Limits: Evaluating function of 2-variables where a limit doesn't exist

In summary: S. I have an exam tomorrow and this is the only outstanding issue. I can't believe its so simple and I'm struggling!In summary, we are evaluating the limit of a function involving sine and tangent as (x,y) approaches (0,0). We cannot simply plug in the coordinates due to the discontinuity of the sine function at the denominator. We are unsure of how to proceed and are seeking guidance on how to use the squeeze theorem and the range of the sine function to solve this problem. This is a pressing issue as there is an upcoming exam.
  • #1
petertheta
32
0

Homework Statement



Evaluate:

[tex]\lim_{(x,y)\to(0,0)} \sqrt{x^2+y^2}\sin \frac{1}{\tan xy}[/tex]

**Apologies that this Tex didn't come out, I can't see where the typos are**Hopefully you can still determine the function I am trying to write**





The Attempt at a Solution



So, I can see this isn't solveable by just plugging in the co-ords as the sine function will not be valid. I can't separate them as the Sine function isn't continuous due to Tan (xy) being in the denominator. I can't fix x or y or substitute a function for y = g(x).

I can't see a way forward or another example that would give me the direction I'm lacking.

Any pointers guys?
 
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  • #2
I believe that your function is :

[itex]lim_{(x,y)\to(0,0)} \sqrt{x^2+y^2} sin(\frac{1}{\tan(xy)})[/itex]
 
  • #3
Yep. Noted the differences. Thanks
 
  • #4
What do you know about the squeeze theorem? What do you know about |sinx| ?
 
  • #5
Not heard of it before. Just watched a tutorial online and an interesting theorem. It was only in one variable and don't see much out ther on 2-variable functions. Not sure about the modulus of sin(x)? It's alawys positive?
 
  • #6
petertheta said:

Homework Statement



Evaluate:

[itex]lim_{(x,y)\to(0,0)}[/itex][itex] \sqrt{x^2+y^2}*\sin{\frac{1}{\tan{x*y}}[/itex]

**Apologies that this Tex didn't come out, I can't see where the typos are**Hopefully you can still determine the function I am trying to write**

The Attempt at a Solution



So, I can see this isn't solvable by just plugging in the co-ords as the sine function will not be valid. I can't separate them as the Sine function isn't continuous due to Tan (xy) being in the denominator. I can't fix x or y or substitute a function for y = g(x).

I can't see a way forward or another example that would give me the direction I'm lacking.

Any pointers guys??
The function, [itex]\displaystyle f(x,\,y)= \sqrt{x^2+y^2}\sin(\frac{1}{\tan(xy)})[/itex] is a mess near (0, 0).


Perhaps the problem is: find [itex]\displaystyle \lim_{(x,y)\to(0,0)}\sqrt{x^2+y^2}\sin(\tan^{-1}(xy))\ ?[/itex]
 
  • #7
No the original equation is correct. Definately not arctan!
 
  • #8
Like I said, what do you know about |sin(x)| for any x.
 
  • #9
petertheta said:
No the original equation is correct. Definitely not arctan!
OK.

Putting arctan in there would make the problem uninteresting .

Zondrina has the right approach anyway .
 
  • #10
The only thing i can say about it is its always positive... not sure how that helps as it's not the modulus in the equation and1/ tan(xy) will alwys be undefined at (0,0)?
 
  • #11
petertheta said:
The only thing i can say about it is its always positive... not sure how that helps as it's not the modulus in the equation and1/ tan(xy) will alwys be undefined at (0,0)?

That's not it. Think about the graph of sin(x). How does it relate to |sin(x)|?
 
  • #12
petertheta said:
The only thing i can say about it is its always positive... not sure how that helps as it's not the modulus in the equation and1/ tan(xy) will alwys be undefined at (0,0)?
What is the range of sin(x) ?
 
  • #13
the range for sin(x) is [-1,1] and for the modulus is [0,1].

Could you be a bit more explicit with where to go with this. How do you deal with the tangent in the denominator with this?
 
  • #14
petertheta said:
the range for sin(x) is [-1,1] and for the modulus is [0,1].

Could you be a bit more explicit with where to go with this. How do you deal with the tangent in the denominator with this?

Exactly, the range of sin(x) is the interval [-1,1]. Now what does this tell you about |sin(x)|??
 
  • #15
I'm sorry I just don't know other that its interval is [0,1]...?
 
  • #16
Do you understand that |x| < 1 implies that -1 < x < 1?

Apply this concept to |sin(x)|
 
  • #17
Yes, I understand the inequalities you mention but I have not been taught how to manipulate the original question using this method.

Thanks for your help though. I'll try to catch one of my tutors or classmates to help explain.

P.
 

FAQ: Limits: Evaluating function of 2-variables where a limit doesn't exist

What is a limit in the context of evaluating a function of 2 variables?

A limit is a mathematical concept that represents the behavior of a function as its input values approach a specific point. In the context of evaluating a function of 2 variables, it refers to the value that the function approaches as the two input variables get closer and closer to a given point.

Why is it important to determine if a limit exists for a function of 2 variables?

Determining if a limit exists for a function of 2 variables is important because it allows us to understand the behavior of the function at a specific point. It can also help us to identify any discontinuities or singularities in the function, which can have significant implications in real-world applications.

What are some methods for evaluating limits of functions of 2 variables?

There are several methods for evaluating limits of functions of 2 variables, including algebraic manipulation, graphing, and using the properties of limits. In some cases, it may also be necessary to use more advanced techniques such as L'Hôpital's rule.

What does it mean if a limit does not exist for a function of 2 variables?

If a limit does not exist for a function of 2 variables, it means that the value of the function does not approach a specific value as the input variables get closer and closer to a given point. This could be due to a discontinuity, a singularity, or the function oscillating between different values.

How can we determine if a limit does not exist for a function of 2 variables?

To determine if a limit does not exist for a function of 2 variables, we can use various techniques such as graphing, algebraic manipulation, and the properties of limits. We can also look for any discontinuities or singularities in the function, as these can often indicate that a limit does not exist.

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