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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving a limit involving a rational function as x approaches 0, specifically relating to the derivatives of two differentiable functions f and g, both evaluated at 0. The original poster presents a limit that results in an indeterminate form of 0/0.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the continuity of differentiable functions and the implications of the limit approaching an indeterminate form. There is mention of L'Hospital's rule and the Mean Value Theorem, with questions about their applicability given the current knowledge of the participants.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants sharing their thoughts on the relationship between the limit and the definition of a derivative. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relevance of the definition of a derivative, but there is no explicit consensus on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that they have not yet learned L'Hospital's rule, which may limit their approach to the problem. There is also a focus on understanding how the Mean Value Theorem might apply in this context.

FlorenceC
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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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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?
 
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.
 
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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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) ## ...
 

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