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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that if lim f(x) = l and lim f(x) = m, then l must equal m using the delta-epsilon definition of limits. The key point is the selection of delta, where the minimum of two deltas, min(d1, d2), is chosen to satisfy both conditions simultaneously. This ensures that the epsilon condition for both limits is met. The confusion arose from considering the maximum instead of the minimum, which was clarified through the explanation of the epsilon-delta proof process.

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  • Practice constructing epsilon-delta proofs for various functions
  • Explore the implications of limits in calculus, particularly continuity
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Homework Statement


Using the delta-epsilon definition of limits, prove that of lim f(x) = l and lim f(x) =m, then l=m

Homework Equations


Delta-epsilon definiition of the limit of f(x), as x approaches a:
For all e>0, there is a d s.t if for all x, |x-a|<d, then |f(x) -l|<e

The Attempt at a Solution


Suppose not. Then
(1): For all e>0, there is a d1 s.t. |f(x) - l|<e, provided |x-a|<d1 for all x
(2): For all e>0, there is a d2 s.t. |f(x) - m|<e, provided |x-a|<d2 for all x

I'm getting stuck at finding the delta that works for both of them. I see that the next step is to pick d=min(d1, d2), but I'm confused as to why this is the case

For instance, if d1=1, and d2=2, I don't see how d=1 would satisfy (2) above
 
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Given some ##\delta## that works in an epsilon-delta proof, you can always take a smaller delta, ##\delta'##, instead (since ##|x-a|<\delta' < \delta \rightarrow |x-a| < \delta##). So if ##\delta_1## works for (1) and ##\delta_2## works for (2), then ##min(\delta_1,\delta_2)## works for both.
 
LastOneStanding said:
Given some ##\delta## that works in an epsilon-delta proof, you can always take a smaller delta, ##\delta'##, instead (since ##|x-a|<\delta' < \delta \rightarrow |x-a| < \delta##). So if ##\delta_1## works for (1) and ##\delta_2## works for (2), then ##min(\delta_1,\delta_2)## works for both.

Alright, I see. I was thinking max and confusing myself, lol. Thanks!
 
Last edited:

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