Continuity

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 Continuity

GENERAL INTRODUCTION :
Function is said to be continuous at x = a
if while travelling along the graph of the
function and in crossing over the point at x
= a either from Left to Right or from Right to
Left one does not have to lift pen. In case one
has to lift his pen the graph of the function
is said to have break or discontinuous at x=a.
Different type of situations which may up at
x=a along the graph can be:

FORMULATIVE DEFINITION OF CONTINUITY :

A function f(x) is said to be continuous at
x = a,
If Lim f ( x ) = f ( a ) exists and equal to f(a).
x →a

⇒ Lim f ( a − h) = Lim f ( a + h) = f ( a ) = a finite quantity.

h→ 0 h→ 0

i.e. (LHL at x = a) = (RHL at x = a) = value of f(x) at

x = a = a finite quantity.
Continuity

1.
 NOTE :
(i) Continuity at x = a
⇒ existence of limit at x = a, but not the
converse.
(ii) Continuity at x = a
⇒ f is well defined at x = a but not the
converse.
(iii) Discontinuity at x = a is meaningful to talk
if in the immediate neighbourhood of x = a,
i.e., the function has a graph in the immediate
neighbourhood of x = a, not necessarity at
Point to Remember!!!
x = a.
(iv) Continuity is always talk in the domain of
All rational functions are
1 1
function and hence f ( x ) = , ,  tanx are continuous. Because continuity
x−1 x
is always talk in the domain of
all continuous functions but if you want to f(x).
1
talk of discontinuity then we can say is
x−1
1
discontinuous at x = 1, is discontinuous at
x
x = 0.
(v) Point function are continuous.
e.g.   1 − x + x − 1, x + −x  
(vi) Inverse of a discontinuous function can be ∘
continuous. •
 1 + x2     if x > 0
 ∘
()
e.g.  f x = 0     if x = 0  

( )
 − 1 + x    if x < 0
2

is discontinuous at x = 0 but its inverse

function
 f-1(x)
 x − 1    if x > 1
−1


()
 f x =  0         if x = 0

 ( )
 − − 1 + x   if x < −1 -1
∘
0
• x
1
which is a continuous function and its graph
is as shown.
Continuity

2.
CONTINUTY IN AN INTERVAL :
(a) A function f is said to be continuous in (a, Point to Remember!!!
b) if f is continuous at each and every point
∈ (a, b). It should be remembered that all
(b) A function f is said to be continuous in a polynomial functions, logarithmic
closed interval [a, b] if : functions, exponential functions,
(i) f is continuous in the open interval (a,b) and trigonometric functions, inverse
(ii) f is right continuous at ‘a’ circular functions, and modulus
functions are continuous in their
  i.e. Lim+ f ( x ) = f ( a ) = a finite quantity.
x →a domain.
(iii) f is left continuous at ‘b’
i.e.  Lim− f ( x ) = f (b ) = a finite quantity.
x →b

REASONS OF DISCONTINUITY :
A function can be discontinuous due to the
following reasons.
(i)

Lim f ( x ) does not exist (f(a) may or may

x →a

not be defined)
i.e. Lim  f ( a + h) ≠ Lim  f ( a − h)
h→ 0 h→ 0

Ex. (a) f(x) = [x] is discontinuous at all integer

points; f(x) = sgn(x) is discontinuous at
x = 0.
x
(b) f(x) = is discontinuous at x = 1.
x−1
(ii)

Lim f ( x ) exist but is not equal to f(a) i.e.,

x →a

Lim f ( a + h) = Lim  f ( a − h) ≠ f ( a )
h→ 0 h→ 0

 πx
 ( 1 − x ) tan 2  if x ≠ 1
Ex. f ( x ) = 
π    if x = 1
 2
Continuity

3.
 πx h 2
Lim f ( x ) = Lim 1 ( − x ) tan   = Lim  =
x →1 x →1
 2  h → 0 πh
  π
tan  
 2 
() () ()
⇒ lim f x ≠ f 1 ⇒ f x is discontinuous at x = 1.
x→ 1

(iii)

f(a) is not defined

1
Ex. f ( x ) =
x−1

Q.1 What value must be assigned to k so that the function f(x) is continuous at
x = 4?  x4 − 256
 ,x ≠ 4
f (x) =  x − 4

 k, x=4

 x4 − 256
 ,x ≠ 4
Sol. f (x) =  x − 4

k, x=4

( )
 x2 + 16 ( x − 4 )( x + 4 )
 ,x ≠ 4
f (x) =  ( x − 4)

 k, x=4

f(x) will be continuous for k = 256

because lim f ( x ) = 256

x →4

 sinax2
 ,x ≠ 0
Q.2 Let f ( x ) =  x 2
. For what values of a, f(x) is continuous at x = 0.
3 + 1 , x = 0
 4 4a

 sinax2
 ,x ≠ 0
f (x) =  x
2

Sol. 3 + 1 , x = 0
 4 4a
Continuity

4.
 lim  f ( x ) = a = f ( 0 )
x →0

3 1
+ =a
4 4a
3a + 1 = 4a2  ⇒  4a2 − 3a − 1 = 0

⇒ 4a2 − 4a + a − 1 = 0
⇒ 4a ( a − 1) + 1 ( a − 1) = 0
1
⇒ a = 1, −
4


( )
cot2 x

 cosx x≠0
f ( x ) =  −1
Q.3 e 2 if x=0
find whether f(x) is continuous at x = 0 or not.


lim  f ( x ) = lim ( cosx )

cot2 x

Sol. x →0 x →0

− ( 1−cosx ) x2 −1
lim ( cosx − 1)cot2 x lim
=e =e x →0 x2 tan2 x
= e 2 = f ( 0 ) ⇒ f ( x ) is continuous at x = 0.

x →0

(
 ex − 1 3 cosec x
 )      x  ≠ 0
()
Q.4 If f x ()
=  ln 1 + x2 ( )
is continuous, find b.

b                         x = 0
3
 ex − 1 
( )
ex − 1 cosec ( x )  
3

 x  . x  = 1 = f 0
Sol. lim = lim   ( )
x →0
ln 1 + x2 ( x →0
)
ln 1 + x2  sinx  ( )
x 2

∴ b = 1.

