Top Banner
Section 1.4 Calculating Limits V63.0121.021, Calculus I New York University September 16, 2010 Announcements I First written homework due today (put it in the envelope) Remember to put your lecture and recitation section numbers on your paper
106

Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

May 25, 2015

Download

Documents

basic limits, limit laws, limits of algebraic and rational functions, limits of piecewise functions, limits of trigonometric quotients.
Welcome message from author
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Page 1: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Section 1.4Calculating Limits

V63.0121.021, Calculus I

New York University

September 16, 2010

Announcements

I First written homework due today (put it in the envelope) Rememberto put your lecture and recitation section numbers on your paper

Page 2: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Announcements

I First written homework duetoday (put it in theenvelope) Remember to putyour lecture and recitationsection numbers on yourpaper

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 2 / 45

Page 3: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Yoda on teaching a concepts course

“You must unlearn what you have learned.”

In other words, we are building up concepts and allowing ourselves only tospeak in terms of what we personally have produced.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 3 / 45

Page 4: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Objectives

I Know basic limits likelimx→a

x = a and limx→a

c = c .

I Use the limit laws tocompute elementary limits.

I Use algebra to simplifylimits.

I Understand and state theSqueeze Theorem.

I Use the Squeeze Theorem todemonstrate a limit.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 4 / 45

Page 5: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Outline

Recall: The concept of limit

Basic Limits

Limit LawsThe direct substitution property

Limits with AlgebraTwo more limit theorems

Two important trigonometric limits

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 5 / 45

Page 6: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Heuristic Definition of a Limit

Definition

We writelimx→a

f (x) = L

and say

“the limit of f (x), as x approaches a, equals L”

if we can make the values of f (x) arbitrarily close to L (as close to L as welike) by taking x to be sufficiently close to a (on either side of a) but notequal to a.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 6 / 45

Page 7: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

The error-tolerance game

A game between two players (Dana and Emerson) to decide if a limitlimx→a

f (x) exists.

Step 1 Dana proposes L to be the limit.

Step 2 Emerson challenges with an “error” level around L.

Step 3 Dana chooses a “tolerance” level around a so that points x withinthat tolerance of a (not counting a itself) are taken to values ywithin the error level of L. If Dana cannot, Emerson wins and thelimit cannot be L.

Step 4 If Dana’s move is a good one, Emerson can challenge again or giveup. If Emerson gives up, Dana wins and the limit is L.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 7 / 45

Page 8: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

The error-tolerance game

This tolerance is too bigStill too bigThis looks goodSo does this

a

L

I To be legit, the part of the graph inside the blue (vertical) strip mustalso be inside the green (horizontal) strip.

I If Emerson shrinks the error, Dana can still win.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 8 / 45

Page 9: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit FAIL: Jump

x

y

−1

1

Part of graph in-side blue is notinside green

Part of graph in-side blue is notinside green

I So limx→0

|x |x

does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 9 / 45

Page 10: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit FAIL: Jump

x

y

−1

1

Part of graph in-side blue is notinside green

Part of graph in-side blue is notinside green

I So limx→0

|x |x

does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 9 / 45

Page 11: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit FAIL: Jump

x

y

−1

1

Part of graph in-side blue is notinside green

Part of graph in-side blue is notinside green

I So limx→0

|x |x

does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 9 / 45

Page 12: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit FAIL: unboundedness

x

y

0

L?

The graph escapes thegreen, so no good

Even worse!

limx→0+

1

xdoes not exist

because the function isunbounded near 0

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 10 / 45

Page 13: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit EPIC FAIL

Here is a graph of the function f (x) = sin(πx

):

x

y

−1

1

For every y in [−1, 1], there are infinitely many points x arbitrarily close tozero where f (x) = y . So lim

x→0f (x) cannot exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 11 / 45

Page 14: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Outline

Recall: The concept of limit

Basic Limits

Limit LawsThe direct substitution property

Limits with AlgebraTwo more limit theorems

Two important trigonometric limits

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 12 / 45

Page 15: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Really basic limits

Fact

Let c be a constant and a a real number.

