Limit of a multivariable function

Join the discussion
Ask a follow-up here, or get your own question answered by working scientists, mathematicians and engineers — people, not an autocomplete.
Real named experts · corrections over time · the nuance an AI answer skips
6 replies · 2K views
hnnhcmmngs
Messages
19
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



If possible, calculate the following limit:
[itex]\lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} {\frac{2x^2 + 3y^2}{5xy}}[/itex]

Homework Equations



N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I tried using both parametric and polar equations to find the limit, but neither worked. Setting either x or y equal to zero also won't work because of the denominator. What method should I use to solve this?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Like @scottdave said...
scottdave said:
The way that PhysicsForums works for homework problems: you provide what you have attempted, then we will guide you to a solution.

A technique that sometimes works is to take limits along various paths, such as along either axis or along a straight line through the origin or along various curves that pass through the origin. Finding the limit along various paths isn't enough to establish that a limit exists, but if you get different results along different paths, then you can say that the limit doesn't exist.

The fact that x and y occur to the same powers in both numerator and denominator makes things relatively easy in this problem.
 
Somewhat-strangely, it is usually easier to show that the limit does not exist than to show it existr -- and find the limit.Specially -so in 2D or higher.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: scottdave