Q.5 Find the values of ‘a’ and ‘b’ so that the function
 π
 x + a 2 sin x      0≤x<
 4
π π
f (x ) =  2x cot x + b ≤ x < is continuous in [0, π]
 4 2

a cos 2x − b sin x π
  ≤ x < π   
 2
Continuity

5.
 π π π π
Sol. f(x) is continuous in the interval 0 ≤ x <
,   < x < , < x ≤ π .
4 4 2 2
π π
We need to make the function continuous at x = ,   
4 2
π π
For continuity at x = ,  lim f ( x ) = lim+ f ( x ) = f  
4 x → π−  π 
x →  4
 
 4   4 

π
( ()
lim − x + a 2 sin x = lim +  2x cot
π π
x +b ) = f  
 4
x →  x → 
4 4

π π π π π π

⇒ + a 2 sin   = 2.   .  cot   + b = 2 . cot   + b
4 4 4 4 4  4
π π π
⇒ + a = + b ⇒ a − b = …(1)
4 2 4
π π
For continuity at x = , lim− f ( x ) = lim+ f ( x ) = f  
2 x → π  π 
x →  2
 
 2   2 

π
⇒  π− 
( )  π+ 
(
lim 2x cot x + b = lim a cos 2x − b sin x = a cos π − b sin ) 2
x→  x→ 
 2  2

⇒ 0 + b = -a -b ⇒ a + 2b = 0 …(2)
From equation (1) and (2)
π −π
a= ,b =  .
6 12


 1 − cos4x        if     x < 0
 x2

Q.6 f ( x ) =  a                    if     x = 0 Determine ‘a’ if possible so that the function

 x
     if     x > 0

 16 +   x   − 4
is continuous at x = 0.

1 −  cos4x
Sol. f (0 ) = Lim f ( x ) = Lim x =8
−
2
x →0− x →0−

x.  16 + x + 4 
x
( )
f 0 +
= Lim+ f ( x ) = Lim+
x →0 x →0
= Lim+
x →0

16 + x − 16

16 + x − 4

= Lim+ ( 16 + x + 4 = 8)
Continuity

x →0

( ) ( )
f 0− = f 0+ = 8 = f ( 0 ) ⇒ a = 8
6.
  a



1 + (
sinx )
sinx        for     −
π
6
<x<0

Q.7 ( )f x =
 tan2x
b              for     x = 0 Find ‘a’ and ‘b’ if f is continuous at

 e tan3x            π
for     0 < x <
 6
x = 0.
a

Sol. x →0
()
lim− f x = Lim 1 + sinx
x →0
( ) sinx
= ea
tan2x tan2x 3x 2 2
Lim . .
lim+ f ( x ) = Lime tan3x
= ex →0+ 2x tan3x 3
= e3

+
x →0 x →0

2 2
2  
∴  e = b = e ⇒ a = ,b = e 3 
a 3

(
 e2x + 1 − x + 1 ex + e− x

) (      if     x ≠   0
)( )
Q.8 ()
Let f x =  x ex − 1 ( )

 k                                    if    x = 0

if f(x) is continuous at x = 0 then k is equal to

1 3
(A) (B) 1 (C) (D) 2
2 2

Sol. (D)
(e 2x
) (
+ 1 − ( x + 1) ex + e− x )
k = Lim
x →0
x ( e − 1)
x

By L Hospital Rule
(
2e2x  −  ( x +  1) ex  −  e− x −   ex  +  e− x ) ( ) 
= Lim
x →0
(e
x
)
− 1  +  xex

By L Hospital Rule again

4 .e2x  −  ( x + 1) ( ex + e− x ) −  ( ex − e− x )  −  ( ex − e− x ) 4 − (2) − 0 − 0
= Lim = =1
x →0 e + ( x ⋅ e  +  1 ⋅ e
x x x
) 1 +  1
Continuity

7.
  x + 1        x   ≤ 1
Q.9 If f (x ) =  is continuous at x = 1, then find the value of a.
3 − ax      x > 1
2

 x + 1        x  ≤  1
Sol. f (x) = 3 − ax 2
     x > 1

() ()
lim− f x = lim+ f x = f 1
x→ 1 x→ 1
()
2=3–a ⇒ a=1

x2 + kx + 1
Q.10 Let f ( x ) = . The interval(s) of all possible values of k for which f is
x2 − k
continuous for every x ∈ R , is
(A) ( −∞, −2 ) (B)  −  2,  0 ) (C)  R − ( −2, 2) (D)  ( −2, 2)

Sol. (B)
x2 − k ≠ 0 ∀ x ∈ R
⇒ k < 0 …(1)
x2 + kx + 1 ≥ 0 ∀ x ∈ R 
⇒ k2 − 4 ≤ 0 ⇒ −2 ≤ k ≤ 2 …(2)
k ∈ [-2, 0)

1 2
Q.11 The function f : R-{0} →R given by f ( x ) = − , is continuous at x = 0,
x e2x − 1
then find the value of f(0).

