Compute Limits with x and y

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In summary, the limits evaluated in the conversation are: 1) lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{x^3-y^3}{x^2+y^2} = 0, as shown by evaluating the limit for the special cases when x=y and when either x or y goes to zero first. 2) lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{sin(xy)}{y} = 0, as shown by using substitution and the product rule for limits, and evaluating the limit for the cases when x and y approach zero together, as well as when one approaches zero first and the other approaches zero after.
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ImAnEngineer
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Homework Statement


Compute:
1)[tex]lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{x^3-y^3}{x^2+y^2}[/tex]
2)[tex]lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{sin(xy)}{y}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


1)
[tex]lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{x^3-y^3}{x^2+y^2}[/tex]
Not sure what to do here. Either the limit doesn't exist or it equals zero. I think it equals zero because in the special case where x=y we get 0/2x²=0. Also when x=0, we get the limit of -y where y approaches zero, which is zero. Same goes for y=0. But I don't know how to prove that the limit is zero in general.

2)
[tex]lim_{(x,y)\rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{sin(xy)}{y}=lim_{z\rightarrow 0} \frac{sin(z)}{\frac{z}{x}}=lim_{z\rightarrow 0} x\frac{sin(z)}{z}=lim_{z\rightarrow 0}x lim_{z\rightarrow 0} \frac{sin(z)}{z}=0*x=0
[/tex]
Are all steps correct? I'm not sure about the substitution and using the product rule for limits.
 
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  • #2
you don't only consider the case when x and y go to zero "together", but you're basically on the right track.. there are 3 cases: 1) they both tend to zero at the same time, x=y. 2) x goes to zero first or 3) y goes to zero first. so you have axes x ,y and z and so the limit exists if there exists an epsilon > 0 then there also exists delta1 > 0 and delta2 > 0 with the property that if |x-a| < delta1 and |y-a| < delta2 then |f(x,y) - L| < epsilon .

so, take the case where x=y and evaluate the limit as a "single variable". then you can "fix" x or y, then evaluate the limit as one approaches zero first then observe what happens when other goes to zero after
 

1. What is a limit in calculus?

A limit is a fundamental concept in calculus that describes the behavior of a function at a specific point. It represents the value that a function approaches as the input variable gets closer and closer to a given value.

2. How do you compute limits with x and y?

To compute a limit with x and y, you first need to determine which variable, x or y, is approaching a specific value. Then, substitute the given value for that variable in the function and simplify the expression. The resulting value is the limit.

3. What is the difference between a one-sided limit and a two-sided limit?

A one-sided limit only considers the behavior of a function as the input variable approaches a specific value from one side. A two-sided limit takes into account the behavior of the function from both sides of the given value.

4. How do you know if a limit does not exist?

A limit does not exist if the function has different values on either side of the given value or if the function approaches different values from the left and right sides of the given value. It can also not exist if the function becomes undefined at the given value.

5. Why are limits important in calculus?

Limits are important in calculus because they allow us to understand and analyze the behavior of functions at specific points. They also help us to define and calculate derivatives and integrals, which are essential concepts in calculus and many other fields of mathematics and science.

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