Solving for the Limit of \frac{3x}{\sqrt{x+2}}

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the limit of the expression \(\frac{3x}{\sqrt{x+2}}\) as \(x\) approaches 7. The context is calculus, specifically focusing on limits and continuity of functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to manipulate the expression algebraically but expresses confusion about how to proceed. Some participants question the continuity of the function at \(x = 7\) and suggest that the original poster should clarify their understanding of continuity. Others inquire about the necessity of algebraic manipulation versus direct substitution.

Discussion Status

The discussion has evolved with participants exploring the concept of continuity and the implications for finding limits. There is a recognition of the original poster's misunderstanding, and they have acknowledged their error in interpreting the problem. The request for a thread lock indicates a resolution has been reached from the original poster's perspective.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem must be solved algebraically, as per the requirements of the original poster's textbook and teacher. There is an emphasis on not using graphing calculators and a focus on understanding the algebraic properties of the function.

Burjam
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Homework Statement



Find algebraically:

[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow 7} {\frac{3x}{\sqrt{x+2}}}[/tex]

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]{\frac{3x}{\sqrt{x+2}}} * \frac{\sqrt{x+2}}{\sqrt{x+2}}[/tex]
[tex]\frac{3x\sqrt{x+2}}{x+2}[/tex]

In most of these problems, I get the limit of a square root + another number and I'm able to factor. This problem just threw me off. How should I proceed?
 
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When you are asked to find limits such as this, it is usually the case that the expression is not continuous at the value of x that you are asked to find the limit at.

Can you see where this function is not continuous?
 
oay said:
When you are asked to find limits such as this, it is usually the case that the expression is not continuous at the value of x that you are asked to find the limit at.

Can you see where this function is not continuous?

No graphing calculators. This has to be done algebraically. I'll add that to the thread.
 
Burjam said:
No graphing calculators. This has to be done algebraically. I'll add that to the thread.
No graphing calculators are required. Do you know what continuous means?

What makes you think you need to do what you did in your "attempt at a solution"?
 
oay said:
No graphing calculators are required. Do you know what continuous means?

What makes you think you need to do what you did in your "attempt at a solution"?


In order to see what part of the function is continuous, you need to be able to see a graph. I would have to graph it or visualize it in my head. Unfortunately, I cannot visualize the graph and therefore cannot tell where it's continuous or not.

I have to do it "algebraically" according to my textbook and teacher. She doesn't want us to just look at the function and point out the limit.
 
Burjam said:
In order to see what part of the function is continuous, you need to be able to see a graph. I would have to graph it or visualize it in my head. Unfortunately, I cannot visualize the graph and therefore cannot tell where it's continuous or not.
Ok, what year are you in? Sorry, I have to ask this to judge my comments for a homework question.

I ask this as if you are being asked to find limits, I would've thought you'd know what continuous meant.

Can you see what this function equals if x=7?
 
No no no I know what continuous means. This is for my Calc class senior year. We're doing pre calc review and I'm a little rusty on a few things.

If x=7 it's undefined. From my understanding, when you are solving in the manner my teacher has requested, you usually either factor, rationalize, or something along those lines until you have an equation where you can plug in the value x is approaching and find a limit.
 
Burjam said:
If x=7 it's undefined.
What makes you say that?
 
Oh wait this whole thread has been incredibly stupid. I just realized that I completely read the problem and everything you've been saying wrong and that this problem didn't call for me to change the equation given the value x is approaching can be plugged in. I just automatically assumed it couldn't given that all the problems I had before were much harder and required that. Lmao this what happens when your brain is put into too much of a routine; you don't even read the problem. That and the lack of sleep I've had this weekend.

I'm requesting a lock on this thread. Issue has been resolved.
 
  • #10
Burjam said:
Oh wait this whole thread has been incredibly stupid. I just realized that I completely read the problem and everything you've been saying wrong and that this problem didn't call for me to change the equation given the value x is approaching can be plugged in. I just automatically assumed it couldn't given that all the problems I had before were much harder and required that. Lmao this what happens when your brain is put into too much of a routine; you don't even read the problem. That and the lack of sleep I've had this weekend.

I'm requesting a lock on this thread. Issue has been resolved.
No problem! :smile:

Everyone has days like that! :smile:

Don't be afraid to come back with your next problem, though!
 

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