2 LIMITS & CONTINUITY

OVERVIEW
“Nobody is perfect” as what we always say. We have our own strengths, but also do have our own weaknesses and
limitations. We commit mistakes at times. But as God’s creation, we continuously strive for protection. We all strive to act as children of
God. We all strive to reach for the kingdom of God.
The concept of limit is the fundamental kingdom of Calculus. This concept links the gap between Algebra and Calculus.
Limit of function is the intended height of a function. It describes the behavior of the function at a specific value of x, which is
the independent variable.
Take a look at the graph below.
The graph is actually a graph of a linear function. Notice on the graph that
at a value of x=a, the graph reaches a certain point. Also, at x=b, the graph reaches
a certain height, which is actually higher than at x=a (Marcelo, Gladys Glo H, Basic
Calculus)
x=b

This module contains the different Limit theorems, the different techniques in
x=a
evaluating limits of functions, and the concept of continuity.

a b

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
At the end of this module, you should be able to:
1. define limit;
2. solve for limits of the given functions by applying the different Limit Theorems;
3. identify the different evaluating techniques to evaluate limits of functions;
4. evaluate one-sided limits;
5. evaluate limits of functions at infinity and limits of sequences; and
6. state the conditions for a function to be considered as continuous at a value of x.

1. DEFINITION OF LIMIT
1

Let f (x) be a function of x and let a be constant. If there is a number L such that, in order to make the value of f (x) as
close to L as may be desired, it is sufficient to choose x close enough to a, but different from a , then we say that the limit of f(x), as x
approaches a, is L.
Mathematically, we say
lim f ( x )=L
x→ a
if for every positive number ε (no matter how small) there exists a number δ such that in order to make
|f ( x ) −L|<ε
it is true that x satisfy
|x−a|<δ x ≠ a .

lim f ( x )=L which is read “the limit of f(x), as x approaches a, is L”.

x→ a
The same idea is to conveyed by writing:
As x → a , f ( x ) → L read “as x approaches a, f(x) approaches L”.

Example # 1: Finding a Rectangle of Maximum Area

You are given 24 inches of wire and are asked to form a rectangle whose area is as large as possible. What
dimensions should the rectangle have?
Solution: Let: w = width of the rectangle
l = length of the rectangle
because

ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus

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 2w + 2l = 24 Formula for Perimeter of Rectangle(Given the perimeter= 24)
2(w + l) = 24
l = 12 – w
as shown in Figure 1, So, the area of the rectangle is
A = (l)(w) Formula for Area of Rectangle
= (12 – w)(w) Substitute 12 – w for l.
= 12w – w2 Simplify

l = 12 - w

Figure 1
Using this model for area, you can experiment with different values of w to see how to obtain the maximum
area. After trying several values, it appears that the maximum area occurs when
w = 6.
as shown in the table:
Width,
5.0 5.5 5.9 6.0 6.1 6.5 7.0
w
Area, A 35.00 35.75 35.99 36.00 35.99 35.75 35.00
In limit terminology, you can say that “the limit of A as w approaches 6 is 36.” This is written as
lim A=lim (12 w−w2)=36
w→6 w→ 6

Example # 2: Estimating a Limit Numerically

Use a table to estimate the limit numerically.
lim (3 x−2)
x →2
Solution: Let f(x) = 3x -2. Then construct a table that shows values of f(x) for two sets of x-values – one set that
approaches 2 from the left and one that approaches 2 from the right.
x 1.9 1.99 1.999 2.0 2.001 2.01 2.1
f(x
3.700 3.970 3.997 ? 4.003 4.030 4.300
)
From the table, it appears that the closer gets to 2, the closer (2,4)
gets to 4. So, you can estimate the limit to be 4. Figure 2 adds
further support to this conclusion.

LEARNING TASK # 1: Estimating a Limit Numerically

Use a table to estimate the limit numerically.
x
lim
x →0 √ x+ 1−1
1. LIMITS THAT FAIL TO EXIST
2
In the examples, you will examine some limits that fail to exist

Example # 1: Comparing Left and Right Behavior

Show that the limit does not exist
lim ¿ x ∨ ¿ ¿
x →0 x
Solution: Consider the graph of the function given by f(x) = |x|/x. In figure below, you can see that the positive x-values
¿ x∨ ¿ =1 , x> 0 ¿
x
and for negative values
¿ x∨ ¿ =1 , x< 0 ¿
x
This means that no matter how close x gets to 0, there will be both positive
and negative x-values that yield
f ( x )=1∧f ( x )=−1
It implies that the limit does not exist.

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 Example # 2: Unbounded Behavior
Discuss the existence of the limit.
lim 1
x→0
2
x
Solution: Let f(x) = 1/x2. In Figure 11.8, note that as approaches 0 from either the right or the
left, f(x) increases without bound. This means that by choosing x close enough to 0,
you can force f(x) to be as large as you want. For instance, f(x) will be larger than
100 when you choose that is within of 0. That is,
0<| x|< 1 / 10 → f ( x )=1 / x2 >100.
Similarly, you can force f(x) to be larger than 1,000,000, as follows:
0<| x|< 1 / 1000→ f ( x )=1 / x2 >1,000,000.
Because f(x) is not approaching a unique real number L as x approaches 0, you can
conclude that the limit does not exist.

