Is it possible to let limit multiplication rule not be exist?

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    Limit Multiplication
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the conditions under which the limit multiplication rule holds, specifically whether there are scenarios where lim f(x)g(x) ≠ lim f(x) * lim g(x). Participants explore the implications of limits approaching real numbers versus infinity.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that the limit multiplication rule is generally true under certain conditions, specifically when both limits exist and equal real numbers.
  • Others challenge this assertion, noting that the rule does not hold if the limits approach infinity, providing examples to illustrate this point.
  • A participant acknowledges a misunderstanding regarding the conditions under which the limits are evaluated, suggesting that clarity in mathematical statements is crucial.
  • One participant expresses gratitude to others for their contributions to the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding the universality of the limit multiplication rule, with some participants believing it holds under specific conditions while others argue that it can fail, particularly when limits approach infinity.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the need for precise definitions of the limits involved and the conditions under which the multiplication rule is applied. The discussion highlights the importance of specifying whether limits are approaching real numbers or infinity.

rfrederic
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We have known that:
lim f(x)g(x) = lim f(x) * lim g(x)

Could any conditions or limitations make: lim f(x)g(x) ≠ lim f(x) * lim g(x)?
 
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Writing out the proof really quickly, I don't see what kind of limitation or conditions can make this not true. Perhaps if you proved it, you would see why this is always true?

Edit: Based on micro post, I did the terrible mistake of assuming you meant that the x approached the same a and both limits exist.
 
Last edited:
rfrederic said:
We have known that:
lim f(x)g(x) = lim f(x) * lim g(x)

No, this is not known. And this is not even true. You need to be very careful with statements like this. The correct statement is that

[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow a} f(x)g(x)=\lim_{x\rightarrow a} f(x) \lim_{x\rightarrow a} g(x)[/tex]

if both limits [itex]\lim_{x\rightarrow a} f(x)[/itex]and [itex]\lim_{x\rightarrow a} g(x)[/itex] exist and equal a real number.

If we allow the limits to become infinite, then the rule does not hold anymore. For example, it is not true that

[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 0} \frac{x^2}{x^2}=\lim_{x\rightarrow 0} x^2 \lim_{x\rightarrow 0}\frac{1}{x^2}[/tex]

since the limit [itex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 0}\frac{1}{x^2}[/itex] is not a real number (but rather [itex]+\infty[/itex]).

You need to be very careful in mathematics to always give the exact statements and conditions in which something holds.
 
Big Thanks to micromass and MarneMath, both of you bestead me a lot.
 

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