(i) limx→a

x = a

(ii) limx→a

c = c

Proof.

The first is tautological, the second is trivial.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 13 / 45

Page 16: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Really basic limits

Fact

Let c be a constant and a a real number.

(i) limx→a

x = a

(ii) limx→a

c = c

Proof.

The first is tautological, the second is trivial.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 13 / 45

Page 17: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 18: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 19: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 20: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 21: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 22: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 23: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = x

x

y

a

a

I Setting error equal to tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 14 / 45

Page 24: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 25: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 26: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 27: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 28: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 29: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 30: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) = c

x

y

a

c

I any tolerance works!

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 15 / 45

Page 31: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Really basic limits

Fact

Let c be a constant and a a real number.

(i) limx→a

x = a

(ii) limx→a

c = c

Proof.

The first is tautological, the second is trivial.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 16 / 45

Page 32: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Outline

Recall: The concept of limit

Basic Limits

Limit LawsThe direct substitution property

Limits with AlgebraTwo more limit theorems

Two important trigonometric limits

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 17 / 45

Page 33: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M

(errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M

(combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL

(error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 18 / 45

Page 34: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M

(combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL

(error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 18 / 45

Page 35: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M

(combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL

(error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 19 / 45

Page 36: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M

(combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL

(error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 19 / 45

Page 37: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M

(combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL (error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 19 / 45

Page 38: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Justification of the scaling law

I errors scale: If f (x) is e away from L, then

(c · f (x)− c · L) = c · (f (x)− L) = c · e

That is, (c · f )(x) is c · e away from cL,

I So if Emerson gives us an error of 1 (for instance), Dana can use thefact that lim

x→af (x) = L to find a tolerance for f and g corresponding

to the error 1/c.

I Dana wins the round.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 20 / 45

Page 39: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M (combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL (error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 21 / 45

Page 40: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M (combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL (error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M

(more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 22 / 45

Page 41: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic

Fact

Suppose limx→a

f (x) = L and limx→a

g(x) = M and c is a constant. Then

1. limx→a

[f (x) + g(x)] = L + M (errors add)

2. limx→a

[f (x)− g(x)] = L−M (combination of adding and scaling)

3. limx→a

[cf (x)] = cL (error scales)

4. limx→a

[f (x)g(x)] = L ·M (more complicated, but doable)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 22 / 45

Page 42: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an

(follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 23 / 45

Page 43: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Caution!

I The quotient rule for limits says that if limx→a

g(x) 6= 0, then

limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

limx→a f (x)

limx→a g(x)

I It does NOT say that if limx→a

g(x) = 0, then

limx→a

f (x)

g(x)does not exist

In fact, limits of quotients where numerator and denominator bothtend to 0 are exactly where the magic happens.

I more about this later

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 24 / 45

Page 44: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an

(follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 25 / 45

Page 45: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an

(follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 25 / 45

Page 46: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an

(follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 25 / 45

Page 47: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an

(follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 25 / 45

Page 48: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an (follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 25 / 45

Page 49: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits and arithmetic II

Fact (Continued)

5. limx→a

f (x)

g(x)=

L

M, if M 6= 0.

6. limx→a

[f (x)]n =[

limx→a

f (x)]n

(follows from 4 repeatedly)

7. limx→a

xn = an (follows from 6)

8. limx→a

n√x = n√a

9. limx→a

n√

f (x) = n

√limx→a

f (x) (If n is even, we must additionally assume

that limx→a

f (x) > 0)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 25 / 45

Page 50: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Applying the limit laws

Example

Find limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

).

Solution

By applying the limit laws repeatedly:

limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

)

= limx→3

(x2)

+ limx→3

(2x) + limx→3

(4)

=(

limx→3

x)2

+ 2 · limx→3

(x) + 4

= (3)2 + 2 · 3 + 4

= 9 + 6 + 4 = 19.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 26 / 45

Page 51: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Applying the limit laws

Example

Find limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

).