Example # 3: Oscillating Behavior

Discuss the existence of the limit.
1
lim sin
x →0 x
Solution: Let f(x) = sin (1/x). In Figure 11.9, you can see that as x approaches 0, f(x) oscillates
between -1 and 1.

So, the limit does not exist because no matter how close you are to 0, it is possible to
Choose values of x1 and x2 such that
1 1
sin =1∧sin =−1
x1 x2
as indicated in the table.
x 2/ π 2/3 π 2/5 π 2/7 π 2/9 π 2/11 π x→0
1
sin 1 -1 1 -1 1 -1 Limit does not exist
x
Examples 1, 2, and 3 show three of the most common types of behavior associated with the nonexistence of a limit.

CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH LIMITS DO NOT EXIST

The limit of f(x) as x → c as does not exist under any of the following conditions.
1. f(x) approaches a different number from the right side of than it approaches from the left side of c. Example 1
2. f(x) increases or decreases without bound as approaches c. Example 2
3. f(x) oscillates between two fixed values as x approaches c. Example 3

LEARNING TASK # 2:
Show that the limit (if it exists or not). If the limit doesnot exist, explain why.
lim ¿ x+ 2∨ ¿ ¿
x→−2 x +2

1. THEOREMS ON LIMITS
3
The following theorems on limits which we shall need:

The Limit of a Constant Theorem Remember:

The limit of a constant as x approaches to any constant is always
lim c=c equal to the given constant.
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1-Differential
x→ a Calculus
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 Illustrative Examples:

1. lim −2=−2
x →5
3 3
2. lim =
x→ 1/ 2 5 5
3. lim 4.25=4.25
x→ 1.5

4. lim π=π
x→ 1.5

LEARNING TASK # 3: Evaluate the limit.

lim 3 π
x →2

The Limit of a Function x REMEMBER:

The limit of the function x as x approaches to any constant is
Definition. lim x =a always equal to the constant.
x→ a

Illustrative Examples:

1. lim x =5
x →5
1
2. lim x=
x→ 1/ 2 2
3. lim x=1.5
x→ 1.5

4. lim x=π
x→ π

LEARNING TASK # 4: Evaluate the limit.

lim y
y →2 π

REMEMBER: In evaluating the Limit of a constant and a Function, the

The Limit of a Constant and a Function f(x) following steps can be followed:
1. Express the limit as a product of a constant and the limit of a function x.
Definition. lim cf (x )=c lim f ( x) 2. Find the limit of the function x based on the given value for x.
x→ a x→a
3. Simplify.

Illustrative Examples:

1. lim −2 x= (−2 ) lim x=(−2 ) ( 3 )=−6

x →3 x →3

2. lim 4 x=¿ 4 lim x=( 4 ) (−3 )=−12¿

x→−3 x→−3

3. lim 5 x=5 lim x=( 5 )

x→
1
10
x→
1
10
( 101 )= 12
LEARNING TASK # 5: Evaluate the limit.
1
lim
x→−20 2 x

REMEMBER: In evaluating the Limit of Sum/Difference of Functions,

the following steps can be followed:
The Limit of Sum and Difference of Functions 1. Express the limit as sum or difference of functions depending on
ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus the number of terms.
Page 4
Definition. lim [f (x )¿± g ( x)]=lim f ( x)± lim g(2.x )¿Apply the previously discussed limit theorems in finding the limit
x→ a x→a x →a
of each term.
3. Simplify.
 Illustrative Examples:

1. lim x+ 4 ¿ lim x+ lim 4=(−3 ) + 4=1

x→−3 x →−3 x →−3
2. ¿ lim 3 x− lim 2 ¿ 3 (−3 ) +2=−7
x →−3 x →−3
lim 3 x−2
x→−3
3. ¿ lim −3 x− lim 2 ¿−3 (−3 ) +2 = 11
x →−3 x →−3
lim −3 x−2
x→−3

LEARNING TASK # 6: Evaluate the limit.

lim −5 x−3
x→ 1/ 2

REMEMBER: In evaluating the Limit of Products of Functions, the following

steps can be followed:
The Limit of Product of Functions 1. Express the limit in expanded form by applying the Limit of Products
Theorem.
Definition. lim [f (x )¿∙ g (x)]=lim f ( x)∙ lim g(x)
2. ¿Apply the previously discussed limit theorems in evaluating the limit of
x→ a x→a x →a
each function.
3. Simplify.

Illustrative Examples:
1. lim (2 x)(3) ¿ 2 lim x ∙ lim 3 ¿ 2 ( 1 )+3=5
x →1 x→ 1 x →1
2. ¿ ¿ ¿ [ (−3 ) +5 ] [2 (−3 ) +1] ¿−10
lim ( x+ 5 ) (2 x +1)
x→−3

3. lim (x +2)(−2) ¿( lim x + lim 2) ¿ ¿(−1+ 2)(2)=2

x→−1 x →−1 x →−1

LEARNING TASK # 7: Evaluate the limit.

lim (13 x−2)(x+1)
x →7

The Limit of Quotient of Functions REMEMBER: In evaluating the Limit of Quotient of Functions, the following steps can
be followed:
lim f ( x ) 1. Express the limit in expanded form by applying the Limit of Quotients Theorem.
f ( x ) x →a 2. Apply the previously discussed limit theorems in evaluating the limit of each
Definition. lim = ,
lim g ( x) function.
x→ a g ( x )
x →a 3. Simplify.

