Calculus Volume 1

150

Chapter 2 | Limits

Finding a Vertical Asymptote

Evaluate each of the following limits using Infinite Limits from Positive Integers . Identify any vertical asymptotes of the function f ( x ) =1/( x +3) 4 .

1 ( x +3) 4 1 ( x +3) 4

lim x →−3 −

a.

lim x →−3 +

b.

1 ( x +3) 4

lim x →−3

c.

Solution We can use Infinite Limits from Positive Integers directly. a. lim x →−3 − 1 ( x +3) 4 =+∞ b. lim x →−3 + 1 ( x +3) 4 =+∞ c. lim x →−3 1 ( x +3) 4 =+∞ The function f ( x ) =1/( x +3) 4 has a vertical asymptote of x =−3.

2.9

Evaluate each of the following limits. Identify any vertical asymptotes of the function f ( x ) = 1 ( x −2) 3 .

1 ( x −2) 3 1 ( x −2) 3

lim x →2 −

a.

lim x →2 +

b.

1 ( x −2) 3

c. lim x →2

In the next example we put our knowledge of various types of limits to use to analyze the behavior of a function at several different points. Example 2.11 Behavior of a Function at Different Points

Use the graph of f ( x ) in Figure 2.21 to determine each of the following values: a. lim x →−4 − f ( x ); lim x →−4 + f ( x ); lim x →−4 f ( x ); f (−4)

This OpenStax book is available for free at http://cnx.org/content/col11964/1.12

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online