Why is this valid? Continuity of Functions Problem

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In summary, the "Continuity of Functions Problem" explores the conditions under which a function is considered continuous. It addresses the importance of limits, the behavior of functions at points of interest, and the implications of continuity in mathematical analysis. The discussion emphasizes the criteria for continuity, such as the necessity for a function to be defined at a point, the limit of the function at that point to exist, and for the function's value to equal the limit. Understanding these concepts is crucial for analyzing the behavior of functions within calculus and real analysis.
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tellmesomething
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Homework Statement
If ##f(x)## is continuous and ##f(\frac{9}{2})=\frac{2}{9}## then the value of ##\lim{x\to 0}f(\frac{1-cos3x}{x²})##is?
Relevant Equations
None
I was unsure how to bring the output expression. We can assume f(x) to be f(y) for simplicity. So ##y=\frac{1-cos3x}{x²}## which is alright. Next I thought to take the limit of this expression but im unsure if my reasoning is correct.

Since the functional value is continuous so the part of the graph in the neighborhood of f(y) for the corresponding value of y (I.e limiting value of f(y)) will be equal to the actual value of f(y).
This must imply that the neighborhood of y must be in the domain of the function and hence could say that the limiting value of y=y itself..
Do I make any sense?
 
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  • #2
tellmesomething said:
Homework Statement: If ##f(x)## is continuous and ##f(\frac{9}{2})=\frac{2}{9}## then the value of ##\lim{x\to 0}f(\frac{1-cos3x}{x²})##is?
Relevant Equations: None

I was unsure how to bring the output expression. We can assume f(x) to be f(y) for simplicity. So ##y=\frac{1-cos3x}{x²}## which is alright. Next I thought to take the limit of this expression but im unsure if my reasoning is correct.

Since the functional value is continuous so the part of the graph in the neighborhood of f(y) for the corresponding value of y (I.e limiting value of f(y)) will be equal to the actual value of f(y).
This must imply that the neighborhood of y must be in the domain of the function and hence could say that the limiting value of y=y itself..
Do I make any sense?
This: ##f(\frac{9}{2})=\frac{2}{9}## will only help if ##\lim \limits_{x\to 0}\frac{1-cos3x}{x²}## is ## \frac{9}{2}##. Can you continue from there?
 
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FactChecker said:
This: ##f(\frac{9}{2})=\frac{2}{9}## will only help if ##\lim \limits_{x\to 0}\frac{1-cos3x}{x²}## is ## \frac{9}{2}##. Can you continue from there?
I understand that. But I want to know if ## \lim\limits_{x\to 0} f( \frac{1-cos3x}{x²})=f(\lim\limits_{x\to 0}\frac{1-cos3x}{x²})## and if so why? And where would it not be equal.
 
  • #4
tellmesomething said:
I understand that. But I want to know if ## \lim\limits_{x\to 0} f( \frac{1-cos3x}{x²})=f(\lim\limits_{x\to 0}\frac{1-cos3x}{x²})## and if so why? And where would it not be equal.
See, for example: https://www.people.vcu.edu/~rhammack/Math200/Text/Chapter11.pdf
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FAQ: Why is this valid? Continuity of Functions Problem

What is the continuity of a function?

Continuity of a function at a point means that the function does not have any jumps, breaks, or holes at that point. Formally, a function f(x) is continuous at a point c if the following three conditions are satisfied: f(c) is defined, the limit of f(x) as x approaches c exists, and the limit equals f(c).

Why is continuity important in mathematics?

Continuity is crucial in mathematics because it ensures that small changes in the input of a function result in small changes in the output. This property is fundamental in calculus, particularly in the study of limits, derivatives, and integrals, and it is essential for the application of many theorems and concepts in analysis.

How can we determine if a function is continuous?

To determine if a function is continuous at a point, we need to check the three conditions of continuity: first, ensure that the function is defined at that point; second, calculate the limit of the function as it approaches that point; and finally, verify that this limit equals the function's value at that point.

What are common examples of discontinuous functions?

Common examples of discontinuous functions include piecewise functions that have different definitions in different intervals, functions with removable discontinuities (like f(x) = (x^2 - 1)/(x - 1) at x = 1), and functions with infinite discontinuities (like f(x) = 1/x at x = 0). Each of these exhibits breaks or undefined points in their graphs.

What is the significance of the Intermediate Value Theorem in relation to continuity?

The Intermediate Value Theorem states that if a function is continuous on a closed interval [a, b], then it takes on every value between f(a) and f(b). This theorem is significant because it guarantees the existence of roots or solutions within the interval, which is a powerful tool in solving equations and understanding the behavior of continuous functions.

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