Illustrative Examples:
lim x
x x →−6 −6
1. lim = = =−3
x→−6 3 lim 2 2
x→−6
2 lim x
2x 2(2) 4
2. lim = x→ 2 = =
x →2 3 lim 2 2 3
x →2
lim x +lim 5
x +5 1+5
= x→ 1 x →1
3. lim = =6
x →1 3 x−2 3 lim x−lim 2 3 ( 1 )−2
x→1 x →1

LEARNING TASK # 8: Evaluate the limit.

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 x +√ 2
lim
x →2 2

The Limit of Power of Functions

Definition. lim ¿¿
x→ a

Illustrative Examples

1. lim x 3 ¿ ¿ ¿ 23 = 8
x →2
2. ¿3¿ ¿3¿
3 2
lim 3 x + 9 x
x→−2

LEARNING TASK # 9: Evaluate the limit.

lim x−5
−1
x→
2

The Limit of Root of Functions

n
Definition. lim √ f ( x ) =√n lim f (x), provided that lim f (x )> 0 when n is even.
x→ a x→a

Illustrative Examples:

1. lim √ x= lim x=√ 8= √ 4 ∙2=2 √2

√
x →8 x →8
3
2. lim 3 x √ x=3 lim x ∙ lim √3 x=3 ( 27 ) ∙ √3 27=81 (3 )=243
x→ 27 x →27 x→ 27

LEARNING TASK # 10: Evaluate the limit.

lim √ 3 x 2−2 x+ 8
x →2

Substitution Theorem
Definition. If function f is a polynomial function or a rational function, REMEMBER: In evaluating the Limit of functions
by Substitution Theorem, apply the ff. steps,
then 1. Substitute all x’s by the given value.
lim f ( x )=lim f ( k) 2. Simplify by applying the PEMDAS rule.
x→ a x→ a

Provided that in case of rational functions, the value of the denominator at k is not equal to zero.

Illustrative Examples:

1. Evaluate the lim 3 x 4 −2 x2 +10 x−1

x →2
Substituting all values of x by 2, then
lim 3 x 4 −2 x2 +10 x−1=3 ¿ ¿
x →2
Simplify by applying PEMDAS rule,
lim 3 x 4 −2 x2 +10 x−1=3 ¿ ¿
x →2
2
2. Find the lim 4 x −5 x−10
x →1
Substituting all values of x by 1, then
lim 4 x 2−5 x−10=4 ¿
x →1

3. Evaluate the lim 3 x2−2 x +5

x→ 1/ 3
Substitute all value of x by 1/3, then
lim 3 x2−2 x +5 ¿3¿
x→ 1/ 3

¿3 ( 19 )− 23 +5
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 1−2+15
¿
3
14
¿
3

LEARNING TASK # 11: Evaluate the limit.

2 x 2+ 3 x +1
lim
x→−1 x−1

1. TECHNIQUES FOR EVALUATING LIMITS

4
In lesson 1.2, you studied several types of functions whose limits can be evaluated by direct substitution. In this lesson, you
will study several techniques for evaluating limits of functions for which direct substitution fails. That is, when the limit becomes
undefined upon substituting the given value for x.

Illustrative Examples:
x 2 +3 x−10
1. Evaluate the lim
x→−5 x+ 5
Using the Substitution Theorem,
x 2 +3 x−10 (−5)2 +3 (−5 )−10
lim ¿
x→−5 x+ 5 −5+5
25−15−10
¿
0
0
¿
0
¿∝
Notice that using the substitution method upon simplifying, the limit of the given function is undefined. It means that there is no
existing limit.
By using a table, however, it appears that the limit of the function as x approaches -5 is -7
-
x -5.01 -5.001 -5 -4.9999 -4.999 -4.99
5.0001
x2 +3 x−10 -7.01 -7.001
-
? -6.999 -6.999 -6.99
x +5 7.0001

1. FACTORING METHOD or DIVIDING OUT TECHNIQUE

If we are going to observe the numerator, it is factorable.
By factoring the numerator,
x 2 +3 x−10 (x +5)( x−2)
lim will become lim
x→−5 x+ 5 x→−5 x +5
Canceling the common factor x+5, the given limit will now become,
lim x−2
x→−5
Simplify by applying the substitution theorem
lim x−2=−5−2=−7
x→−5

REMEMBER:
 FACTORING METHOD or DIVIDING OUT TECHNIQUE should be applied only when:
1. The limit of the given rational function is undefined or produces 0 in both the numerator and the denominator.
An expression such as 0/0 has no meaning as a real number and is called an “indeterminate form” because
you c]annot, from the form alone, determine the limit.
2. Either the numerator or denominator of the rational function is factorable.

ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential
The following Calculus
steps can be applied in evaluating the limits of functions using Factoring Method.
Page 7 1. Factor either the numerator or denominator of the given rational function.
2. Cancel the common factor.
3. Apply the Substitution Theorem
4. Simplify.
 LEARNING TASK # 12: Evaluate the limit.
x 2 + x−6
lim
x→−3 x +3
2. CONJUGATION METHOD OR RATIONALIZING TECHNIQUE
Another way to find the limits of some functions is first to rationalize the numerator of the function. This is called the
rationalizing technique. Recall that rationalizing the numerator means multiplying the numerator and denominator by the conjugate of
the numerator.
Conjugation is a process of simplifying rational expressions which contains radicals on the denominator.
For instance, we are given the expression below and we are asked to simplify,
4
5+ √ 3
First, we get the conjugate of the denominator and multiply it to both the numerator and the denominator of the fraction.
Second, to get the conjugate, just copy the first ad second terms on the denominator and change the sign In between. That is
5−√ 3 , So, we have
4 5−√ 3 20−4 √3 20−4 √ 3
∙ = =
5+ √ 3 5−√ 3 25−3 22
The question is, when are we going to apply conjugation in evaluating limits of functions?
Illustrative Examples:
x−25
1. Find lim
x→ 25 √ x−5
By substitution,
x−25 25−25 0
lim = = =∝
x→ 25 √ x−5 √ 25−5 0
Before taking the limit, multiply the conjugate of the denominator both numerator and denominator and simplify,
x −25 √ x+ 5 ( x−25 ) ( √ x +5 )
∙ = =√ x+5
√ x−5 √ x+ 5 x−25
Take the limit of √ x+5
lim √ x +5=√ 25+ 5=10
x→ 25

11−√ x
2. Find lim
x→ 121 121−x
Again, if we are going to apply using substitution theorem, the limit is undefined. We need to conjugate first before taking the
limit.
11− √ x 11+ √ x 121−x 1
∙ = =
121−x 11+ √ x ( 121−x ) ( 11+ √ x ) 11+ √ x
1 1 1
lim = =
x→ 121 11+ √ x 11+ √ 121 22

REMEMBER:
 Conjugation Method or Rationalizing Technique is used when:
1. the limit of the given rational function is undefined; and
2. either the numerator or denominator of the rational function is composed of radicals.

In evaluating limits of functions:

1. get the conjugate of the radical,
2. multiply the conjugate to the numerator and denominator of the given rational function,
3. cancel the common factors existing in the numerator and denominator,
4. apply the Substitution Theorem in order to get the limit of the result in step 3, and
5. Simplify.

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 LEARNING TASK # 13: Evaluate the limit.

lim √ x+ 1−1
x →0 x

1. ONE-SIDED LIMITS
5
In Lesson 1.3, you saw that one way in which a limit can fail to exist is when a function approaches a different value from the
left side of c than it approaches from the right side of c. This type of behavior can be described more concisely with the concept of a
one-sided limit. We begin by expanding the notion of limit to include what are called one-sided limits, where x approaches a only
from one side — the right or the left. The terminology and notation is:.

right hand limit lim ¿ x comes from the right, x > c

+¿ +¿
x→ c f (x)= L2∨f (x)→ L2 as x→ c ¿¿

left-hand limit lim ¿ x comes from the left, x < c

−¿ –
x→ c f (x)=L 1∨f (x)→ L1 as x→ c ¿

Example # 1: Evaluating One-Sided Limits

Find the limit as x → 0 from the left and the limit as x → 0 from the right for

f (x)=¿ 2 x∨ ¿ ¿
x
Solution: From the graph of f, shown below, you can see that f(x) = -2 for all x < 0.

So, the limit from the left is

lim ¿
Limit from the left
x→ 0 ¿2 x∨ ¿ =−2 ¿ ¿
−¿
x
Because f(x) = 2 for all x > 0, the limit from the right is
lim ¿
Limit for the right
x→ 0 ¿2 x∨ ¿ =2 ¿¿
+¿
x

Note that the function approaches different limits from the left and from the right. In such cases, the limit of as does
not exist. For the limit of a function to exist as it must be true that both one-sided limits exist and are equal.

EXISTENCE OF A LIMIT
If is a function and are real numbers, then
lim f (x )=L
x →c
if and only if both the left and right limits exist and are equal to L.

Example # 2: Finding One-Sided Limits

Find the limit of f(x) as x approaches 1.
4−x , x< 1
f (x)= { 4 x−x 2 , x> 1 }
Solution: Remember that you are concerned about the value of near x = 1 rather than at x = 1. So, for x < 1, f(x) is given
by 4- x, and you can use direct substitution to obtain
lim ¿
−¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) =¿ lim ¿¿¿ =4–1=3
−¿
x →1 (4−x )¿

For x > 1, f(x) is given by 4x – x2, and you can use direct substitution to obtain
lim ¿
+¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) =¿ lim ¿ ¿¿
+¿ 2 2
x→1 ( 4 x−x )=4 ( 1)−1 =3 ¿

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 Because the one-sided limits both exist and are equal to 3, it follows that
lim f ( x )=¿ 3 ¿
x →1
The graph in Fig. confirms this conclusion

Examples # 3:
Since we use limits informally, the examples below will be enough to indicate the usefulness of the one-sided
limits

Ex. 3.1 Ex. 3.2 Ex. 3.3 Ex. 3.4

lim ¿
Ex. 3.1. x→ 1−¿ √1− x2=0 lim ¿¿ ¿
2
x →1
+¿
√ 1−x =0

(As the figure shows, at the two endpoints of the domain, we only have a one-sided limit.)