Solution

By applying the limit laws repeatedly:

limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

)

= limx→3

(x2)

+ limx→3

(2x) + limx→3

(4)

=(

limx→3

x)2

+ 2 · limx→3

(x) + 4

= (3)2 + 2 · 3 + 4

= 9 + 6 + 4 = 19.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 26 / 45

Page 52: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Applying the limit laws

Example

Find limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

).

Solution

By applying the limit laws repeatedly:

limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

)= lim

x→3

(x2)

+ limx→3

(2x) + limx→3

(4)

=(

limx→3

x)2

+ 2 · limx→3

(x) + 4

= (3)2 + 2 · 3 + 4

= 9 + 6 + 4 = 19.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 26 / 45

Page 53: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Applying the limit laws

Example

Find limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

).

Solution

By applying the limit laws repeatedly:

limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

)= lim

x→3

(x2)

+ limx→3

(2x) + limx→3

(4)

=(

limx→3

x)2

+ 2 · limx→3

(x) + 4

= (3)2 + 2 · 3 + 4

= 9 + 6 + 4 = 19.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 26 / 45

Page 54: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Applying the limit laws

Example

Find limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

).

Solution

By applying the limit laws repeatedly:

limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

)= lim

x→3

(x2)

+ limx→3

(2x) + limx→3

(4)

=(

limx→3

x)2

+ 2 · limx→3

(x) + 4

= (3)2 + 2 · 3 + 4

= 9 + 6 + 4 = 19.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 26 / 45

Page 55: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Applying the limit laws

Example

Find limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

).

Solution

By applying the limit laws repeatedly:

limx→3

(x2 + 2x + 4

)= lim

x→3

(x2)

+ limx→3

(2x) + limx→3

(4)

=(

limx→3

x)2

+ 2 · limx→3

(x) + 4

= (3)2 + 2 · 3 + 4

= 9 + 6 + 4 = 19.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 26 / 45

Page 56: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Find limx→3

x2 + 2x + 4

x3 + 11

Solution

The answer is19

38=

1

2.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 27 / 45

Page 57: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Find limx→3

x2 + 2x + 4

x3 + 11

Solution

The answer is19

38=

1

2.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 27 / 45

Page 58: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Direct Substitution Property

Theorem (The Direct Substitution Property)

If f is a polynomial or a rational function and a is in the domain of f , then

limx→a

f (x) = f (a)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 28 / 45

Page 59: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Outline

Recall: The concept of limit

Basic Limits

Limit LawsThe direct substitution property

Limits with AlgebraTwo more limit theorems

Two important trigonometric limits

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 29 / 45

Page 60: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits do not see the point! (in a good way)

Theorem

If f (x) = g(x) when x 6= a, and limx→a

g(x) = L, then limx→a

f (x) = L.

Example

Find limx→−1

x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1, if it exists.

Solution

Sincex2 + 2x + 1

x + 1= x + 1 whenever x 6= −1, and since lim

x→−1x + 1 = 0,

we have limx→−1

x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1= 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 30 / 45

Page 61: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits do not see the point! (in a good way)

Theorem

If f (x) = g(x) when x 6= a, and limx→a

g(x) = L, then limx→a

f (x) = L.

Example

Find limx→−1

x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1, if it exists.

Solution

Sincex2 + 2x + 1

x + 1= x + 1 whenever x 6= −1, and since lim

x→−1x + 1 = 0,

we have limx→−1

x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1= 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 30 / 45

Page 62: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limits do not see the point! (in a good way)

Theorem

If f (x) = g(x) when x 6= a, and limx→a

g(x) = L, then limx→a

f (x) = L.

Example

Find limx→−1

x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1, if it exists.