Sol. lim f ( x ) = f ( 0 )
x →0

1 2 1 1
= lim − 2x = lim −  
x →0 x e −1 x → 0 x x ( 1 + x + …)
1  1 + x + ... − 1 
= lim   = 1 = f (0)
x →0 x  1 + x + ... 

 1
( 1 + 3x ) x , x ≠ 0 . Discuss the continuity of f(x) at
Q.12 Let f ( x ) = 
 e3 , x=0

(i) x = 0, (ii) x = 1.
 1 1
( 1+ 3x − 1)
(i) lim f ( x ) = lim ( 1 + 3x ) x = ex →0 x = e3 = f ( 0 )
lim

Sol. x →0 x →0

hence continuous at x = 0
(ii) lim f ( x ) = 4 = f ( 1)
x→1

hence continuous at x = 1

 sin x + sin 5x π
   if x ≠ −
4 . Find k if f is continuous at x = − π
Q.13 ( ) f x =  cos x + cos 5x
 k               if x = − π 4
 4
1
(A) 1 (B) –1 (C) 0 (D) −
2

Sol. (A)
 sin x + sin 5x π
   if x ≠ −
()
f x =  cos x + cos 5x 4
k                if x = − π
 4
sin x +  sin5x
k = lim    
−π cos x +  cos 5x
x→
4

k = lim  
2 sin 3x cos 2x
−π 2 cos 3x cos 2x
= 1 
x→
4

(
 x2 + 3x − 1 tanx

)
  if x ≠ 0 ; then find the value of k if f(x) is
Q.14 ()
Let f x =  x2 + 2x
k                      if x = 0 

continuous at x = 0.

(
 x2 + 3x − 1 tanx

)
  if x ≠ 0 ;
Sol. ( ) f x =  x2 + 2x
 k                     if x = 0 


(x2 + 3x − 1)
k = lim
x →0
( x + 2) x
tanx

−1
so, k =
2

Continuity

9.
 Q.15 Which of the following functions is not continuous ∀ x ∈ R? 5

ex + 1  22x + 1  7
(A) 2sinx + 3 (B) x   (C)  3x    (D) sgnx + 1 
e +3 2 + 5

Sol. (D)
(A) 2sinx + 3 is always defined. Hence continuous
ex + 1 ex + 3 2 2
(B) = − = 1− x  
ex + 3 ex + 3 ex + 3 e +3
Which is always defined, hence continuous,
5
 22x + 1  7
(C)  3x   
2 + 5
Always defined and continuous.
(D) sgnx + 1 
sgnx + 1 ≥ 0
sgnx ≥ –1 ⇒ sgnx = 0, 1, –1 that is discontinuous at x = 0.

 a + 3 cos x
 ,       x ≠ 0
 x2
Q.16 Let f ( x ) = 
 
 b tan  π  , x = 0
. If f(x) is continuous at x = 0, then find a and

  [ x + 3] 
 

b, where [.] denotes the greatest integer function.

 a + 3 cos x
 , x≠0
 x2
f (x) = 
Sol.  
 b tan  π  , x = 0
 
  [ x + 3] 

lim  f ( x ) = f ( 0 ) = b 3
x →0

a + 3 cos x
lim
x →0 x2
= b 3  ⇒ for a = –3 we get

x 
( −3)  2 sin 2
   
2  3
 = b 3 ⇒ −
lim
x →0 x2
2
=b 3
4 
4
3
Continuity

b=−    and a = –3
2

10.
  x4 − 5x2 + 4
 , x ≠ 1, −2

() (x − 1)(x + 2)
Q.17 Discuss the continuity of f x = 
 6, x=1
 12, x = −2


lim+ f ( x )
(x 2
)(
− 1 x2 − 4 ) = lim ( x − 1)( x + 1)( x − 2)( x + 2)
Sol. x→1
= lim
x → 1+
( x − 1)( x + 2) x → 1+ ( x − 1)( x + 2)
= – 2 ≠ f(1)
hence discontinuous.
(x − 1) (x + 1) (x − 2) (x + 2) = −4 ≠ f −2
()
lim+ f x = lim+
x →−2 x →−2 − (x − 1) (x + 2)
( )

hence discontinuous.

Q.18 Find the points of discontinuity of the following functions.
1
(i) f ( x ) =
2sinx − 1
1
Sol. f ( x ) = 2sinx − 1
f(x) is discontinuous when 2 sinx – 1 = 0
1 π 5π
⇒  sinx =
2
⇒ x = 2nπ +    or  x = 2nπ +
6 6
,  n ∈ Z

1
Q. (ii) f ( x ) =
x −3 x +2
2

1
Sol. f ( x ) = x 2
−3 x +2

f(x) is discontinuous when x2 − 3 x + 2 = 0

⇒  | x |2 −3 x + 2 = 0

⇒ ( x − 1)( x − 2) = 0 ⇒ x = 1, 2 ⇒ x = ±1, ±2
Continuity

11.
 1
Q. (iii) f ( x ) =
x + x2 + 1
4

1 1
Sol. f ( x ) = x 4
=
+ x + 1  2 1 2 3
2

x +  +
 2 4
2
 1 3
Now, x4 + x2 + 1 =  x2 +  + ≥ 1 ∀ x ∈ R 
 2  4

⇒ f(x) is continuous ∀ x ∈ R

1
Q. (iv) f ( x ) =  x−1 
 
1 − e x −2 
1
Sol. f ( x ) =  x−1 
 
 x −2 
1−e
f(x) is discontinuous when x - 2 = 0, also

 x−1 
 

 x −2 
when 1 − e =0
 x−1 

 
 x −2 
⇒  x = 2 and e = 1 
x−1
⇒ x = 2 and
x−2
= 0 

⇒ x = 2 and x = 1

Q. (v) f ( x ) =  x   − x − 1 , where [.] represents the greatest integer function.

Sol. f ( x ) =  x   − x − 1 = x  − ( x  − 1) = 1

⇒ f(x) is continuous ∀ x ∈ R.