Ex. 3.2. Set f (x)= {−11 , , x <0

x >0 } Then x→ 0−¿ f (x)=−1
lim
lim
+¿
x →0 f ( x)=1
¿¿ ¿
¿

lim ¿
Ex. 3.3. x→ 0+¿ 1 =∞ lim ¿ ¿¿
x x →0
−¿ 1
=−∞
x

lim ¿
Ex. 3.4. x→ 0+¿ 1 =∞ lim ¿¿¿
2
x x →0
−¿ 1
=∞
2
x

The relationship between the one-sided limits and the usual (two-sided) limit is given by:
lim f ( x )=L ↔ −¿
lim ¿¿
x→ a x→ a f (x)= L∧ lim ¿¿
x →a +¿ f( x)=L

In words, the (two-sided) limit exists if and only if both one-sided limits exist and are equal. This shows fo example that in Ex.

3.2 and 3.3 above, lim f (x ) does not exist.

x →0

Students often carelessly that lim 1/x=∞ , but this is not sloppy, it is simply wrong, as the picture for Ex. 3.3 shows. By
x →0

1
contrast, lim =∞ is correct and acceptable terminology.
x →0 x2

LEARNING TASK # 14: Evaluate the limit.

To ship a package overnight, a delivery service charges $17.80 for the first pound and $1.40 for each addition
additional pound or portion of a pound. Let x represent the weight of a package and let f(x) represent the shipping
cost. Show that the limit of f(x) as x → 2 does not exist.
17.80 , 0< x ≤ 1
{
f (x)= 19.20 , 1< x ≤ 2
20.60 , 2< x ≤ 3 }
1. A LIMIT FROM CALCULUS

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 6
In the next module, you will study an important type of limit from calculus – the limit of a difference quotient.

Example # 1: Evaluating a Limit from Calculus

f (3+h)−f (3)
For the function given by f (x)= x2−1, find lim
h→ 0 h
Solution: Direct substitution produces an indeterminate form:
f (3+h)−f (3) [(3+h)2−1]−[32−1]
lim = lim
h→ 0 h h→ 0 h
2
= lim
9+ 6 h+h −1−9+1
h→ 0 h
2
= lim
6 h+ h
h→ 0 h
0
¿
0
By factoring and dividing out, you obtain the following
f (3+h)−f (3) 6 h+ h2
lim ¿ lim
h→ 0 h h→0 h
h(6+h)
¿ lim
h→0 h
= lim (6+ h)
h→ 0
=6+0
=6
LEARNING TASK # 15: Evaluate the limit.
f ( x+ h)−f (x)
Find lim of f(x) = x2 - 3x
h→ 0 h

1. LIMITS AT INFINITY AND LIMITS OF SEQUENCES

6

1.6.1 LIMITS AT INFINITY AND HORIZONTAL ASYMPTOTES

Definition of Limits at Infinity

If f is a function and L1 and L2 are real numbers, then the statements
lim f ( x)=L1 Limit as x approaches - ∞
x→−∞
and
lim f (x)=L2 Limit as x approaches ∞
x→ ∞
denote the limits at infinity. The first statement is read “the limit of f(x) as x approaches -∞ is L1.” and the second is

Limits at Infinity
If r is a positive real number, then
1
lim =0 Limit toward the right
x→ ∞ xr
Furthermore, if x r is defined when x < 0, then
1
lim r =0 Limit toward the left
x→−∞ x

Limits at Infinity for Rational Functions

Consider the rational function
N (x )
f (x)=
D(x )
where
N ( x )=a n x n +...+ a0∧D ( x)=bm x m+...+ b0
The limit of f(x) as x approaches positive or negative infinity is as follows.
0 , n<m
lim f ( x )=¿ { an ¿
x→ ±∞ , n=m
bm
ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus
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 Example 1
Find the limit.
3
lim (4− )
x→ ∞ x2
Solution Algebraic Solution: Graphical Solution
3 ¿ lim 4−3¿ ¿ Use a graphing utility
lim (4− 2 ) x → ∞ 3
x→ ∞ x y=4−
= 4 – 3(0) x2
=4
So, the limit of:
3
f (x)=4−
x2

as x approaches ∞ is 4.
From the figure, you can estimate the limit to be 4.
Note that the line y= 4 is a horizontal asymptote to the
right.

In figure above, it appears that the line

y=4
is also a horizontal asymptote to the left. You can verify this by showing that
3
lim (4− )=4
x→−∞ x2
The graph of a rational function need not have a horizontal asymptote. When it does, however, its left and right asymptotes must be the
same. When evaluating limits at infinity for more complicated rational functions, divide the numerator and denominator by the highest-
powered term in the denominator. This enables you to evaluate each limit using the limits at infinity.

