The Rule for Finding Limits of Difference of Powers: (a^n - b^n)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the limit of the expression (x^1000 - 1) / (x - 1) as x approaches 1, which falls under the subject area of calculus, specifically limits and the difference of powers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore various methods to approach the limit, including a hint about factoring the difference of powers. Some express uncertainty about how to begin, while others share humorous attempts that do not contribute to the solution.

Discussion Status

There is a mix of attempts to clarify the problem and share hints. Some participants have provided guidance on factoring the expression, while others have confirmed the limit as 1000. However, there is no explicit consensus on the terminology used for the rule related to the difference of powers.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for showing work before receiving hints, indicating a focus on understanding the process rather than just obtaining the answer. There is also a reference to l'Hôpital's Rule as a potential method, but it is not the primary focus of the discussion.

shawshank
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limit of x --> 1

(x^1000 - 1 ) / (x-1)
 
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what have you done so far? show your work before someone here gives you any hints!
 
lim of x ---> 1

(x^1000)(x+1)/(x^2-1)

hahah, lol just kidding.

seriously, have no clue where to start.
 
ok, then let's do this before i get out of here:
well i am going to try to give u a hint
a^{n}-b^{n}=(a-b)(a^{n-1}+a^{n-2}b+a^{n-3}b^{2}+a^{n-4}b^{3}+...+a^{2}b^{n-3}+ab^{n-2}+b^{n-1}), in your problem a=x, b=1 , and n=1000, also remember that 1=1^1000, or any other real power.


i hope this will do u any good!
 
Last edited:
thanks i got it, it's 1000. What is the rule called the (a^n - b^n).
 
l'Hôpital's Rule

Or you could look up "l'Hôpital's Rule" (try wikipedia or any elementary textbook on calculus).

But I agree, sutupidmath's method is the easy and obvious one in this case (and yes it is 1000)! :smile:
 
shawshank said:
thanks i got it, it's 1000. What is the rule called the (a^n - b^n).

i am not sure how do u call it in english, but it is merely the diference of powers i guess!
 

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