Finding Limit: Stuck on Calculus Exam Problem

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In summary, the conversation is about a difficult calculus problem involving a limit and the use of L'Hopital's rule or trigonometric identities. The person is seeking advice and a solution to the problem before their upcoming exam. L'Hopital's rule is suggested, but then it is mentioned that it is not allowed. An alternative solution using a trig identity is proposed, and the conversation ends with a request for help or advice.
  • #1
Redoctober
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I i am fed up with these question. some are easy to solve , some solve themselfs along and some seem to have no answer in the far horizon like this question -.-

lim (tanx - sqrt3)/(3x-pie)
x->(pie/3)

I did it until i reached (sin^2(x) - 3cos^2(x))/(cos(x).(3x-pie).(sinx+sqrt3.cosx) where i got stuck !

Help ! .
If you have any advice about how to approach such questions please tell me or i ll be screwed in my upcoming Calculus exam :S . Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
Do you know "L'Hopital's rule"? That makes this problem easy. If not, then it would probably be best to use a trig identity: write tan(x- pi/3) in terms of trig functions of x and pi/3 separately.
 
  • #3
HallsofIvy said:
Do you know "L'Hopital's rule"? That makes this problem easy. If not, then it would probably be best to use a trig identity: write tan(x- pi/3) in terms of trig functions of x and pi/3 separately.

Thanks
btw L'Hopital's rule is not allowed , I guess i ll try using tan(x-pi/3) = ( tanx - tan(pi/3))/( 1+tanxtan(pi/3))

If anyone found a solution for this problem please post it or atleast an advice :D !
 
  • #4
tan(pi/3)=sqrt(3) so recognize tan'(pi/3)
[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow\pi/3}\frac{\tan(x)-\sqrt{3}}{3x-\pi}=\frac{1}{3}\lim_{x\rightarrow\pi/3}\frac{\tan(x)-\tan(\pi/3)}{x-\pi/3}=\frac{\tan'(\pi/3)}{3}[/tex]
 

FAQ: Finding Limit: Stuck on Calculus Exam Problem

What is a limit in calculus?

A limit in calculus is the value that a function approaches as the input (independent variable) approaches a certain value. It is used to describe the behavior of a function near a specific point.

How do you find limits in calculus?

To find a limit in calculus, you can use various techniques such as substitution, factoring, and L'Hopital's rule. You can also use a graph or a table of values to estimate the limit.

What do you do when you are stuck on a calculus exam problem involving limits?

If you are stuck on a calculus exam problem involving limits, try to identify what type of limit it is (e.g. indeterminate form, infinite limit, etc.) and use the appropriate method to solve it. You can also go back to your notes or textbook to review the concept and try similar practice problems.

When should you use L'Hopital's rule to find a limit?

L'Hopital's rule should be used when you have an indeterminate form, such as 0/0 or ∞/∞. It states that if the limit of the quotient of two functions is indeterminate, then the limit of the quotient of their derivatives will give the same value.

Can you use a calculator to find limits in calculus?

Yes, you can use a calculator to find limits in calculus. However, it is important to understand the concept and use the calculator as a tool, rather than relying on it entirely. Some calculators have built-in functions for finding limits, while others allow you to graph the function and estimate the limit visually.

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