Example 2 Comparing Limits at Infinity

Find the limit as x approaches ∞ for each function.
−2 x+3 −2 x 2 +3
a . f ( x )= b . f ( x )=
3 x 2 +1 3 x 2 +1
Solution: In each case, begin by dividing both the numerator and denominator by x 2 the highest-powered term in the
denominator.
−2 3
+
−2 x +3 x x 2 −0+0
a. lim 2
= lim = =0
x→ ∞ 3 x +1 x →∞ 1 3+0
3+ 2
x
3
2
−2+ 2
−2 x +3 x −2+ 0 2
b. lim 2
= lim = =
x→ ∞ 3 x +1 x→ ∞ 1 3+ 0 3
3+ 2
x
3
3
−2 x+ 2
−2 x +3 x
c. lim 2
= lim .
x→ ∞ 3 x +1 x →∞ 1
3+ 2
x
In this case, you can conclude that the limit does not exist because the numerator decreases without bound as
the denominator approaches 3.

In the examples above, observe that:

 When the degree of the numerator is less than the degree of the denominator, as in part (a), the limit is 0.
 When the degrees of the numerator and denominator are equal, as in part (b), the limit is the ratio of the
coefficients of the highest-powered terms.
 When the degree of the numerator is greater than the degree of the denominator, as in part (c), the limit
does not exist.
This result seems reasonable when you realize that for large values of the highest-powered term of a
polynomial is the most “influential” term. That is, a polynomial tends to behave as its highest-powered term
behaves as approaches positive or negative infinity

ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus

Page 12
 LEARNING TASK # 16: Evaluating a Limit at Infinity.
Find the limit (if it exists). If the limit does not exist, explain why Use a graphing utility to verify your result
graphically.
3
lim
x→ ∞ x2

1.6.1 LIMITS OF SEQUENCES

Limits of sequences have many of the same properties as limits of functions. For instance, consider the sequence whose nth
n
term is a n=1/2 .
½, ¼, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, …
As n increases without bound, the terms of this sequence get closer and closer to 0, and the sequence is said to converge to
0. Using limit notation, you can write
1
lim n
=0
n→∞ 2
The following relationship shows how limits of functions of can be used to evaluate the limit of a sequence.

Limits at a Sequence
Let L be a real number. Let f be a function of a real variable such that lim f ( x )=L
n→∞
If {an } is a sequence such that
f (n)=a n
for every positive integer n, then lim an =L
n→∞

A sequence that does not converge is said to diverge. For instance, the sequence 1, -1, 1, -1, 1, ….diverges because it does
not approach a unique number.

Example 1 Finding the Limit of a Sequence

Find the limit of each sequence. (Assume n begins with 1.
2 n+1
a . an =
n+4
2 n+1
b . bn = 2
n +4
2 n2 +1
c . c n=
4 n2
Solution: 2 n+1
a . lim =2 3/5 , 5/6 , 7/7 , 9/8 , 11/ 9 , 13/10 ,... → 2
n →∞ n+4
2 n+1
b . lim 2 =0 3 / 5 ,5 / 8.7 / 13 , 9 / 20 , 11 / 29.13 / 40 , … →0
n →∞ n + 4

2 n2 + 1
c . lim 2
=1/2 3/ 4 , 9/16 , 19/36 , 33/64 , 51/100 ,73 /144 ,... →1 /2
n→∞ 4 n

Example 2 Finding the Limit of a Sequence

Find the limit of the sequence whose nth term is
8 n(n+ 1)(2 n+1)
a n= [ ]
n3 6

Solution Algebraic Solution Numerical Solution

: Begin by writing the nth term in standard rational function form – Enter the sequence
as the ratio of two polynomials.
8 n ( n+1 ) ( 2n+ 1 )
a n= 3
8
[ n ( n+1 )
6
( 2n+ 1
]
)
Write original nthterm
a n =
n3 [ 6 ]
n into a graphing utility and create a table. (Be sure
8 ( n ) ( n+1 )( 2 n+1 ) 3 2
8 n +12 n +4 n the graphing utility is set to sequence mode.)
¿ Multiply fraction= Write∈standard rational form .
6 n3 3 n3
From this form, you can see that the degree of the numerator is
equal to the degree of the denominator. So, the limit of the

ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus

Page 13
 sequence is the ratio of the coefficients of the highest-powered
terms.
8 n3+ 12n 2+ 4 n 8
lim =
n→∞ 3 n3 3

From the figure above, you can estimate that as n

approaches ∞, an gets closer and closer to 2.667
≈ 8/3.

LEARNING TASK # 17: Evaluate the limit of a sequence

Write the first five terms of the sequence and find the limit of the sequence (if it exists). If the limit does not exist,
explain why. Assume n begins with 1.
n+1
a n=
n2+ 1

1. CONTINUITY
6
To understand continuity, it helps to see how a function can fail to be continuous. All of the important functions used in
calculus and analysis are continuous except at isolated points. Such points are called points of discontinuity.

Definition. A function f is continuous at x = x if it satisfies the following condition:

1. lim f ( x ) ∃ ;
x →c
2. f ( c ) ∃; and
3. lim f ( x )=f (c)
x →c
Thus, if c is a point of discontinuity, something about the limit in statement in (3) must fail to be true.