Q.19 If f ( x + y ) = f ( x ) .f ( y ) for all x and y ∈ R and f (x) = 1 + g (x) G (x) , where
lim  g ( x ) = 0 and limG ( x ) exist. Prove that f(x) is continuous for all x.
x →0 x →0

Sol. Let x = a, where ‘a’ is any real number.

lim f ( x ) = lim f ( a − h) = lim f ( a ) f ( −h)

x →a − h→ 0 h→ 0

(
= f ( a ) 1 + lim  g ( −h)  G ( −h) = f ( a ) )
Continuity

h→ 0

() () ()
Similarly, lim+ f x = f a =  lim− f x so f(x) is continuous at x = a ∀ a ∈ R.
x →a x →a
12.
  8x − 4x − 2x + 1
, x>0
Q.20 If f ( x ) =  x2 is continuous at x = 0, then find the value of
e sinx + 4x + kln4, x ≤ 0
x

k.

 8x − 4x − 2x + 1
, x>0
Sol. f ( x ) =  x2
ex sinx + 4x + kln4, x ≤ 0
xlne 8 xlne 4 xlne 2
8x − 4x − 2x + 1 e −e −e +1
lim+ = lim+  
x →0 x 2
x →0 x 2

2 2 2
 ( x ln8)   ( x ln 4)   ( x ln2) 
 1 + x ln8 +   + ...  −  1 + x ln 4 + + ...  −  1 + x ln2 + + ...  + 1
 2!   2!   2! 
= lim+       .
x →0 x 2

( )
 ln8 2
( ln4 ) ( ln2 ) 
2 2

x (ln8 − ln4 − ln2 )  +  x  2

 −    −   
 2 2 2 
= lim+   
x →0 x2

= 2(ln2)2

lim f ( x ) = 0 + 0 + kln4 = (ln2) (ln4)
x →0−

⇒ k = ln2.

TYPES OF DISCONTINUITY :

Continuity

13.
 REMOVABLE DISCONTINUITY :
Here lim  f ( x ) necessarily exists, but is either
x →a

not equal to f(a) or f(a) is not defined. In this

case, therefore it is possible to redefine the
function in such a manner that lim  f ( x ) = f ( a )
x →a

and thus making the function continuous.

These discontinuities can be further classified
as

(a) Missing point discontinuity :

Here lim  f ( x ) exists. But f(a) is not defined.
x →a

(b) Isolated point discontinuity :

Here lim  f ( x ) exists, also f(a) is defined but
x →a

lim  f ( x ) ≠ f ( a )
x →a

NON-REMOVABLE DISCONTINUTY
Here lim  f ( x ) does not exists and therefore
x →a

it is not possible to redefine the function in

any manner to make it continuous. Such
discontinuities can be further classified into
three fold.
(a) Finite type :
Both limits finite and unequal.
In this case non-negative difference
between the two limits is called the Jump
of discontinuity. A function having a finite
number of jumps in a given interval I is
called a Piece Wise Continuous or Sectionally
Continuous function in this interval.
(b) Infinite type :
At least one of the two limit are infinity.
(c) Oscillatory :
Limits oscillate between two finite quantities.
Continuity

14.
 ( x − 1) (9 − x )2

Q.1 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = ,   x ≠ 1

x−1

Sol. At x = 1, f(1) is not defined. 9

Hence f(x) has missing point of discontinuity at x = 1. 8

-3 3
0 1

 0  if   x ∈ I
Q.2 ()
Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f x = x  +  −x  = 
−1  if   x ∉ I

Sol. f(x) has isolated point of discontinuity

at all integral points.

x2 − 4
Q.3 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = ,   x ≠ 2
x−2

Sol. f(2) is not defined. Hence, f(x) has missing 4

point of discontinuity at x = 2

0 2

Q.4 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for

 π
 0      if  x = 2nπ +
() ( ) (( )(
f x = sgn cos 2x − 2 sin x + 3 = sgn 2 2 + sin x 1 − sin x )) =
 +1   if x ≠  2nπ + π
2

 2

Sol. f(x) has an isolated point discontinuity at

π
x = 2nπ +
2
Continuity

15.
 sinx
Q.5 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = ,x ≠ 0
x
1
Sol. f(0) is not defined. f(x) has missing point

of discontinuity at x = 0. 2
π
0
−π π π π
−
2 2
sinx
Q.6 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for
x
at x = 0.

f(0+ ) = 1
sinx
Sol. lim  
x →0 x
; jump = 2
f(0− ) = −1

Hence, it has finite type non removable discontinuity.

1 1
Q.7 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = sin and f ( x ) = cos at x = 0.
x x
1 1
Sol. f ( x ) = sin x and f ( x ) = cos at x = 0 oscillates between – 1 and 1.
x

Hence, it has oscillatory non removable discontinuity.

x 
Q.8 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for   at x = 2.
x
f(2+ ) = 1
x  1
Sol. lim    ; jump =
x →2 x 2
1
f(2− ) =
2
Hence, it has finite type non removable discontinuity.

x
Q.9 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) =   at x = 1.
1− x
f(1+ ) = −∞
x
Sol. f ( x ) = 1 − x   at x=1
f(1− ) = +∞
Continuity

Hence, it has infinite type non removable discontinuity.

