Solve Limit as x→π/8: (cos(2x)-√(2))/(x-π/8)

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the limit of the expression (cos(2x) - √(2)) / (x - π/8) as x approaches π/8. The subject area pertains to limits in calculus, specifically evaluating indeterminate forms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the behavior of the numerator and denominator as x approaches π/8, with some attempting to apply conjugates and identities. Questions arise about the relevance of certain equations and identities mentioned in the context of the limit.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the limit and questioning the validity of certain mathematical identities. There is acknowledgment of the approaches to the limit, but no consensus has been reached on the method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the relevance of specific equations, and there is a focus on the nature of the limit as it relates to known forms of limits that approach infinity or undefined values.

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Homework Statement



Find the limit as x approaches ∏/8, (cos(2x)-√(2))/(x-∏/8)

Homework Equations



cos(2x)+cos(2a)

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to multiply the conjugate of the terms but ended up stuck there, don't know how to go on. Please help.
 
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batman2002 said:

Homework Statement



Find the limit as x approaches ∏/8, (cos(2x)-√(2))/(x-∏/8)


Homework Equations



cos(2x)+cos(2a)
This isn't an equation, and I don't see how it's relevant to anything.
batman2002 said:

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried to multiply the conjugate of the terms but ended up stuck there, don't know how to go on. Please help.

As x approaches [itex]\pi[/itex]/8, what does the numerator approach? What does the denominator approach?
 
Mark44 said:
This isn't an equation, and I don't see how it's relevant to anything.As x approaches [itex]\pi[/itex]/8, what does the numerator approach? What does the denominator approach?

You end up with -(1/sqrt2)/0 limit. the equation is an identity that is supposed to help when solving the question.

I also tried expanding the relevant equation and ended up with, cos(2x)+cos(2a)=-2sin(x+a)sin(x-a)
 
batman2002 said:
You end up with -(1/sqrt2)/0 limit. the equation is an identity that is supposed to help when solving the question.

cos(2x)+cos(2a) is NOT an equation, so it can't possibly be an identity.
batman2002 said:
You end up with -(1/sqrt2)/0 limit.

But that's not a number. I agree that the numerator approaches -1/sqrt(2), which is the same as -sqrt(2)/2. And I agree that the denominator approaches 0.

So this problem is similar to these limits:

[tex]\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x}[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x^2}[/tex]

How would you characterize these two? (One of them has a direct bearing on your limit.)
 
I am not exactly sure about that.

Mark44 said:
cos(2x)+cos(2a) is NOT an equation, so it can't possibly be an identity.


But that's not a number. I agree that the numerator approaches -1/sqrt(2), which is the same as -sqrt(2)/2. And I agree that the denominator approaches 0.

So this problem is similar to these limits:

[tex]\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x}[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x^2}[/tex]

How would you characterize these two? (One of them has a direct bearing on your limit.)
 
batman2002 said:
I am not exactly sure about that.

Mark44 said:
cos(2x)+cos(2a) is NOT an equation, so it can't possibly be an identity.


But that's not a number. I agree that the numerator approaches -1/sqrt(2), which is the same as -sqrt(2)/2. And I agree that the denominator approaches 0.

So this problem is similar to these limits:

[tex]\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x}[/tex]
[tex]\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x^2}[/tex]

How would you characterize these two? (One of them has a direct bearing on your limit.)

What is it that you're not exactly sure about? If you think that cos(2x)+cos(2a) is an identity, I am absolutely certain that you are wrong.

Are you unsure that your limit is related to one of the ones I gave, you can start by answering my question.
 

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