Limits with the precise definition of a limit

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The discussion revolves around proving limits involving functions where one approaches infinity and the other approaches a real number. It emphasizes the need to understand the precise definition of a limit, especially when dealing with unbounded functions. The participants express confusion about applying limit laws in this context, noting that a limit approaching infinity is not the same as a limit that does not exist. The conversation suggests consulting textbooks for the specific definitions and methods for handling limits involving infinity. Understanding these concepts is crucial for successfully proving the given statements.
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Homework Statement


Suppose that limit x-> a f(x)= infinity and limit x-> a g(x) = c, where c is a real number. Prove each statement.
(a) lim x-> a [f(x) + g(x)] = infinity
(b) lim x-> a [f(x)g(x)] = infinity if c > 0
(c) lim x-> a [f(x)g(x)] = negative infinity if c < 0

Homework Equations


The limit laws would seem relevant, but the f(x) limit goes to infinity.

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm completely lost on how to start this problem. How would I prove something like the limit laws using the precise definition of a limit when one of the limits don't exist?
 
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When you say that
$$\lim_{x \to a} f(x) = \infty,$$ it's not exactly the same as saying the limit doesn't exist. For example, the limit
$$\lim_{x \to 0} \sin \frac{1}{x}$$ doesn't exist, but you wouldn't say it's equal to infinity either. So what precisely does it mean when you write a limit equals infinity?
 
newschoolgg said:

Homework Statement


Suppose that limit x-> a f(x)= infinity and limit x-> a g(x) = c, where c is a real number. Prove each statement.
(a) lim x-> a [f(x) + g(x)] = infinity
(b) lim x-> a [f(x)g(x)] = infinity if c > 0
(c) lim x-> a [f(x)g(x)] = negative infinity if c < 0

Homework Equations


The limit laws would seem relevant, but the f(x) limit goes to infinity.

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm completely lost on how to start this problem. How would I prove something like the limit laws using the precise definition of a limit when one of the limits don't exist?
Your textbook should have the precise definition of a limit when the function is unbounded. It doesn't use ##\delta## and ##\epsilon## as the normal limit does, but instead uses M and ##\delta##, where M is a large number.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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