16.
  1 
Q.10 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = 1 + 3 sin (ln x ) at x = 0,

where [.] represents greatest integer function.

 1 
Sol. f ( x ) = 1 + 3 sin (ln x ) at x = 0 oscillates between 0 and 1.

Hence, it has oscillatory non removable discontinuity.

π
Q.11 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = 2tanx at x = .
2

π+
f� � =0
π
Sol. f ( x ) = 2
tanx
at x = 2
2
𝜋𝜋 −
f� � =∞
2
Hence, it has infinite type non removable discontinuity.

Q.12 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = x1 2

at x = 0.

f(0+ ) = ∞
1
Sol. f (x) = x 2
at x = 0
f(0− ) = ∞

Hence, it has infinite type non removable discontinuity.

Q.13 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for the following functions :

1
(i) f ( x ) =
x−1
1
Sol. f ( x ) = x − 1
x = 1 is the vertical asymptote and hence has non-removable discontinuity.

x3 − x
Q. (ii) f ( x ) =
x2 − 1

x3 − x x x − 1
2
( )
Continuity

Sol. f (x) = =
x2 − 1 x2 − 1

17.
 If f(1) = 1 and f(–1) = –1 then f(x) is continuous.

Hence, removable discontinuity and missing point discontinuity.

x−1
Q. (iii) f ( x ) =
x−1
x−1
Sol. f (x) =
x−1
lim+ f ( x ) ≠ lim− f ( x )  
x→1 x→1

Hence, non-removable discontinuity and also jump of discontinuity.

 1 
Q. (iv) f ( x ) = sin  
 x − 1
 1 
Sol. f ( x ) = sin  x − 1 
At x=1,
lim f ( x ) oscillates between – 1 to 1.
x→1

Hence, non-removable discontinuity and oscillating discontinuity.

Q.14 State the number of points of discontinuities and discuss the nature of
1
discontinuity for the function f ( x ) = .
ln x

 1
        if x > 0,    x ≠  1
 lnx
Sol. ( ) f x =

1
    if x < 0,   x ≠ −1
function is obviously discontinuous at x = 0, 1,

ln −x ( )
–1, as it is not defined.

lim f ( x ) = 0

 Limit exists at x=0. Hence there exists removable discontinuity at
x →0+  

lim− f ( x ) = 0
x →0   
x = 0. (Missing point discontinuity)
Continuity

18.
 lim f ( x ) = ∞ 

 Limit DNE. Hence non removable discontinuity (infinite type) x = 1
x → 1+  

lim− f ( x ) = −∞ 
x→1   

()
lim f x = −∞ 


x →−1+  
 Limit DNE.
x →−1  
()
lim− f x = ∞ 


Hence non removable discontinuity (infinite type) at x = –1

THEOREMS ON CONTINUITY :
T-1 :

Sum, difference, product and quotient of two

continuous functions is always a continuous
function.
f (x)
However,  h ( x ) = is continuous at x = a
g (x)

only if g(a) ≠ 0.

IMPORTANT NOTES :
(a)

If f(x) is continuous and g(x) is discontinuous

then f(x) + g(x) is a discontinuous function.

Proof :
Let f(x) + g(x) is a continuous function.
( )
so, lim f ( x ) + g ( x ) = f ( a ) + g ( a ) …(1)
x →a

Also, f(x) is a continuous function lim  f ( x ) = f ( a ) …(2)

x →a

From (1) and (2)

lim  g ( x ) = g ( a ) ⇒ g(x) is continuous at x = a.
x →a

But given g(x) is discontinuous at x = a.

This is a contradiction.
Hence our assumption is wrong.
⇒ f(x) + g(x) will be discontinuous function.
Continuity

19.
 (b)

If f(x) is continuous & g(x) is discontinuous at

x = a then product function φ ( x ) = f ( x ) . g ( x ) is

not necessarily discontinuous at x = a.

 1
sin x≠0
Q.1 If f ( x ) = x & g ( x ) = 
x  then discuss the continuity for f(x)·g(x).

0 x=0

  1
 x sin   ,   x ≠  0 is continuous at x = 0.
Sol. ( ) f x · g x = ()  x
0,              x = 0


 2x − 1 
Q.2 If f ( x ) = cos 
 2 
 π and g(x) = [x] ([.] denotes the greatest integer function)

then discuss the continuity of f(x)·g(x).

 2x − 1 
Sol. f ( x ) = cos 
 2 
 π is continuous at x = 1.

g(x) = [x] is discontinuous at x = 1.

 2x − 1  π
lim+ cos 
x →1  2 
 π. [ x ] = cos . ( 1) = 0
2
 2x − 1  π
Limcos   π. [ x ] = cos . ( 0) = 0
x →1−  2  2

f ( 1) = 0

⇒ f(x)·g(x) is continuous at x = 1.
(c)

If f(x) and g(x) both are discontinuous at x = a

then the product function φ ( x ) = f ( x ) .g ( x ) is

not necessarily discontinuous at x = a.

1 x ≥ 0
E.g. f ( x ) = −g ( x ) = 
Continuity

 −1 x < 0
∴ f(x) g(x) = –1 ∀ x∈ R which is continuous function.
20.
  x + 1 ;     x < 0  x + 1 ;           x <  0
Q.3 ()
If f x =  ()
  and  g x =  discuss continuity of
 x;          x ≥ 0  − x + 2 + 3;    x ≥ 0 
f(x) + g(x).

