Limit of sin(x)cos(x)/x as x approaches 0?

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SUMMARY

The limit of sin(x)cos(x)/x as x approaches 0 is 1. This conclusion is derived using the identity sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x) and the known limit lim x->0 sin(x)/x = 1. By rewriting sin(x)cos(x) as sin(2x)/2, the limit can be evaluated as lim u->0 sin(u)/u, which also equals 1. Thus, the limit is confirmed to be 1 through multiple approaches.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities, specifically sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x)
  • Knowledge of limits in calculus, particularly lim x->0 sin(x)/x = 1
  • Familiarity with substitution methods in limit evaluation
  • Basic understanding of continuity and behavior of trigonometric functions near zero
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  • Study the derivation and applications of the limit lim x->0 sin(x)/x
  • Explore more trigonometric identities and their implications in calculus
  • Learn about advanced limit techniques, including L'Hôpital's Rule
  • Investigate the behavior of other trigonometric functions as they approach zero
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on limits and trigonometric functions, as well as educators looking for clear explanations of limit evaluations.

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Homework Statement


lim x->0 sinxcosx/x


Homework Equations


lim x->0 sinx/x = 1



The Attempt at a Solution


Pretty sure I need to use above property but I believe cosx/x is undef.
 
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jog511 said:

Homework Statement


lim x->0 sinxcosx/x


Homework Equations


lim x->0 sinx/x = 1



The Attempt at a Solution


Pretty sure I need to use above property but I believe cosx/x is undef.

Recall the identity \sin(2x) = 2\sin x \cos x.
 
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Or write it as$$
\frac {\sin x} x \cdot \cos x$$
 
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limx->o sinx/x * limx->0 cosx = 1*1 =1
 
Correct.
 
That's the simplest way to do it but using pasmith's suggestion, since sin(2x)= 2sin(x)cos(x), sin(x)cos(x)= sin(2x)/x so that sin(x)cos(x)/x= sin(2x)/2x. Now let u= 2x. As x goes to 0, so does u= 2x and we have
\lim_{x\to 0} \frac{sin(x)cos(x)}{x}= \lim_{u\to 0}\frac{sin(u)}{u}= 1.
 
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