Is the Value of c the Same for Limit Existence and Continuity at x = 1?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the limit of a function and its continuity at a specific point, particularly focusing on the value of c in the expression lim x->1 [f(x) + c g(x)]. Participants are examining whether the value of c that ensures the limit exists is the same as that which guarantees continuity at x = 1.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants assert that the values of c for limit existence and continuity might be the same, while others question this assumption, suggesting that the criteria for continuity involve more than just the limit existing.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of continuity and limits. Some have provided insights into the criteria for continuity, while others are analyzing specific values of f(1) and g(1) to understand their implications on the continuity of the function.

Contextual Notes

Participants are referencing a specific graph and discussing piecewise discontinuities, which may influence their reasoning about the values of c. There is also mention of specific values for f(1) and g(1) that could affect the continuity analysis.

BifSlamkovich
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Homework Statement


With reference to this graph:
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/deletemev.jpg/

Is the value of c that makes lim x->1 [f(x) + c g(x)] exist equal to the same value of c that makes f(x) + c g(x) continuous at x = 1?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



They're the same, right, because the value of c that makes the lim x->1 of f(x) + cg(x) exist is the same as the value of c that makes f(x) + cg(x) continuous at x=1? Or could I be wrong??
 
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Yes, it is a basic theorem of limits that [itex]\lim_{x\to a}(f(x)+ cg(x))= \lim_{x\to a}f(x)+ c\left(\lim_{x\to a} g(x)\right)[/itex].
 
HallsofIvy said:
Yes, it is a basic theorem of limits that [itex]\lim_{x\to a}(f(x)+ cg(x))= \lim_{x\to a}f(x)+ c\left(\lim_{x\to a} g(x)\right)[/itex].


I'm referring to the continuity of a certain function, not the applicability of limits to an expression.
 
BifSlamkovich said:

Homework Statement


With reference to this graph:
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/41/deletemev.jpg/

Is the value of c that makes lim x->1 [f(x) + c g(x)] exist equal to the same value of c that makes f(x) + c g(x) continuous at x = 1?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



They're the same, right, because the value of c that makes the lim x->1 of f(x) + cg(x) exist is the same as the value of c that makes f(x) + cg(x) continuous at x=1? Or could I be wrong??
Look again. What is f(1) + c g(1) ? I'm not saying it's Yes, or No, just that it doesn't necessarily follow.
 
SammyS said:
Look again. What is f(1) + c g(1) ? I'm not saying it's Yes, or No, just that it doesn't necessarily follow.

f(1) + cg(1) from the left side has to equal f(1) + cg(1) from the right side in order for the lim x-> 1 to exist, i.e., an appropriate value of c has to be determined. But idk if it's the very same value that makes the function, f(1) + cg(1), continuous at x=1, because continuity has 3 criteria:
1. the function is defined at x=1, which I think it is
2. lim x-> 1 of f(1)+cg(1) exists, which I think it does because the piecewise discontinuities are filled and unfilled
3.lim x-> 1 f(1) + cg(1) = f(1) + cg(1), which seems to be the case because there is no removable discontinuity.

So I would be inclined to think that the function f(x) + cg(x) is indeed continuous at x=1, but I could be wrong.
 
BifSlamkovich said:
f(1) + cg(1) from the left side has to equal f(1) + cg(1) from the right side in order for the lim x-> 1 to exist, i.e., an appropriate value of c has to be determined. But idk if it's the very same value that makes the function, f(1) + cg(1), continuous at x=1, because continuity has 3 criteria:
1. the function is defined at x=1, which I think it is
2. lim x-> 1 of f(1)+cg(1) exists, which I think it does because the piecewise discontinuities are filled and unfilled
3.lim x-> 1 f(1) + cg(1) = f(1) + cg(1), which seems to be the case because there is no removable discontinuity.

So I would be inclined to think that the function f(x) + cg(x) is indeed continuous at x=1, but I could be wrong.
It looks to me as if [itex]\lim_{x\,\to\,1}(f(x) + c\,g(x))=2[/itex] if c = 2. Otherwise, f(x) + cg(x) is not continuous.

However, f(1) = 4, and g(1) = 0, so no matter what value you use for c, f(1) + cg(1) = 4.
 

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