Understanding Continuity: When is a Function Continuous?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conditions for the continuity of a function represented as f(x)/g(x). The correct answer to when the function is continuous is when g(x) cannot equal 0, as having a denominator of zero renders the function undefined. The participants clarified that "defined" refers to a function having a value, which is crucial for determining continuity. Thus, the key takeaway is that for continuity, g(x) must be defined and non-zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of function continuity in calculus
  • Knowledge of rational functions and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concept of undefined values in mathematics
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating functions
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  • Study the definition and properties of continuous functions in calculus
  • Learn about limits and their role in determining continuity
  • Explore the implications of discontinuities in rational functions
  • Review examples of functions that are continuous and those that are not
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Students studying calculus, educators teaching mathematical concepts, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of function continuity and rational expressions.

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Homework Statement



You're simply given f(x)/g(x) and it asks, when is the function continuous?

There was one that was definitely wrong, so I remember these remaining choices:
a) It is continuous when f(x) and g(x) are defined
b) " " when g(x) cannot equal 0
c) " " when g(x) is defined.

The Attempt at a Solution



I chose c) but I realized that it could be b) because you can't have a denominator 0. At the time, I was thinking that defined meant having a value that is not 0 because usually when a function has a denominator 0, we call the function "undefined."

Can someone please clarify? :)
 
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The answer is b. "Defined" just means that a function has a value.
 

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