Is this solution to a limit equation correct?

  • Thread starter nedfin
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Limit
In summary, the equation 1-(1/((x-y)^x)) has a limit of 1 as (x,y) approaches (infinity,0). This is because (x-y)^x approaches infinity as (x,y) approaches (infinity,0), making the denominator very small and the fraction close to 1. This is not equivalent to 1 - inf^-inf or 1 - infinitesimal because both of those expressions are undefined. Therefore, your initial answer of 1 is incorrect.
  • #1
nedfin
2
1
Homework Statement
I ran into this equation online and an interested in why my answer might be wrong. What if anything is wrong with my logic.
Relevant Equations
1-(1/((x-y)^x))
lim(x,y) -> (inf,0)
Why is this not equivalent to

1 - inf^-inf,

Or 1 - infinitesimal ,

Or 1 ?

My answer was 1, which I told is incorrect.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
[tex]
\lim _{(x,y)\to (\infty,0)} \frac{1}{(x-y)^{x}} = 0
[/tex]
because ##(x-y)^x \to \infty ## as ##(x,y)\to (\infty,0)##. It is not equivalent to the first two items. ##\infty ^{-\infty}## is not a thing and neither is "infinitesimal". The initial limit is ##1## as you say.
 
  • Like
Likes nedfin
  • #3
nuuskur said:
[tex]
\lim _{(x,y)\to (\infty,0)} \frac{1}{(x-y)^{x}} = 0
[/tex]
because ##(x-y)^x \to \infty ## as ##(x,y)\to (\infty,0)##. It is not equivalent to the first two items. ##\infty ^{-\infty}## is not a thing and neither is "infinitesimal". The initial limit is ##1## as you say.
Thanks
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman
  • #4
nedfin said:
Homework Statement:: I ran into this equation online and an interested in why my answer might be wrong. What if anything is wrong with my logic.
Relevant Equations:: 1-(1/((x-y)^x))
lim(x,y) -> (inf,0)

Why is this not equivalent to

1 - inf^-inf,

Or 1 - infinitesimal ,

Or 1 ?

My answer was 1, which I told is incorrect.
Welcome to PF. :smile: I'm glad that @nuuskur was able to help you.

BTW, please consider learning LaTeX to post equations in discussion forums. You can find a "LaTeX Guide" link at the bottom of the Edit Window. It makes math equations *much* easier to read (as you can see by nuuskru's post). :smile:
 

FAQ: Is this solution to a limit equation correct?

What is a limit equation?

A limit equation is a mathematical expression that represents the value that a function approaches as its input approaches a certain value. It is used to describe the behavior of a function near a specific input value.

How do I know if a solution to a limit equation is correct?

To determine if a solution to a limit equation is correct, you can use various methods such as graphing, substitution, or algebraic manipulation. It is important to check your solution using multiple methods to ensure accuracy.

Can a limit equation have more than one solution?

No, a limit equation can only have one solution. The solution is the value that the function approaches as the input approaches a specific value. However, there can be multiple approaches to finding the solution.

What are some common mistakes when solving a limit equation?

Some common mistakes when solving a limit equation include forgetting to check for removable discontinuities, using incorrect algebraic manipulations, and not considering the behavior of the function at the specific input value.

How can I check my solution to a limit equation?

You can check your solution to a limit equation by graphing the function and observing its behavior near the specific input value. You can also plug in the solution to the original equation and see if it satisfies the limit definition. Additionally, you can use a limit calculator or ask a peer or teacher to review your solution.

Back
Top