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

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The limit as x approaches π/8 for the expression (cos(2x)-√(2))/(x-π/8) is being analyzed, with the numerator approaching -√(2)/2 and the denominator approaching 0. The discussion highlights confusion over the relevance of the equation cos(2x)+cos(2a), which is deemed not applicable as it is not an identity. Participants note that the limit resembles forms like 1/x and 1/x², which indicate behavior towards infinity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying the limit's characteristics and clarifying misunderstandings about the equations involved. This limit problem requires careful analysis of the numerator and denominator as x approaches the specified value.
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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 \pi/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 \pi/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:

\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x}
\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x^2}

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:

\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x}
\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x^2}

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:

\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x}
\lim_{x \to 0}\frac{1}{x^2}

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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