Limit of a function of two variables

In summary, the limit as you approach the surface of the sphere from "inside" and from "outside" is not the same, and so the resolution of the function is incorrect.
  • #1
Jalo
120
0

Homework Statement



Given the function
2rrbbti.png


Study its continuity

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know how to solve this function. Normally I'd try to prove the limit doesn't exist by getting different results trough different ways. However, in this function I don't have a point where the continuity might or might not exist. I have a conjunct of points.

Can anyone give me a hint on how to solve this?
 
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  • #2
You should have, if you are given an exercise like this, know the theorem that says "a function of two variables is continuous at a point if and only if it is continuous in each variable separately at that point". And even before that you should have learned that elementary functions are continuous where ever the are defined.

Here, all functions are "elementary" and the only place the function is undefined is where a denominator is 0: where [itex]1- x^2- y^2- z^2= 0[/itex]- i.e. on the surface of the unit sphere. Now, what is the limit as you approach the surface of the sphere from "inside" and from "outside"?
 
  • #3
HallsofIvy said:
You should have, if you are given an exercise like this, know the theorem that says "a function of two variables is continuous at a point if and only if it is continuous in each variable separately at that point". And even before that you should have learned that elementary functions are continuous where ever the are defined.

Here, all functions are "elementary" and the only place the function is undefined is where a denominator is 0: where [itex]1- x^2- y^2- z^2= 0[/itex]- i.e. on the surface of the unit sphere. Now, what is the limit as you approach the surface of the sphere from "inside" and from "outside"?
z=x²+y²+z²)

limz→1 e1/(1-z) = e1/0 = e = ∞ ≠ (f(0,0) = 1)

Is this resolution correct?
 

FAQ: Limit of a function of two variables

What is a limit of a function of two variables?

A limit of a function of two variables is a mathematical concept that describes the behavior of a function as the input values approach a specific point in the domain. It is used to analyze the behavior of a function near a particular point and to determine if the function is continuous at that point.

How is the limit of a function of two variables calculated?

The limit of a function of two variables is calculated by evaluating the function at various input points that approach the desired point. This is done by plugging in values that get closer and closer to the desired point and observing the output values. The limit is then determined by looking at the trend of the output values as the input values get closer to the desired point.

What does it mean when the limit of a function of two variables does not exist?

If the limit of a function of two variables does not exist, it means that the function does not have a well-defined limit at that particular point. This can occur if the output values approach different values from different directions or if the function is undefined at that point.

What is the difference between a two-sided limit and a one-sided limit?

A two-sided limit of a function of two variables considers the behavior of the function as the input values approach the desired point from both the left and the right sides. A one-sided limit, on the other hand, only considers the behavior of the function from one side (either the left or the right) as the input values approach the desired point.

How is the concept of limit of a function of two variables applied in real-world situations?

The concept of limit of a function of two variables is applied in many real-world situations, such as in physics, engineering, and economics. It is used to model the behavior of systems that involve two variables, such as time and distance, velocity and acceleration, or supply and demand. By analyzing the limits of these functions, we can better understand the behavior of these systems and make predictions about their future behavior.

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