Solution

Sincex2 + 2x + 1

x + 1= x + 1 whenever x 6= −1, and since lim

x→−1x + 1 = 0,

we have limx→−1

x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1= 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 30 / 45

Page 63: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) =x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1

x

y

−1

I Even if f (−1) were something else, it would not effect the limit.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 31 / 45

Page 64: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

ET game for f (x) =x2 + 2x + 1

x + 1

x

y

−1

I Even if f (−1) were something else, it would not effect the limit.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 31 / 45

Page 65: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 66: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 67: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 68: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 69: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 70: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 71: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Limit of a function defined piecewise at a boundarypoint

Example

Let

f (x) =

{x2 x ≥ 0

−x x < 0

Does limx→0

f (x) exist?

Solution

We havelim

x→0+f (x)

MTP= lim

x→0+x2

DSP= 02 = 0

Likewise:lim

x→0−f (x) = lim

x→0−−x = −0 = 0

So limx→0

f (x) = 0.V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 32 / 45

Page 72: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Finding limits by algebraic manipulations

Example

Find limx→4

√x − 2

x − 4.

Solution

Write the denominator as x − 4 =√x2 − 4 = (

√x − 2)(

√x + 2). So

limx→4

√x − 2

x − 4= lim

x→4

√x − 2

(√x − 2)(

√x + 2)

= limx→4

1√x + 2

=1

4

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 33 / 45

Page 73: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Finding limits by algebraic manipulations

Example

Find limx→4

√x − 2

x − 4.

Solution

Write the denominator as x − 4 =√x2 − 4 = (

√x − 2)(

√x + 2).

So

limx→4

√x − 2

x − 4= lim

x→4

√x − 2

(√x − 2)(

√x + 2)

= limx→4

1√x + 2

=1

4

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 33 / 45

Page 74: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Finding limits by algebraic manipulations

Example

Find limx→4

√x − 2

x − 4.

Solution

Write the denominator as x − 4 =√x2 − 4 = (

√x − 2)(

√x + 2). So

limx→4

√x − 2

x − 4= lim

x→4

√x − 2

(√x − 2)(

√x + 2)

= limx→4

1√x + 2

=1

4

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 33 / 45

Page 75: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Let

f (x) =

{1− x2 x ≥ 1

2x x < 1

Find limx→1

f (x) if it exists.

1

Solution

We have

limx→1+

f (x) = limx→1+

(1− x2

) DSP= 0

limx→1−

f (x) = limx→1−

(2x)DSP= 2

The left- and right-hand limits disagree, so the limit does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 34 / 45

Page 76: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Let

f (x) =

{1− x2 x ≥ 1

2x x < 1

Find limx→1

f (x) if it exists.

1

Solution

We have

limx→1+

f (x) = limx→1+

(1− x2

) DSP= 0

limx→1−

f (x) = limx→1−

(2x)DSP= 2

The left- and right-hand limits disagree, so the limit does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 34 / 45

Page 77: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Let

f (x) =

{1− x2 x ≥ 1

2x x < 1

Find limx→1

f (x) if it exists. 1

Solution

We have

limx→1+

f (x) = limx→1+

(1− x2

) DSP= 0

limx→1−

f (x) = limx→1−

(2x)DSP= 2

The left- and right-hand limits disagree, so the limit does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 34 / 45

Page 78: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Let

f (x) =

{1− x2 x ≥ 1

2x x < 1

Find limx→1

f (x) if it exists. 1

Solution

We have

limx→1+

f (x) = limx→1+

(1− x2

) DSP= 0

limx→1−

f (x) = limx→1−

(2x)DSP= 2

The left- and right-hand limits disagree, so the limit does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 34 / 45

Page 79: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Let

f (x) =

{1− x2 x ≥ 1

2x x < 1

Find limx→1

f (x) if it exists. 1

Solution

We have

limx→1+

f (x) = limx→1+

(1− x2

) DSP= 0

limx→1−

f (x) = limx→1−

(2x)DSP= 2

The left- and right-hand limits disagree, so the limit does not exist.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 34 / 45

Page 80: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Your turn

Example

Let

f (x) =

{1− x2 x ≥ 1

2x x < 1

Find limx→1

f (x) if it exists. 1

Solution

We have

limx→1+

f (x) = limx→1+

(1− x2

) DSP= 0

limx→1−

f (x) = limx→1−

(2x)DSP= 2

The left- and right-hand limits disagree, so the limit does not exist.V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 34 / 45

Page 81: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

A message from the Mathematical Grammar Police

Please do not say “ limx→a

f (x) = DNE.” Does not compute.