Types of Discontinuity

In a removable discontinuity, lim f ( x ) exists, but lim f ( x ) ≠ f ¿). This may be because f(c) is undefined, or because f(c) has
x →c x →c

the “wrong” value. The discontinuity can be removed by changing the definition of f(x) at c so that its new value there is lim f ( x ) . In
x →c

the left-most fig,

x2 −1 is undefined when x = 1, but if the definition of the function is completed by setting f(1) =2, it becomes
x−1
continuous – the hole in its graph is “filled in”.

In a jump discontinuity (Example 2), the right- and left-hand limits both exist, but are not equal. Thus, lim f (x ) does not
x →c
exist, according to (1). The size of the jump is the difference between the right- and left-hand limits (it is 2 in Example 2, for instance).
Though jump discontinuities are not common in functions given by simple formulas, they occur frequently in engineering — for example,
the square waves in electrical engineering, or the sudden discharge of a capacitor.
In an infinite discontinuity (Examples 3 and 4), the one-sided limits exist (perhaps as ∞ or −∞), and at least one of them is ±∞.
An essential discontinuity is one which isn’t of the three previous types — at least one of the one-sided limits doesn’t exist (not
even as ±∞). Though sin(1/x) is a standard simple example of a function with an essential discontinuity at 0, in applications they arise
rarely, presumably because Mother Nature has no use for them.
We say a function is continuous on an interval [a, b] if it is defined on that interval and continuous at every point of that interval.
(At the endpoints, we only use the appropriate one-sided limit in applying the definition above.)
We say a function is continuous if its domain is an interval, and it is continuous at every point of that interval.
A point of discontinuity is always understood to be isolated, i.e., it is the only bad point for the function on some interval.

Illustrative Examples

ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus

Page 14
 We illustrate the point of these definitions. (They are slightly different from the ones in your book, but are more consistent with
standard terminology in calculus.)

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3 Example 4

Example 1. The function 1/x is continuous on (0, ∞) and on (−∞, 0), i.e., for x > 0 and for x < 0, in other words, at every point in its
domain. However, it is not a continuous function since its domain is not an interval. It has a single point of discontinuity, namely x = 0,
and it has an infinite discontinuity there.

Example 2. The function tan x is not continuous, but is continuous on for example the interval −π/2 < x < π/2. It has infinitely many
points of discontinuity, at ±π/2, ±3π/2, etc.; all are infinite discontinuities.

Example 3. f(x) = |x| is continuous, but f′(x) has a jump discontinuity at 0.

Example 4. The function in Example 2, f (x)=¿ {−11 , , x >0

x <0 } does not have a continuous derivative f ' ( x) — students often think it
does since it seems that f ' (x)=0 everywhere. However, this is not so: f ' (0) does not exist, since by definition,
f (0+ ∆ x )−f (0)
f ' (0)= lim
∆ x →0 ∆x
but f(0) does not even exist. Even if f(0) is defined to be say 1, or 0, the derivative f ' (0) does not exist.

Illustrative Examples:
1. Determine if f ( x )=4 x 2−3 x+ 5 is continuous at x = 2.
Solution:
First, we get the limit of the function as x approaches to 2. That is,
lim 4 x 2−3 x +5 ¿ 4 (2)2−3(2)+5
x →2
¿ 16−6+5
¿ 15 The limit exists.
We evaluate the function at x = 2.
f ( x ) ¿ 4 x2 −3 x +5
f ( 2 ) ¿ 4 (2)2−3(2)+5
¿ 16−6+5
¿ 15 The function exists.
Evaluating the results, we have
lim 4 x 2−3 x +5=f ( x )
x →2
15=15
Therefore, we can say that the function is continuous at x + 2.

2. Determine if f ( x )=x 2−1 is continuous at x= -2.

Again, the three conditions must be satisfied. So, we get the limit of the function as x approaches to -2.
x 2−12−1
lim¿(−2) f (x) ¿ x 2−1
x →c
¿ 4−1 ¿(−2)2−1
¿3 ¿3
Since the computed values both exist and they are equal, we can say that the function is continuous at x=-2.

LEARNING TASK # 18:

x 2+ 3 x +1
Determine if f x=
( ) is continuous at x = 1.
x−1

FEEDBACK:
How was your 2nd module experience? Did you find it easy or difficult than the previous module? I
ES 111-Calculus
hope that1-Differential
you find it easierCalculus
this time. The notion of a limit is a fundamental concept of calculus and it’s
Page 15 useful in applications involving maximization.
I’m still this confident that you finished this module with enthusiasm and full of positivism. I have
hopes and expectations that you are really gained knowledge and interest about the subject. Just keep
doing the best that you can. Keep safe always.
SUMMARY:
 Limits. Let f (x) be a function of x and let a be constant. If there is a number L such that, in order to make the value of
f (x) as close to L as may be desired, it is sufficient to choose x close enough to a, but different from a , then we say that the
limit of f(x), as x approaches a, is L. Mathematically, we say
lim f ( x )=L
x→ a
 Conditions under which limits do not exist.
The limit of f(x) as x → c as does not exist under any of the following conditions:
a. f(x) approaches a different number from the right side of than it approaches from the left side of c.
b. f(x) increases or decreases without bound as approaches c.
c. f(x) oscillates between two fixed values as x approaches c.
 Limit Theorems:
1. lim c=c
x→ a

