What is the difference between Undefined and Nonexistent Limits

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Undefined limits occur when the limit approaches infinity, as in the case of \lim_{x \to 0} \frac{1}{x^2}, where both sides converge to infinity but do not yield a real number. In contrast, limits that do not exist, such as \lim_{x \to 0} \frac{1}{x}, arise when the left-hand and right-hand limits differ. The distinction lies in the behavior of the limits: undefined limits approach infinity, while non-existent limits fail to converge to a single value. Understanding these differences is crucial for solving calculus problems effectively. Clarifying these concepts can significantly enhance comprehension of limits in mathematical analysis.
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Homework Statement


I am having trouble understanding when limits are undefined and when they do not exist. I googled it and cannot find a good explanation. Can someone please explain this to me?


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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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They're interchangeable as far as I know.
 
Some examples might help.

Here's one where the limit does not exist.
\lim_{x \to 0} \frac{1}{x}

This limit doesn't exist because the left- and right-side limits aren't the same.

Here's one that's undefined.
\lim_{x \to 0} \frac{1}{x^2}
In this limit, the left-and right-side limits are the same, but are undefined, in the sense that infinity is not a number in the real number system.

That's how I would distinguish between these terms.
 
Thank you. That helped a lot.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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