No idea how to compute this limit

In summary, a limit in calculus is a concept that describes the behavior of a function near a particular point. To compute a limit, various methods can be used such as algebraic manipulation, graphing, substitution, and L'Hopital's rule. There is a difference between one-sided and two-sided limits, as one considers only the behavior from one direction while the other takes into account both directions. Not all limits can be computed, especially those involving indeterminate forms. However, computing limits is important in understanding the behavior and making predictions about functions, as well as solving various mathematical problems.
  • #1
Bipolarity
776
2

Homework Statement



[tex] \lim_{x→-∞}xe^{x} [/tex]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



L'Hopital's rule maybe? I solved a lot of problems today, just no idea how to get past this one. Any hints?

BiP
 
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  • #2
Write the limit as
[tex]\lim_{x→-∞} \frac{x}{e^{-x}}[/tex]
Apply L'Hopital's rule.
 
  • #3
Pranav-Arora said:
Write the limit as
[tex]\lim_{x→-∞} \frac{x}{e^{-x}}[/tex]
Apply L'Hopital's rule.

Thank you so much!

BiP
 

1. What is a limit in calculus?

A limit in calculus is a fundamental concept that describes the behavior of a function as its input approaches a certain value. It is used to understand the behavior of functions near a particular point and is an important tool for finding derivatives, determining continuity, and solving various optimization problems.

2. How do you compute a limit?

To compute a limit, you can follow several methods depending on the type of function you are working with. Some common methods include using algebraic manipulation, graphing, substitution, and L'Hopital's rule. It is important to understand the properties and rules of limits to effectively compute them.

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 approaching a specific value from one direction, either the left or the right. A two-sided limit takes into account the behavior from both directions and requires the function to approach the same value from both sides in order to exist.

4. Can all limits be computed?

No, not all limits can be computed. Some limits, particularly those involving indeterminate forms such as 0/0 or infinity/infinity, require additional techniques such as L'Hopital's rule to compute. In some cases, the limit may not exist or may be undefined.

5. Why is it important to be able to compute limits?

Computing limits is crucial in calculus and other areas of mathematics because it allows us to understand the behavior of functions and make predictions about their values. Limits are also used to find derivatives, determine continuity, and solve optimization problems, making them a fundamental concept in many mathematical applications.

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