3/3 and x/x and then got ((3-x)/3x)/(x-3) but ended with 0/0 and the right answer is -1/9. The top part is confusing me.
Combine the two fractions in the numerator, and then simplify. This problem isn't much more than an exercise in working with fractions.
 
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Like @Mark44 said, find a common denominator between ## \frac 1 x \text{ and } \frac 1 3 ##. Similar to if you were adding the fractions ## \frac 1 7 \text{ and } \frac 1 3 ##
 

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