Sol. Since f(x) is discontinuous at x = 0 and g(x) is continuous at x = 0, then f(x) + g(x)
is discontinuous at x = 0.

At all other places, both functions are continuous.

Hence their sum will be continuous ⇒ f(x) + g(x) is discontinuous at x = 0 only.

T-2 : Intermediate value theorem :

If f is continuous on [a, b] and f(a) ≠ f(b) then
for any value c ∈ (f(a), f(b)), there is at least
one number x0 in (a, b) for which f(x0) = c.

Figure (i) Figure (ii)

y y
f(b)

c ∘

f(a) f(b)

x a x
0 a b 0 b
f(a)
Figure (iii) Figure (iv)
Continuity

21.
 Note :

(1) Continuity through the interval [a, b] is

essential for the validity of this theorem.

(2) In figure-(iv), f(a) and f(b) are of opposite

sign but f(x) has no root in (a, b) as f is
discontinuous.

a +b
Show that the function f ( x ) = ( x − a ) ( x − b)
2 2

Q.1 + x takes the value

2
 for

some value of x ∈ a,b .

Sol. f ( x ) = ( x − a ) ( x − b)
2 2
+ x ; as f(x) is continuous on [a, b] and f(a)= a and f(b) = b,

then for any value c ∈ (a, b), there is at least one number x0 in (a, b) for which

a +b
f ( x0 ) = c = .
2

Q.2 Suppose that f(x) is continuous in [0, 1] and f(0) = 0, f(1) = 0. Prove that f(c) =
1 - 2c2 for some c ∈ (0, 1).

Sol. Let g(x) = f(x) + 2x2 – 1 is a continuous function in (0, 1).

g(0) = f(0) – 1 = -1 and g(1) = f(1) + 1 = 1 then there exists some c ∈ (0, 1) such
that g(c) = 0.

f(c) = 1 – 2c2.

T-3 : Extreme value Theorem :

If f is continuous on [a, b] then f takes on,
a least value ‘m’ and a greatest value ‘M’ on
this interval.
Continuity

22.
 M M

m
m
ac d b a b
Minimum value ‘m’ occurs Minimum value ‘m’ occurs
at x=c and maximum value at the end point x=a and
M occurs at x=d where maximum value M occurs
c, d∈(a, b) inside the interval
M occurs inside the interval
Note :

To see that continuity is necessary for the

extreme value theorem to be true refer the
graph shown.
There is a discontinuity at x = c. The function
has a minimum value at the left end point M
m
x = a and f has no maximum value.
a x
=
PROPERTIES OF FUNCTION CONTINUOUS IN c
[a, b]:
(i) If a function f is continuous on a closed
interval [a, b] then it is bounded.
(ii) A continuous function whose domain is
some closed interval must have its range
also in closed interval.
(iii) If f is continuous and onto on [a, b] and is
one-one then f–1 (from the range of f) is also
continuous.
(iv) If f(a) and f(b) posses opposite signs then ∃
at least one solution of the equation
f(x) = 0 in the open interval (a, b) provided f
is continuous in [a, b].
Continuity

23.
 Q.1 Let f be a continuous function defined onto on [0, 1] with range [0, 1]. Show
that there is some c in (0, 1) such that f(c) = 1 – c.

Sol. Consider g(x) = f(x) – 1 + x  g(x) is continuous in [0, 1]

g(0) = f(0) -1 ≤ 0 [as f(0) ≤ 1]
g(1) = f(1) ≥ 0 [as f(1) ≥ 0]
Hence, g(0) and g(1) have values of opposite signs.
Hence, there exists at least one c ∈ (0, 1) such that g(c) = 0.
∴ g(c) = f(c) – 1 + c = 0; f(c) = 1 – c.

Q.2 Let f be continuous on the interval [0, 1] to R such that f(0) = f(1). Prove that
 1  1
there exists a point c in 0,  such that f ( c ) = f  c +  .
 2  2

 1
Sol. Consider a continuous function g ( x ) = f  x +  − f ( x )
 2
  1 
 g is continuous  x ∈  0, 2 
  
 1  1
⇒ g ( 0 ) = f   − f ( 0 ) = f   − f ( 1) [as f(0) = f(1)]
2 2
 1  1   1 
and g   = f ( 1) − f   = − f   − f ( 1) 
2 2  2 
 1
Since g is continuous and g(0) and g   have opposite signs, hence the
2
 1
equation g(x) = 0 must have atleast one root in 0,  .
 2
 1  1
Hence, for some c ∈ 0,  , g(c) = 0 ⇒ f  c +  = f ( c ) .
 2   2 

Q.3 Let f : 0,  1 → 0,  1 be a continuous function. Then prove
f(x) = x for at least one x ∈ [0, 1].
y
Sol. Clearly, 0 ≤ f(0) ≤ 1 and 0 ≤ f(1) ≤ 1.
1
y=x

As f(x) is continuous, f(x) attains all the values be-

tween f(0) and f(1) and the graph will have no breaks.
f(0) f(1)
So, the graph will cut the line y = x atleast at one
Continuity

point x where 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. So, f(x) = x at that point.

O 1 x
24.
 CONTINUITY OF SPECIAL TYPES OF FUNCTIONS:
Continuity Of Functions In Which Greatest Integer
Function Is Involved : 5

f(x) = [x] is discontinuous when x is an integer.