I Too many verbs

I Leads to FALSE limit laws like “If limx→a

f (x) DNE and limx→a

g(x) DNE,

then limx→a

(f (x) + g(x)) DNE.”

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 35 / 45

Page 82: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

A message from the Mathematical Grammar Police

Please do not say “ limx→a

f (x) = DNE.” Does not compute.

I Too many verbs

I Leads to FALSE limit laws like “If limx→a

f (x) DNE and limx→a

g(x) DNE,

then limx→a

(f (x) + g(x)) DNE.”

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 35 / 45

Page 83: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

A message from the Mathematical Grammar Police

Please do not say “ limx→a

f (x) = DNE.” Does not compute.

I Too many verbs

I Leads to FALSE limit laws like “If limx→a

f (x) DNE and limx→a

g(x) DNE,

then limx→a

(f (x) + g(x)) DNE.”

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 35 / 45

Page 84: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Two More Important Limit Theorems

Theorem

If f (x) ≤ g(x) when x is near a (except possibly at a), then

limx→a

f (x) ≤ limx→a

g(x)

(as usual, provided these limits exist).

Theorem (The Squeeze/Sandwich/Pinching Theorem)

If f (x) ≤ g(x) ≤ h(x) when x is near a (as usual, except possibly at a),and

limx→a

f (x) = limx→a

h(x) = L,

thenlimx→a

g(x) = L.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 36 / 45

Page 85: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Using the Squeeze Theorem

We can use the Squeeze Theorem to replace complicated expressions withsimple ones when taking the limit.

Example

Show that limx→0

x2 sin(πx

)= 0.

Solution

We have for all x,

−1 ≤ sin(πx

)≤ 1 =⇒ −x2 ≤ x2 sin

(πx

)≤ x2

The left and right sides go to zero as x → 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 37 / 45

Page 86: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Using the Squeeze Theorem

We can use the Squeeze Theorem to replace complicated expressions withsimple ones when taking the limit.

Example

Show that limx→0

x2 sin(πx

)= 0.

Solution

We have for all x,

−1 ≤ sin(πx

)≤ 1 =⇒ −x2 ≤ x2 sin

(πx

)≤ x2

The left and right sides go to zero as x → 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 37 / 45

Page 87: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Using the Squeeze Theorem

We can use the Squeeze Theorem to replace complicated expressions withsimple ones when taking the limit.

Example

Show that limx→0

x2 sin(πx

)= 0.

Solution

We have for all x,

−1 ≤ sin(πx

)≤ 1 =⇒ −x2 ≤ x2 sin

(πx

)≤ x2

The left and right sides go to zero as x → 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 37 / 45

Page 88: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Illustration of the Squeeze Theorem

x

y h(x) = x2

f (x) = −x2

g(x) = x2 sin(πx

)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 38 / 45

Page 89: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Illustration of the Squeeze Theorem

x

y h(x) = x2

f (x) = −x2

g(x) = x2 sin(πx

)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 38 / 45

Page 90: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Illustration of the Squeeze Theorem

x

y h(x) = x2

f (x) = −x2

g(x) = x2 sin(πx

)

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 38 / 45

Page 91: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Outline

Recall: The concept of limit

Basic Limits

Limit LawsThe direct substitution property

Limits with AlgebraTwo more limit theorems

Two important trigonometric limits

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 39 / 45

Page 92: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Two important trigonometric limits

Theorem

The following two limits hold:

I limθ→0

sin θ

θ= 1

I limθ→0

cos θ − 1

θ= 0

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 40 / 45

Page 93: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θ

sin θ

cos θ

θ

tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤

θ

≤ 2 tanθ

2≤ tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 94: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θsin θ

cos θ

θ

tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤ θ

≤ 2 tanθ

2≤ tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 95: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θsin θ

cos θ

θ tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤ θ

≤ 2 tanθ

2≤

tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 96: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θsin θ

cos θ

θ tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤ θ ≤ 2 tanθ

2≤ tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 97: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θsin θ

cos θ

θ tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤ θ ≤ 2 tanθ

2≤ tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 98: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θsin θ

cos θ

θ tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤ θ ≤ 2 tanθ

2≤ tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 99: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Sine Limit

Proof.

θsin θ

cos θ

θ tan θ

−1 1

Notice

sin θ ≤ θ ≤ 2 tanθ

2≤ tan θ

Divide by sin θ:

1 ≤ θ

sin θ≤ 1

cos θ

Take reciprocals:

1 ≥ sin θ

θ≥ cos θ

As θ → 0, the left and right sides tend to 1. So, then, must the middleexpression.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 41 / 45

Page 100: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Proof of the Cosine Limit

Proof.

1− cos θ

θ=

1− cos θ

θ· 1 + cos θ

1 + cos θ=

1− cos2 θ

θ(1 + cos θ)

=sin2 θ

θ(1 + cos θ)=

sin θ

θ· sin θ

1 + cos θ

So

limθ→0

1− cos θ

θ=

(limθ→0

sin θ

θ

)·(

limθ→0

sin θ

1 + cos θ

)= 1 · 0 = 0.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 42 / 45

Page 101: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Try these

Example

1. limθ→0

tan θ

θ

2. limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ

Answer

1. 1

2. 2

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 43 / 45

Page 102: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Try these

Example

1. limθ→0

tan θ

θ

2. limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ

Answer

1. 1

2. 2

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 43 / 45

Page 103: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Solutions

1. Use the basic trigonometric limit and the definition of tangent.

limθ→0

tan θ

θ= lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ cos θ= lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ· limθ→0

1

cos θ= 1 · 1

1= 1.

2. Change the variable:

limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ= lim

2θ→0

sin 2θ

2θ · 12= 2 · lim

2θ→0

sin 2θ

2θ= 2 · 1 = 2

OR use a trigonometric identity:

limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ= lim

θ→0

2 sin θ cos θ

θ= 2 · lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ· limθ→0

cos θ = 2 · 1 · 1 = 2

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 44 / 45

Page 104: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Solutions

1. Use the basic trigonometric limit and the definition of tangent.

limθ→0

tan θ

θ= lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ cos θ= lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ· limθ→0

1

cos θ= 1 · 1

1= 1.

2. Change the variable:

limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ= lim

2θ→0

sin 2θ

2θ · 12= 2 · lim

2θ→0

sin 2θ

2θ= 2 · 1 = 2

OR use a trigonometric identity:

limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ= lim

θ→0

2 sin θ cos θ

θ= 2 · lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ· limθ→0

cos θ = 2 · 1 · 1 = 2

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 44 / 45

Page 105: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Solutions

1. Use the basic trigonometric limit and the definition of tangent.

limθ→0

tan θ

θ= lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ cos θ= lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ· limθ→0

1

cos θ= 1 · 1

1= 1.

2. Change the variable:

limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ= lim

2θ→0

sin 2θ

2θ · 12= 2 · lim

2θ→0

sin 2θ

2θ= 2 · 1 = 2

OR use a trigonometric identity:

limθ→0

sin 2θ

θ= lim

θ→0

2 sin θ cos θ

θ= 2 · lim

θ→0

sin θ

θ· limθ→0

cos θ = 2 · 1 · 1 = 2

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 44 / 45

Page 106: Lesson 4: Calculating Limits (Section 21 slides)

Summary

I The limit laws allow us to compute limits reasonably.

I BUT we cannot make up extra laws otherwise we get into trouble.

V63.0121.021, Calculus I (NYU) Section 1.4 Calculating Limits September 16, 2010 45 / 45