Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

CHAPTER–3
CONTINUITY AND DIFFERENTIABILITY

Outline
✪ Derivative of a function at a point

✪ Differentiability of a function and

✪ Geometrical significance of differentiation.

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

3 . 1 . Derivative (Differential coefficient) of a function at a Theorem–1. If the function f(x) is differentiable at x = a then
point : [NUH–2002, DUH–2002] the function is continuous at that point. [NUH–2012, 2015,
NUH(NM)–2002, NU(Pass)–2016, DUH(Aff. Coll.)–2018]
Let the function f(x) be defined on [a, b] and c ∈ (a, b). Now if
f(x) – f(c) Proof : Since f(x) is differentiable at x = a.
lim exists and finite, then this limit is known as the f(a + h) – f(a)
x–c
x➝ c ∴ f (a) = lim is finite
h
derivative of f(x) at x = c which we denote by f (c). h→ 0
f(a + h) – f(a)
f(x) – f(c) Now lim [f(a + h) – f(a)] = lim ×h
Therefore, f (c) = lim x–c . h
x➝ c h→ 0 h→ 0
f(a + h) – f(a)
Now if we put x – c = h, where h → 0 as x → c, then above limit = lim × lim h = f (a) × 0 = 0
h
f(c + h) – f(c) h→ 0 h→ 0
can also be written as f (c) = lim .
h ∴ lim f(a + h) = f(a) [{ f(a) is finite]
h➝ 0
h→ 0
3 . 2 . Differentiable Function : [NUH(NM)–2014] Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = a
A function f(x) is said to be differentiable at x = a if f (x) exists Remark : If a function f(x) is continuous at x = a then it may
at x = a.That is Lf (a) = Rf (a). not be differentiable at that point. This matter has been
illustrated by the following some examples.
3 . 3 . Left Hand Derivative (L. H. D) and Right Hand
3.5. Geometrical significance/Interpretation of the
Derivative (R. H. D) : derivative : [NUH–2015]
f(a – h) – f(a)
If lim exists then it is called the left derivative Let y = f(x) represent the curve APQ. Let P(x, y) be any point on
–h
h→ 0 – the curve and Q(x + ∆x, y + ∆y) be any point in the neighborhood
(L. H. D.) of f(x) at x = a and denoted by Lf (a). of P.
f(a – h) – f(a)
Thus Lf (a) = lim .
– h
h→ 0 –
f(a + h) – f(a)
If lim exists then it is called the right
h
h→ 0 +
derivative (R. H. D.) of f(x) at x = a and denoted by Rf (a).
f(a + h) – f(a)
Thus Rf (a) = lim .
h
h→ 0 +

3.4. Differentiable function in an interval : Thus, OL = x, PL = SM = y

Let y = f(x) be defined in (a, b). Now of f (x) exists at each point OM = OL + LM = x + x
in (a, b), that is if L. H. D = R. H. D, then f(x) is said to be OM = MS + SQ = y + y
differentiable function in (a, b). Let ∠QPS = ∠QNM = θ and ∠XTR = ψ

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

Now from ∆PQS, In figure–1. For an small increment of x say δx, let δy be this
QS QM – SM QM – PL dy
tan QPS = PS = = corresponding small increment in y, then dx > 0. On the other
LM OM – OL
y + ∆y – y ∆y hand.
or tan θ = x + ∆x – x = ∆x
In figure–2. For an small increment of x say δx, if δy be the
Now if Q → P, then ∆x → 0 and the straight line QPN becomes dy
correspanding decrement in y, then dx < 0.
the straight line TPR. In this case θ → ψ, which in the inclination
of the tangent at P with the +ve direction of x-axis. 3.7. Differential : If f (x) is the derivative of f(x) and ∆x is an
∆y dy increment of x, then the differential of f(x) denoted by the symbol
∴ Slope of PT = lim tan θ = lim ∆x = dx
θ➝ ψ ∆x ➝ 0 df(x)), is defined by the relation df(x) = f (x) ∆x ...... (1)
dy
∴ tan ψ = dx If f(x) = x, then f (x) = 1 and therefore (1) becomes to dx = ∆x.