Similarly, f(x) = [g(x)] is discontinuous when
g(x) is an integer, but this is true only when 4 ∘
g(x) is monotonic (g(x) is strictly increasing or
strictly decreasing).
3 ∘
For example, f ( x ) =  x  is discontinuous
 
2 ∘
when x is an integer as x strictly increasing
(monotonic function).
1 ∘
f(x) = [x2], x ≥ 0 is discontinuous when x2 is an
integer, as x2 is strictly increasing for x ≥ 0.
∘1 √2 √3 2√5

Now consider, f(x)=[sinx], x ∈ [0, 2π], g(x)=sinx

is not monotonic in [0, 2π].

3 ∘
For this type of function, points of discontinuity 2 ∘
can determined by graphical methods. We
3π
1 ∘
can note that at x =
2
, sinx takes integral ∘1 4 9 16
3π
value –1, but at x = , f(x) = [sinx] is
2
continuous.
Continuity

25.
 Q.1 Discuss the continuity of following functions ([.] represents the greatest
integer function.
(i) f(x) = [logex]

Sol. log x function is a monotonically increasing function.

e
Hence f(x) = [log x] is discontinuous, where log x = k or x = e , k ∈ Z   k
e e

Thus f(x) is discontinuous at x = ...e−2 , e−1 , e0 , e1 , e2 , ... 

Q. (ii) f(x) = [sin–1x]

Sol. sin–1x is a monotonically increasing function.

Hence, f(x) = [sin–1x] is discontinuous where sin–1x is an integer.
⇒ sin–1x = –1, 0, 1  or  x = –sin1, 0, sin1

 2 
Q. (iii) f ( x ) =  2
,x ≥ 0
1 + x 
2
Sol. 1 + x2
, x ≥ 0, is a monotonically decreasing function.

 2  2
Hence, f ( x ) =  2
, x ≥ 0 is discontinuous, when   is an integer.
1 + x  1 + x2
2
⇒ = 1, 2
1 + x2
⇒ x = 1, 0

Q.2 Draw the graph and find the points of discontinuity for f(x) = [2cosx],
x ∈ [0, 2π], ([.] represents the greatest integer function).

y
Sol. f(x) = [2 cosx]
(0,2)
Clearly from the graph given in
2• •
figure f(x) is discontinuous at
1∘ • • ∘y=1
points where, 2cosx = ± 1, 0, ± 2 2π 4π
3 π 3
∘π • •3π 5∘π x
X′ O π 2π
3 2 3
2
from graph -1 ∘ • • ∘ y=-1
π π 2π 4π 3π 5π
x = 0, , , , , , , 2π
3 2 3 3 2 3 -2 ∘ ∘ y=-2
Y'
Continuity

26.
Q.3 Draw the graph and discuss the continuity of f(x) = [sinx + cosx], x ∈ [0, 2π],
where [.] represents the greatest integer function.

Sol. f(x) = [sinx + cosx] = [g(x)] where g(x) = sinx + cosx

π π
g ( 0) = 1, g   = 2, g   = 1
4 2
y
 3π   5π 
g   = 0, g ( π ) = −1, g   = − 2
4
   4  1• • •
5π 3π
π 4 2
 3π   7π  x’ x
π π • • 
g   = −1, g   = 0, g ( 2π ) = 1
O 3π 7π 2π
 2   4  4 2
4 4
-1  • • 
Clearly from the graph given in


-2
figure f(x) is discontinuous at  
π 3π 3π 7 π
x= , , π, , , 2π  . y’
2 4 2 4

( )  sin x − 2 + a cos x − 2 , ([.] denotes the greatest

 x−2 3
If the function f ( x ) = 
Q.4  a 
( ) ( )
 
integer function) which is continuous in [4, 6], then find the value of a.

Sol. sin(x - 2) and cos(x - 2) are continuous for all x.

Since [x] is not continuous at integer point.

( )  = 0 ∀ x ∈ [4, 6].
 x−2 3
So, f(x) is continuous in [4, 6] if 
 a 
 

Now ( x − 2) ∈ 8, 64  for x ∈ [4, 6].

3

( ) =0
 x−2 3
⇒ a > 64 for 
 a 
 
Continuity

27.
 Continuity Of Functions Is Which Signum Function
Is Involved :
We know that f(x) = sgn (x) is discontinuous at
x = 0.
In general, f(x) = sgn(g(x)) is discontinuous at
x = a if g(a) = 0.

Q.5 Discuss the continuity of

(i) f(x) = sgn (x3 – x)

Sol. f ( x ) = sgn ( x −x )
3

Here x3 − x = 0 ⇒ x = 0, −1, 1 
Here f(x) is discontinuous at x=0, -1, 1

Q. (ii) f(x) = sgn(2cosx – 1)

Sol. f(x) = sgn(2cosx – 1)

Here, 2 cos x – 1 = 0
1
⇒ cosx =
2
 π
⇒ x = 2nπ ±  
 3

n ∈ Z, where f(x) is discontinuous.

Q. (
(iii) f ( x ) = sgn x2 − 2x + 3 )
Sol. f ( x ) = sgn ( x − 2x + 3 )
2

Here, x2 − 2x + 3 > 0 for all x.

Thus, f(x) = 1 for all x, hence continuous for all x.
Continuity

28.
 Q.6 If f(x) = sgn(2sinx + a) is continuous for all x, then find the possible values of
a.

Sol. f(x) = sgn(2sinx + a) is continuous for all x.

