Multivariable Limit, is my reasoning correct?

In summary, the limit of the given expression as (x,y) approaches (0,0) can be split into two limits, one of which evaluates to 0 and the other to 1/3. This does not necessarily mean that the overall limit does not exist, as the nonexistence of one limit may cancel with the other. However, in this case, since sin(y) approaches y as y approaches 0, the nonexistence of the left limit indicates that the overall limit does not exist.
  • #1
bob1182006
492
1

Homework Statement



[tex]\lim_{(x,y) \rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{x^2+sin^2 y}{2x^2+y^2}[/tex]


Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



Since I can't evaluate the limit directly and I can't see a way to get a 0 on the top in order to get 2 different limits I split up the limit into these 2:
[tex]\lim_{(x,y) \rightarrow (0,0)} \{\frac{x^2}{x^2+y^2}+\frac{sin^2}{x^2+y^2}\}=\lim_{(x,y) \rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{x^2}{2x^2+y^2}+\lim_{(x,y) \rightarrow (0,0)} \frac{sin^2 y}{2x^2+y^2}[/tex]

and I work on the one on the left.

[tex]\lim_{\substack{x=0\\y\rightarrow 0}} \frac{x^2}{2x^2+y^2}=\lim_{y \rightarrow 0} \frac{0}{y^2}=\lim_{y \rightarrow 0} 0 = 0[/tex]

[tex]\lim_{\substack{y=x\\x\rightarrow 0}} \frac{x^2}{2x^2+y^2}=\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{x^2}{3x^2}=\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{1}{3}=\frac{1}{3}\neq0[/tex]

and since the left limit doesn't exist it doesn't matter if the right limit exists since the sum of a nonexisting limit and something else won't exist either, right?
 
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  • #2
Not necessarily; the right limit might not exist, but the nonexistence might cancel between the two terms. For example, if the problem was (x^2+y^2)/(x^2+y^2), the limit is obviously 1, but the limits of x^2/(x^2+y^2) and y^2/(x^2+y^2) do not individually exist.

But in your case, when y is small, what happens to sin(y)? Just do your two examples with the full numerator.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
oo because values near 0, sin(y)=y so it would be about the same method of evaluating!

thanks alot!
 

1. What is a multivariable limit?

A multivariable limit is the value that a function approaches as the input variables approach a specific point in a multidimensional space. It is an extension of the concept of a limit in single-variable calculus.

2. How do you calculate a multivariable limit?

To calculate a multivariable limit, you need to plug in the values of the input variables into the function and see what value the function approaches as the variables get closer to the specified point. If the function approaches the same value from all directions, the limit exists. Otherwise, the limit does not exist.

3. What is the importance of understanding multivariable limits?

Understanding multivariable limits is crucial in many fields of science and engineering, such as physics, economics, and engineering. It allows us to analyze and predict the behavior of complex systems with multiple variables and make informed decisions based on this information.

4. How is the concept of continuity related to multivariable limits?

In single-variable calculus, a function is continuous at a point if the limit of the function at that point exists and is equal to the value of the function at that point. In multivariable calculus, a function is continuous at a point if the limit of the function exists and is equal to the value of the function at that point from all directions.

5. Can you provide an example of a multivariable limit?

Yes, for example, consider the function f(x,y) = (x^2 + y^2)/(x+y) as (x,y) approaches the point (1,1). By plugging in the values of x and y into the function, we get (1^2 + 1^2)/(1+1) = 1. Therefore, the limit of this function at the point (1,1) is 1.

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