Proving Limits Using Delta Epsilon Method

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving a limit using the delta-epsilon method, specifically the limit of the function \(x^3 + 2x^2 - 3x + 4\) as \(x\) approaches 1. The original poster expresses confusion about the bounding process and the overall structure of a proof in real analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formal definition of limits in the context of delta-epsilon proofs. The original poster seeks guidance on how to bound the expression and integrate the components into a cohesive proof. Others provide insights into the bounding process and suggest specific delta values based on epsilon.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in the problem, with some offering guidance on bounding techniques and the formulation of delta. There is a focus on ensuring safety in the choice of delta, with suggestions for minimum values to maintain rigor in the proof.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a lack of resources and examples in their textbook, which contributes to their uncertainty about the delta-epsilon method and its application in real analysis proofs.

gaborfk
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Homework Statement


Using a delta epsilon method prove:
[tex]\mathop {\lim }\limits_{x \to 1 } x^3+2x^2-3x+4= 4[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


I got so far as breaking the equation into

[tex]=|x||x+3||x-1|[/tex] now how do I bound it? Also, even more basic question, once I found the bound how do I put the whole thing together as a proof? I do not want you to prove this one, but please, if you can provide a link to a similar problem for me to see how it flows from idea, to figuring out the bounding, to the scratch work of figuring out epsilon, to the actual proof write up. Like the whole flow of things.

I am very familiar with "standard" proofs, but very much lost on the real analysis ones... We have a very bad book with no examples but mainly some ideas, definitions and a ton of homework.


Thank you in advance
 
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well you need to show that

[tex]\forall\epsilon>0,\exists\delta(\epsilon)>0, \ \ such \ \ \ that \ \ \ whenever \ \ \ \\ \ \ <br /> <br /> 0<|x-1|<\delta => |x^{3}+2x^2-3x+4-4|<\epsilon ?[/tex]

Now from here we go:

[tex]|x^{3}+2x^2-3x+4-4|=|x^{3}+2x^2-3x|=|x(x^{2}+2x-3)|=|x||x+3||x-1|<|x||x+3|\delta<|x+3|2\delta<10\delta=\epsilon=>\delta=\frac{\epsilon}{10}[/tex]

lets see, since x-->1 , it is safe to assume that

[tex]0<x<2=>|x|<2[/tex] also [tex]0<x<2/+3 => 3<x+3<5=>|x+3|<5[/tex]
 
In order to be completely "safe" one should say something like [tex]\delta[/itex]= minimum of [itex]\left{\frac{\epsilon}{10}, 1\right}[/itex][/tex][itex].[/itex]
 
HallsofIvy said:
In order to be completely "safe" one should say something like [tex]\delta[/itex]= minimum of [itex]\left{\frac{\epsilon}{10}, 1\right}[/itex][/tex][itex].[/itex]
[itex] <br /> <br /> Yes, i forgot to add that![/itex]
 

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