Then 2 sin x + a ≠ 0 for any real x.

a
⇒ sinx  ≠ −
2
a
⇒ > 1   ⇒ a < −2  or a > 2
2

Continuity of Functions Involving Limit lim a n  :

n →∞

0,   0  ≤ a < 1

We know that lim a =  1,   
n
a=1
n→∞
 ∞,   a >1


x2n − 1
Q.1 Discuss the continuity of f ( x ) = lim .
n→∞ x2n + 1
1  1,         x < −1
1 −   
−1,    0 ≤ x < 1 0,         x = −1
2

(x )
n
x2n − 1
2
 

Sol. f (x) = lim xn→∞ 2n
+1
= lim
n→∞ 1
=  0,     x2 = 1 −1,   − 1 < x < 1
 
1 +  
 1,    x > 1  0,            x = 1
2

(x )
n
2
 1,            x > 1

Thus, f(x) is discontinuous at x = ± 1.

Q.2 Discuss the continuity of f ( x ) = limcos2nx .

n→∞

Sol. f ( x ) = lim (cos x )

n
2
n→∞

 0,   0 ≤ cos x < 1 0,       x  ≠  nπ, n   ∈ I 

2

= =
1,        cos x = 1  1,       x  = n
2
   π, n ∈ I 

Hence, f(x) is discontinuous when x = nπ, n ∈ I.

Continuity

29.
 Functions Continuous Only At Some Points And
Defined Everywhere (Discrete Point Continuity):

x,    if x  ∈ Q
Q.1 Discuss the continuity for f x =  () .
0,    if x  ∉ Q

Sol. If x → 0+ then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0+ = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0+ = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

If x → 0− then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0− = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0− = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

Hence f(x) is continuous at x = 0.

x,      if x  ∈ Q
Q.2 Discuss the continuity for f x =  () .
 −x,    if x  ∉ Q

Sol. f(x) is continuous at some x = a, where x = – x or x = 0.

If x → 0+ then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0+ = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0+ = −0 = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

If x → 0− then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0− = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0− = −0 = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

Hence f(x) is continuous at x = 0.

x,        if x ∈ Q
Q.3 Discuss the continuity for f ( x ) =  .
1 − x,    if x ∉ Q
1
Sol. f(x) is continuous at some x = a, where x = 1 - x or x =
2
.

1
If x →
2+
then x may be rational or irrational

 1 1 1 1
⇒ f  +  =  or  1 − =  
2  2 2 2
1
If x → then x may be rational or irrational
2−
Continuity

30.
  1 1 1 1
⇒ f  −  =  or  1 − =  
2  2 2 2
1
Hence f(x) is continuous at x =
2
For some other point, say, x = 1

⇒ f(1) = 1

If x → 1 then x may be rational or irrational.

⇒ f(1) = 1 or 1 – 1 = 0

Hence, f(1) oscillates between 1 and 0, which causes discontinuity at x = 1.

 1
Similarly, f(x) oscillates between two numbers for all x ∈ R −   .
 2

 x 2 ,   if x ∈ Q
Q.4 Discuss the continuity for f ( x ) =  .
 1,     if x ∉ Q

Sol. f(x) is continuous at some x = a, where x2 = 1 or x = ±1.

For x = 1,

If x → 1+ then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 1+ = ( 1) = 1 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 1+ = 1  x 
( ∉ Q)
2

If x → 1− then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 1− = ( 1)  ( x ∈ Q ) or f 1− = 1  x  ∉ Q
( )
2

Hence, f(x) is continuous at x = 1.

For x = –1,

If x → −1( ) then x may be rational or irrational

+

⇒ f ( −1 ) = ( −1) = 1 ( x ∈ Q ) or f ( −1 ) = 1  (x  ∉ Q)

2

+ +

If x → (−1 ) then x may be rational or irrational

−

( ) ( ) (
2
) ( )
⇒ f −1¯ = −1   x ∈ Q or f −1¯ = 1  x ∉ Q ( )
Hence, f(x) is continuous at x = –1.

Continuity

31.
 Continuity of Composite Functions :

If f is continuous at x = a and g is continuous

at x = f(a) then the composite function
g[f(x)] is continuous at x = a.

xsinx
e.g. f ( x ) = and g(x) = |x| are continuous at
x2 + 2
xsinx
x = 0, hence the composite gof(x)= will
x2 + 2

also be continuous at x = 0.

x+1 1
Q.1 If f ( x ) = and g ( x ) = , then discuss the continuity of f(x), g(x) and
x−1 x−2
fog(x).

x+1
Sol. (a) f ( x ) =
x−1
∴ f(x) is not defined at x = 1. ∴ f is discontinuous at x = 1.
1
(b) g ( x ) =
x−2
g(x) is not defined at x = 2. ∴ g is discontinuous at x = 2
(c) Now, fog will be discontinuous at

x = 2 [point of discontinuity of g(x)] and when
g(x) = 1 (when value of g(x) is point of discontinuity of f(x))
1
If g(x)=1 ⇒ = 1  ⇒ x = 3 .
x−2
∴ fog (x) is discontinuous at x=2 and x=3.

1
+1
Also, fog ( x ) = x − 2  
1
−1
x−2
Here fog (2) is not defined.
1
+1
1+ x −2
lim fog ( x ) = lim x − 2 = lim = 1 
x →2 x →2 1 x → 2 1− x + 2
−1
x−2
Continuity

32.
 ∴ fog(x) is discontinuous at x = 2 and it has a removable discontinuity at x=2.
For checking continuity at x = 3.
1
+1
lim+ fog ( x ) = lim+ x − 2 = −∞
x →3 x →3 1
−1
x−2
1
+1
lim− fog ( x ) = lim− x − 2 = +∞
x →3 x →3 1
−1
x−2
∴ fog(x) is discontinuous at x = 3 and has non removable discontinuity at x = 3.

Continuity

33.