Prove limit x approaches 0 of a rational function = ratio of derivatives

In summary, we are given that f and g are differentiable functions, f(0) = g(0) = 0, and g'(0) is not equal to 0. We need to show that the limit of f(x)/g(x) as x approaches 0 is equal to f'(0)/g'(0). Using the definition of a derivative, we can rewrite this limit as lim x->0 (f(x) - f(0))/(g(x) - g(0)). Since f(0) and g(0) are both equal to 0, we can rewrite this as lim x->0 (f(x) - 0)/(g(x
  • #1
FlorenceC
24
0
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known dat
If f and g are differentiable functions with f(O) = g(0) = 0 and g'(O) not equal 0, show that

lim f(x) = f'(0)
x->0 g(x) g'(0)

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that lim as x→a f(a) = f(a) if function is continuous. since its differentiable it's continuous. so lim x→0 f(x) = f(0). and lim x→0 g(x) = g(0) but you can't have a 0/0.
I have so idea how to get to the derivative part.
 
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  • #2
FlorenceC said:
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known dat
If f and g are differentiable functions with f(O) = g(0) = 0 and g'(O) not equal 0, show that

lim f(x) = f'(0)
x->0 g(x) g'(0)

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that lim as x→a f(a) = f(a) if function is continuous. since its differentiable it's continuous. so lim x→0 f(x) = f(0). and lim x→0 g(x) = g(0) but you can't have a 0/0.
I have so idea how to get to the derivative part.

This is essentially a special case of L'Hospital's rule. Do you know the Mean Value Theorem?
 
  • #3
PeroK said:
This is essentially a special case of L'Hospital's rule. Do you know the Mean Value Theorem?
Yes. but how does mvt apply? we didn't learn lhopitals rule yet.
 
  • #4
FlorenceC said:
Yes. but how does mvt apply? we didn't learn lhopitals rule yet.

Actually, you don't even need the MVT. Just think about the definition of a derivative.
 
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  • #5
This is one of those cases where adding zero back into the expression makes it more clear:
##\lim_{a\to 0} f(a) = \lim_{a\to 0} f(0+a)-f(0) ## ...
 

1. What is a rational function?

A rational function is a mathematical function that can be expressed as a ratio of two polynomials. In other words, it is a fraction where the numerator and denominator are both polynomials.

2. What does it mean to take the limit of a function?

Taking the limit of a function means finding the value that the function approaches as its input (x) gets closer and closer to a certain point or value. This is often denoted as "x approaches a" or "lim x→a".

3. Why is it important to prove the limit of a function?

Proving the limit of a function is important because it helps us understand the behavior of the function near a certain point or value. It also allows us to make predictions and solve problems involving the function.

4. How do you prove the limit of a rational function equals the ratio of derivatives?

To prove that the limit of a rational function equals the ratio of derivatives, we use the definition of the derivative and the limit laws to simplify the expression and then evaluate the limit. This involves finding the derivatives of both the numerator and denominator, and then taking the limit as x approaches the given value.

5. Can this method be applied to any rational function?

Yes, this method can be applied to any rational function as long as the function is continuous and differentiable at the given point or value. It is important to check for these conditions before using this method to prove the limit.

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