Limit as x tends to infinity, without Laurent

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SUMMARY

The limit as x approaches infinity for the expression ## \lim_{x \rightarrow \infty } x( \sqrt{ x^{2} +9} -x) ## can be evaluated without using the Laurent series. The correct approach involves multiplying by the conjugate, resulting in the limit simplifying to ## \frac{9}{2} ##. This method effectively eliminates the indeterminate form and allows for straightforward calculation. The discussion emphasizes understanding the behavior of functions as x increases, particularly how dominant terms influence limits.

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Homework Statement


I want to find the following limit, ## \lim_{x \rightarrow \infty } x( \sqrt{ x^{2} +9} -x) ##, without using the Laurent series

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


I used the Laurent Series to expand the square root, giving ## x((x+\frac{9}{2x})-x)##, then giving the limit as ##\frac{9}{2}## . How would one go about this question without using the above method?
 
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limx→∞x(√ x2+9−x)
... to me that reads:$$\lim_{x\to\infty}x\sqrt{x^2-x+9}$$ ... I don't think that converges: perhaps you meant to write something different.

Mostly someone would deal with a limit like that by remembering how the functions work for the limit in question.
i.e. as x gets very big, large powers of x will come to dominate a sum.

So: $$\lim_{x\to\infty} \frac{x}{\sqrt{x^4-2x+9000}}=\lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{1}{x} = 0$$ ... which you can check on a calculator.

I find it suggestive that the 9 under the root is a square number - so if you want to be more rigorous-ish, try completing the square, look for a substitution maybe?
 
Last edited:
Skeptic. said:

Homework Statement


I want to find the following limit, ## \lim_{x \rightarrow \infty } x( \sqrt{ x^{2} +9} -x) ##, without using the Laurent series

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


I used the Laurent Series to expand the square root, giving ## x((x+\frac{9}{2x})-x)##, then giving the limit as ##\frac{9}{2}## . How would one go about this question without using the above method?

Simon Bridge said:
... to me that reads:$$\lim_{x\to\infty}x\sqrt{x^2-x+9}$$ ... I don't think that converges: perhaps you meant to write something different.
The OP has something different. I don't believe it was edited, but perhaps it was.

@Skeptic, multiply by ##\sqrt{x^2 + 9} + x## over itself, and you'll be able to take the limit.
 
Oh I see - my display is not showing the line over the square-root in post #1, and it didn't drag to quote in my reply either - but I do see it quoted in post #3.
Cheers.
 

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