How to Find the Limit of a Power Function Using Desmos?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on finding the limit of a power function using the Desmos graphing calculator. Participants emphasize the importance of evaluating limits as x approaches infinity, specifically referencing the limit $\displaystyle \lim_{x \to \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{x} \right) ^x = \mathbf{e}$. The conversation highlights the behavior of the function graph, noting that it becomes undefined for certain values of x, particularly between 0 and 2, due to division by zero and the even root of negative numbers. The Desmos tool is recommended for visualizing these limits effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of limits in calculus
  • Familiarity with the Desmos graphing calculator
  • Knowledge of power functions and their properties
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the concept of limits approaching infinity in calculus
  • Learn how to use the Desmos graphing calculator for advanced functions
  • Study the properties of exponential functions and their limits
  • Investigate the implications of undefined values in function graphs
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, educators teaching limit concepts, and anyone interested in utilizing Desmos for mathematical visualization.

karush
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karush said:
Ok all I did was DesmosNot real sure how to take limit

Why are you plugging in large negative values for x? Surely for an infinite limit you should be plugging in large positive values.

As for a hint, you should use the standard limit $\displaystyle \lim_{x \to \infty} \left( 1 + \frac{1}{x} \right) ^x = \mathbf{e} $.
 
Ok I see what you mean
But there is no graph on the positive side

also its 2 not 1
 
Last edited:
What do you mean "there is no graph on the positive side"? Of couse there is.
 
karush said:
Ok I see what you mean
But there is no graph on the positive side

also its 2 not 1
Prove It is not giving you the answer he is giving you a suggestion that you can use the limit he posted. See if there is any kind of substitution you can make to put your limit into the form he gave you.

And the graph of f(x) becomes real again for [math]x \geq 2[/math]. (Why does it "disappear?" Why does it "reappear?")

-Dan
 
actually I don't know why it does not graph $0\le x \le 2$
 
karush said:
actually I don't know why it does not graph $0\le x \le 2$

Look at the numbers. Can you divide by 0? Can you take an even root of a negative number?
 
For this problem it doesn't matter that "it does't graph" between 0 and 2!

Using the "Desmos graphing calculator" at [FONT=Verdana,Arial,Tahoma,Calibri,Geneva,sans-serif]https://www.desmos.com/calculator you can look at the graph at very large x and small values of y so get an idea of the values you need.
 

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