Understanding Continuity for a Function with Variable n

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In summary, the conversation discusses finding the values of "n" for which a function is continuous. The solution involves checking the limit for both n<0 and n>0 cases. For n>0, the limit is a constant value and the answer is n>=1. The conversation also explains why n>0 was chosen instead of n>9 or n<9. A link with a picture of the solution is provided.
  • #1
transgalactic
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i added a link with the picture of the solution
i can't understand a certain solution
of finding for which values of "n"
he function is continues

first they split n<0 case
and check what limit comes out of it
an get that the limit is not constant so it not possible

then they check n>0 case
and get a constant limit value and then suddenly they switch
to the answer n>=1
how did they get this answer?

why in the first place they picked the case n>0
n<0

why couldn't i pick the cases
n>9
n<9

why did they pick this number??

http://img337.imageshack.us/my.php?image=66816873ds0.png
 
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  • #2
They are considering n as an integer; so n>0 => n =1 or n>1.

The reason they did not pick n > or < 9 is because the general characteristic of the function is the same for, say, n=7 and n=10 at x=0. The properties change when n crosses over from positive integral values to zero or negative integral values.

Have you understood why it's continuous at x=0 for positive integral values of n? (You've already understood the situation for negative n, you said.)
 

1. What is a continuous function?

A continuous function is a type of mathematical function that has a defined output value for every possible input value within its domain. This means that the graph of a continuous function has no breaks or gaps and can be drawn without lifting the pencil from the paper.

2. How do you determine if a function is continuous?

A function is considered continuous if it satisfies the three conditions of continuity: (1) the function is defined at the point in question, (2) the limit of the function at that point exists, and (3) the limit is equal to the value of the function at that point. If all three conditions are met, the function is continuous at that point.

3. What is the difference between a continuous and a discontinuous function?

A continuous function has a smooth and unbroken graph, while a discontinuous function has breaks or gaps in its graph. Additionally, a continuous function satisfies the three conditions of continuity, while a discontinuous function does not.

4. Can a function be continuous at one point but not at another?

Yes, a function can be continuous at one point but not at another. This means that the function satisfies the three conditions of continuity at one point, but fails to satisfy them at another point. In other words, there may be breaks or gaps in the graph of the function at certain points.

5. What are some real-world applications of continuous functions?

Continuous functions have many real-world applications, including in physics, economics, and engineering. For example, they can be used to model the trajectory of a projectile, the growth of a population, or the flow of electricity in a circuit. They are also used in data analysis and machine learning to make predictions and forecasts.

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