What is the Limit of (3x)/(x-2) as x Approaches 2 from the Left?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on finding the limit of the function (3x)/(x - 2) as x approaches 2 from the left side. Participants explore the behavior of the function near this point, considering both numerical and analytical approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that as x approaches 2 from the left, the function values decrease without bound, proposing that the limit is negative infinity.
  • Another participant agrees with the observation that for x close to 2 but less than 2, the denominator approaches 0 and is negative, while the numerator approaches 6 and is positive, leading to the conclusion that the limit is negative infinity.
  • A third participant repeats the reasoning about the signs of the numerator and denominator, reinforcing the idea that the limit approaches negative infinity.
  • One participant references a problem number and suggests looking up the answer, which does not contribute to the limit discussion directly.
  • There is a light-hearted exchange about math skills, with one participant expressing a desire for assistance with math problems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the limit approaches negative infinity as x approaches 2 from the left, although one post diverges from the main discussion by referencing a problem number.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the behavior of the function near the limit point are made, but there are no explicit mathematical steps provided to support the claims. The discussion does not delve into potential alternative interpretations or methods for finding the limit.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or individuals interested in understanding limits in calculus, particularly in the context of rational functions and their behavior near vertical asymptotes.

nycmathdad
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Find the limit of (3x)/(x - 2) as x tends to 2 from the left side.

Approaching 2 from the left means that the values of x must be slightly less than 2.

I created a table for x and f(x).

x...0...0.5...1...1.5
f(x)...0...-1...-3...-9

I can see that f(x) is getting smaller and smaller and possibly without bound.

I say the limit is negative infinity.

Yes?
 
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Problem 1.5.27.
Odd numbered.
Look up the answer.
 
For x close to 2 but less than 2, the denominator, x- 2 is close to 0 and negative while the numerator, 3x, is close to 6 and positive. That is enough to say that, for x going to 2 from the left, the fraction goes to negative infinity.
 
Country Boy said:
For x close to 2 but less than 2, the denominator, x- 2 is close to 0 and negative while the numerator, 3x, is close to 6 and positive. That is enough to say that, for x going to 2 from the left, the fraction goes to negative infinity.

You are good in math.
 
Beer soaked ramblings follow.
nycmathdad said:
You are good in math.
Translation: I hope flattering him would induce him to do more of my math problems for me.
 
Blush
(Saying I am "good at math" because I can do high school algebra is hardly flattering!)
 
Last edited:

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