Why does the proof for d/dx lnx use Euler's constant?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of Euler's constant in the proof of the derivative of the natural logarithm function. Participants explore the implications of limits as they relate to the proof, particularly focusing on the transition between limits as h approaches 0 and u approaches infinity.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether Euler's constant is relevant in the context of limits approaching 0, suggesting that it typically pertains to limits approaching infinity.
  • Another participant clarifies that as h approaches 0, the substitution leads to u approaching infinity, which connects the two limits.
  • A later reply emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying the limits when changing variables, arguing that the final limit should reflect u approaching infinity rather than 0.
  • One participant acknowledges the correction regarding the limits and suggests that if h/x is set to u, then the limit as u approaches 0 would be valid.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct interpretation of limits in the proof, particularly regarding the relationship between h approaching 0 and u approaching infinity. The discussion remains unresolved as participants explore these concepts.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made during variable substitution and the implications of those substitutions on the limits involved.

aclark609
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My question has to do with Euler's constant towards the end of the proof:

d/dx ln/x = lim h → 0 1/h ln(x+h) - lnx
= lim h→0 1/h ln[(x+h/x]
= lim h→0 1/h ln(1 + h/x)
= lim h→0 ln(1 + h/x)^(1/h)(1/x)(x/1)
= lim h→0 1/x ln(1+h/x)^(x/h) ;

let u = x/h

= 1/x lim h→0 ln(1+1/u)^u
= 1/x lne
= 1/x

Doesn't Euler's constant deal with the lim h→∞ instead of 0? Are they interchangeable? If so, why?
 
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aclark609 said:
My question has to do with Euler's constant towards the end of the proof:

d/dx ln/x = lim h → 0 1/h ln(x+h) - lnx
= lim h→0 1/h ln[(x+h/x]
= lim h→0 1/h ln(1 + h/x)
= lim h→0 ln(1 + h/x)^(1/h)(1/x)(x/1)
= lim h→0 1/x ln(1+h/x)^(x/h) ;

let u = x/h

= 1/x lim h→0 ln(1+1/u)^u
= 1/x lne
= 1/x

Doesn't Euler's constant deal with the lim h→∞ instead of 0? Are they interchangeable? If so, why?

If you let u→∞, you'll get e (which can be called Euler's number, Euler's constant usually means another number γ). Clearly, h→0 implies u→∞.
 
EDIT: lim h-->0 should be lim u-->0
 
Last edited:
aclark609 said:
EDIT: lim h-->0 should be lim u-->0

Why? When you make a substitution or a change of variables, you have to check how the new variable (i.e. u) depends on the original one (i.e. h). Otherwise, you'd get ridiculous results like the following (let y=2x)
[tex]2=\lim_{y\rightarrow 2} y = \lim_{x\rightarrow 2} 2x=4[/tex]

EDIT: My point is that your final limit should be [itex]u\rightarrow \infty[/itex], not [itex]u\rightarrow 0[/itex].
 
Last edited:
Aaaahhh. You're right. However if I allow h/x = u, then then lim u -->0 would be correct.
 

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