What Is a Limit of a Function? A 5 Minute Introduction

AI Thread Summary
A limit in mathematics describes the behavior of a function or sequence as it approaches a specific point, playing a vital role in calculus for defining continuity, derivatives, and integrals. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding limits, particularly in the context of proofs and mathematical reasoning. A participant expresses a desire to learn the mathematics relevant to chemistry, including linear algebra and analysis, to enhance their skills in proof-based reasoning. They seek guidance on transitioning from basic logic concepts to more complex limit proofs, specifically delta-epsilon definitions. The conversation highlights the connection between mathematical foundations and practical applications in scientific fields.
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ToggleWhat is a limit?What is a function?
Definition of a Limit of  a FunctionEquationsExtended explanation
What is a limit?
In mathematics, a limit is a fundamental concept used to describe the behavior of a function or sequence as it approaches a particular point or value. Limits play a crucial role in calculus, where they are used to define concepts like continuity, derivatives, and integrals.
Here are key aspects of limits:

Definition: The limit of a function or...

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Hi Greg. I am trying to develop the skill of "proofs based reasoning". I am a synthetic organic chemist, and would love to learn the math associated with chemistry, for example: Linear algebra, Group theory (Quantum chem). I would also like to learn to write, analyze and appreciate proofs in Analysis, for instance to read and work out problems in Apostol, Spivak.

I don't have any agenda/timelines (except in this lifetime, that'd be good!) and just would like to do it for self-satisfaction. I tried reading "Intro to logic" , truth tables (If p then q,) but I fail to see the jump from those to, say, delta-epsilon limits proof.

Maybe this is all silly... but in case it is not, would you be able to suggest/point out how I could go about this? Thanks and appreciate your time and help.
 
Suppose ,instead of the usual x,y coordinate system with an I basis vector along the x -axis and a corresponding j basis vector along the y-axis we instead have a different pair of basis vectors ,call them e and f along their respective axes. I have seen that this is an important subject in maths My question is what physical applications does such a model apply to? I am asking here because I have devoted quite a lot of time in the past to understanding convectors and the dual...
Insights auto threads is broken atm, so I'm manually creating these for new Insight articles. In Dirac’s Principles of Quantum Mechanics published in 1930 he introduced a “convenient notation” he referred to as a “delta function” which he treated as a continuum analog to the discrete Kronecker delta. The Kronecker delta is simply the indexed components of the identity operator in matrix algebra Source: https://www.physicsforums.com/insights/what-exactly-is-diracs-delta-function/ by...

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