Prove [itex]\lim_{a\to 0}\frac{1}{a} = \infty[/itex]

  • Thread starter Thread starter operationsres
  • Start date Start date
Join the discussion
Registration is free. Start your own thread to ask a follow-up.
1 reply · 2K views
operationsres
Messages
99
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement

Prove [itex]\lim_{a\to 0^+}\frac{1}{a} = +\infty[/itex] under the [itex]\epsilon[/math] definition of a limit.<br /> <br /> <b>2. The attempt at a solution</b><br /> <br /> Well, I can't do [itex]\frac{1}{a} - \infty < \epsilon[/itex] can I? Otherwise it's just obvious that it's infinity ..[/itex]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
For this particular problem you need to alter your definition abit since |f(x) - ∞| < ε translates into a useless statement.

You want to use this definition :

[itex]\forall M>0, \exists δ>0 \space | \space 0<|x-c|<δ \Rightarrow f(x) > M[/itex]

What this definition essentially means is that we can find a delta such that the function grows without bound.

Start by massaging the expression f(x) > M into a suitable form |x-c| < δ which will give you a δ which MIGHT work.

Then take that δ and show that it implies f(x) > M.