Keep getting an indeterminate answer for limit

  • Thread starter thomasrules
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Limit
In summary, getting an indeterminate answer for a limit means that the limit of a function cannot be determined using traditional methods. To solve for an indeterminate limit, one can use L'Hôpital's rule or other techniques such as factoring or trigonometric identities. Functions that commonly result in indeterminate limits include rational, trigonometric, and exponential functions. An indeterminate limit cannot be solved algebraically and it is important to understand them as they arise in real-world applications and can aid in understanding complex mathematical concepts.
  • #1
thomasrules
243
0

Homework Statement


Determine the limit:

lim as x->-2 [1/(1+x)+1]/[2x+x^2]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I can't seem to work around it, I keep getting an indeterminate answer.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
thomasrules said:

Homework Statement


I can't seem to work around it, I keep getting an indeterminate answer.
Do you mean an indeterminate answer or an infinite one?
 
  • #3
No i think indeterminate...
 
  • #4
[tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow -2}\frac{\frac{1}{1+x}+1}{2x+x^2}[/tex]

Yes, Indeterminate: 0/0. But you shouldn't "keep" getting an inderminate answer. Have you tried L'Hopital's rule?
 

FAQ: Keep getting an indeterminate answer for limit

What does it mean to get an indeterminate answer for a limit?

Getting an indeterminate answer for a limit means that the limit of a function cannot be determined using traditional methods. This can happen when the function approaches a certain value but never actually reaches it, or when the function approaches different values from different directions.

How can I solve for an indeterminate limit?

To solve for an indeterminate limit, you can use L'Hôpital's rule, which involves taking the derivative of both the numerator and denominator of the function to simplify the expression and then evaluating the limit again. Alternatively, you can use other techniques such as factoring or trigonometric identities to simplify the function and then evaluate the limit.

What types of functions commonly result in indeterminate limits?

Functions that commonly result in indeterminate limits include rational functions with a numerator and denominator that both approach zero, trigonometric functions with asymptotes, and exponential functions with different rates of growth in the numerator and denominator.

Can an indeterminate limit be solved algebraically?

No, an indeterminate limit cannot be solved algebraically because the function cannot be simplified to a single value. Instead, it requires techniques such as L'Hôpital's rule or other mathematical methods to solve.

Why is it important to understand indeterminate limits?

Understanding indeterminate limits is important because they often arise in real-world applications, and being able to solve them accurately can help in making informed decisions. Additionally, understanding how to solve for indeterminate limits can also aid in understanding more complex mathematical concepts and techniques.

Back
Top