Limit (sinx)^2/x^2 answer check please

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating the limit of the expression (sin(x))^2/x^2 as x approaches infinity. Participants are exploring the behavior of the sine function and its implications for the limit.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to justify their reasoning by referencing the bounded nature of the sine function, while others introduce the squeeze theorem and the comparison theorem as methods for evaluating the limit. Questions arise regarding the understanding of the squeeze theorem and its application.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various interpretations of the limit, with some participants providing guidance on the use of the squeeze theorem and the comparison theorem. There is acknowledgment of differing levels of understanding regarding these concepts, but no explicit consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original poster is a Calculus II student, which may influence their familiarity with certain theorems and concepts. There is also mention of imposed homework rules regarding the use of specific methods.

synergix
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Homework Statement


Limit sin2x/x2
x->infinity

The Attempt at a Solution



0 because sin will never go above 1 or below -1 and x2 will approach infinity

am I right??
 
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Right. Formally, you conclude the limit is 0 from the squeeze theorem.
 
Thanks. But I never understood the squeeze theorem it was never explained to me very well.
 
You are saying 0<=sin(x)^2/x^2<=1/x^2 (sin(x) can be between -1 and 1 but 0<=sin(x)^2<=1 since it's squared). Since the two outside limits are zero, lim sin(x)^2/x^2 must also be zero. It's 'squeezed' between the two outside limits.
 
synergix said:

Homework Statement


Limit sin2x/x2
x->infinity

The Attempt at a Solution



0 because sin will never go above 1 or below -1 and x2 will approach infinity

am I right??

Personally, I start by using the comparison theorem for these types of limits/integrals. This helps me figure out whether it will converge or diverge and also gives me the limit.

sin(x) is always going to be less than or equal to 1 and greater than or equal to -1. Same goes for cos(x).

sec(x) or csc(x) will always be greater than or equal to one.

So, consider:

lim sin^2 (x)/x^2 < lim 1/x^2
x->infinity x->infinity

limit 1/x^2
x->infinity

limit 0
x->infinity

So, sin^2(x)/x^2 converges and its limit is 0.

*note* I'm a Calc II Student. *note*
 
Or you refer to the standard limit \lim_{x\to\infty}\frac{\sin x}{x}=0 and use the product rule. Of course this 'standard limit' can be proved with the squeezing theorem, so if you're not allowed to use it (as 'standard') you might as well follow Dick.
 

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