2. lim x =a
x→ a

3. lim cf (x )=c lim f ( x)

x→ a x→a

4. lim [f (x )¿± g ( x)]=lim f ( x)± lim g( x )¿

x→ a x→a x →a

5. lim [f (x ) ¿ ∙ g ( x)]=lim f ( x ) ∙ lim g ( x ) ¿

x→ a x →a x →a

lim f ( x )
f ( x ) x →a
6. lim = , provided that g(x) ≠0
x→ a g ( x ) lim g ( x)
x →a

7. lim ¿ ¿
x→ a

8. lim √n f ( x ) = n lim f ( x )
√
x→ a x→a

9. lim f ( x )=lim f ( k)
x→ a x→ a

 Techniques in Evaluating Limits of Functions

1. Factoring Method or Dividing Out Technique should be applied only when:
a. The limit of the given rational function is undefined or produces 0 in both the numerator and the
denominator. An expression such as 0/0 has no meaning as a real number and is called an “indeterminate
form” because you cannot, from the form alone, determine the limit.
b. Either the numerator or denominator of the rational function is factorable.
The following steps can be applied in evaluating the limits of functions
1. Factor either the numerator or denominator of the given rational function.
2. Cancel the common factor.
3. Apply the Substitution Theorem
4. Simplify.
2. Conjugation Method or Rationalizing Technique is used when:
a. the limit of the given rational function is undefined; and
b. either the numerator or denominator of the rational function is composed of radicals.
In evaluating limits of functions:
1. get the conjugate of the radical,
2. multiply the conjugate to the numerator and denominator of the given rational function,
3. cancel the common factors existing in the numerator and denominator,
4. apply the Substitution Theorem in order to get the limit of the result in step 3, and
5. Simplify.
 One-sided Limit

right hand limit lim ¿ x comes from the right, x > c

+¿ +¿
x→ c f (x)= L2∨f (x)→ L2 as x→ c ¿¿

ES 111-Calculus 1-Differential Calculus

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 left-hand limit lim ¿ x comes from the left, x < c
−¿ –
x→ c f (x)=L 1∨f (x)→ L1 as x→ c ¿
 Limits at Infinity and Limits of Sequences
Definition of Limits at Infinity
If f is a function and L1 and L2 are real numbers, then the statements
lim f ( x)=L1 Limit as x approaches - ∞
x→−∞
and
lim f (x)=L2 Limit as x approaches ∞
x→ ∞
denote the limits at infinity. The first statement is read “the limit of f(x) as x approaches -∞ is L1.” and the
second is read “the limit of f(x) as x approaches ∞ is L2.”

Limits at Infinity
If r is a positive real number, then
1
lim r
=0 Limit toward the right
x→ ∞ x
Furthermore, if x r is defined when x < 0, then
1
lim r =0 Limit toward the left
x→−∞ x
Limits at Infinity for Rational Functions
Consider the rational function
N (x )
f (x)=
D(x )
where
N ( x )=a n x n +...+ a0∧D (x)=bm x m+...+ b0
The limit of f(x) as x approaches positive or negative infinity is as follows.
0 , n<m
lim f ( x )=¿ { an ¿
x→ ±∞ , n=m
bm
If n > m, then the limit does not exist.
Limits at a Sequence
Let L be a real number. Let f be a function of a real variable such that lim f ( x )=L
n→∞
If {an } is a sequence such that
f (n)=a n
for every positive integer n, then lim an =L
n→∞

 Continuity. A function f is continuous at x = x if it satisfies the following condition:

1. lim f ( x ) ∃;
x →c

2. f ( c ) ∃; and
3. lim f ( x )=f (c)
x →c

Suggested Readings:
Besavilla, Venancio I., Engineering Mathematics for Computerized Licensure Examination, Vol.2

Tiong Jaime & Rojas, Romeo A, 1999, 1001 Solved Problems in Engineering Mathematics, JRT Publishers

References:
Marcelo, Gladys Glo H.,2009, Basic Calculus, Rex Book Store, Inc.

Love, Clyde E. and Rainville Earl D.,2010, Differential and Integral Calculus, 6th Ed, Macmillan Publishing Co.,Inc.

Carla C. Morris and Robert M. Stark, 2016, Fundamentals of Calculus, John Wiley & Sons, Inc, Hoboken, New Jersey

Robert Wrede and Murray R. Spiegel,2010, Schaum’s Outlines Advanced Calculus, Third Edition, McGraw Hill Companies, Inc,

Fred Safier, 2013, Schaum’s Outlines Precalculus, Third Edition, McGraw Hill Companies, Inc

Greg Hill, 2011, The Everything Guide to Calculus I, F+W Media, Inc.

http://www.mathisfun.com
http://www.khanacademy.org/math/differential-calculus

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 http://byjus.com/maths/differential-calculus/

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