Therefore the slope of the tangent drawn at P(x, y) of the curve Thus if y = f(x), then the differential of y is defined by

y = f(x) is equal to the derivative. Which is the geometric dy = f (x) dx.

interpretation of the derivative of function y = f(x). Example : If = y = x2, then dy = 2x dx.

3.6. Sign of derivative : 3.8. Geometrical representation of the Differential of a

Let y = f(x) be continuous and differentiable function. The function :
increment of independent variable x is δx and for this, changes Let y = f(x) represent the curve APQ. The derivative exists at
of y is δy.
every point of the curve. Take a point P(x, y) and Q(x + ∆x, y + ∆y)
on the curve APQ, PD is the tangent at P.

Fig–1 Fig–2

δx dy
If y is increasing, then δy > 0. In this case lim = > 0,
δx dx
δx ➝ 0
since δx is always +ve and if y is decreasing, then δy < 0. In this
δy dy
case lim = < 0 since δx is always +ve.
δx dx
δx ➝ 0 Let ∠CPD = ψ, PC = ∆x = dx, QC = ∆y, CD = dy

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

CD CD 1
Thus tan ψ = PC = ∆x Differentiability tet at x = 2 :
CD
⇒ f (x) = ∆x [{ the value of the derivatives at a point 1  1 
f  2 + h – f  2 
1     
on a curve is equal to the slope of the Rf  2  = lim
  h→ 0 + h
tangent at that point.]
⇒ CD = f (x) ∆x 1  1
1 –  2 + h – 2
or CD = f (x) ∆x = df(x) = dy  
= lim
or dy = f (x) dx h
h→ 0 +
The symbols dx and dy are also called differentials (–h)
= lim
(differential x and differential y). h = lim + (–1) = – 1
dy h→ 0 + h→ 0
If dx ≠ 0, then dx = f (x) or derivative of f(x) at x.
1  1 
f  2 – h – f  2 
1     
and Lf  2  = lim
SOLVED EXAMPLES   h→ 0 – –h

when 0 ≤ x < 1/2 1  1

5
x
Example–1. If f(x) = 1 – x when 1/2 ≤ x < 1 then show that  2 – h – 2
 
1 = lim
f(x) is continuous at x = 2 but f(x) is not differentiable at that –h
h→ 0 –
point.] [NUH–2012, NUH(NM)–2006, KUH–2005] – h
= lim – h = lim 1 = 1
1 h→ 0 – h→ 0 –
Solution : Continuity test at x = 2 :
1  1 
1 1 Since Rf  2  ≠ Lf  2  .
lim
+
f(x) = lim (1 – x) = 1 – 2 = 2
+
   
x→ 12 x→ 12 1
So the function f(x) is not differentiable at x = 2.
1
lim f(x) = lim x=2 1
– – In the above example, we see that f(x) is continuous at x = 2 but
x→ 12 x→ 12
1 not differentiable at that point.
when x = 2 then f(x) = 1 – x
Example–2. Show that the function f(x) = x2 + 2 is continuos
1  1 1 and differentiable at x = 1. [NUH–2012]
∴f  2 = 1 – 2 = 2
  Solution : Discussion on continuity of the function f(x) at
1  x=1:
Thus lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f  2 
+ –   lim f(x) = lim (x2 + 2) = 1 +2 = 3
x→ 12 x→ 12 x→ 1 + x→ 1 +
1 lim f(x) = lim (x2 + 2) = 1 + 2 = 3
So the function f(x) is continuous at x = 2 . x→ 1 – x→ 1 –

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

and f(1) = 12 + 2 = 3 2nd Part : Differentiability test at x = 1 :

∴ lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(1) f(1 + h) – f(1)
Rf (1) = lim
x→ 1 + x→ 1 – h
h→ 0 +
So f(x) is continuous at x = 1. 1+h–1
= lim h
Discussion on differentiability of the function f(x) at x = 1. h→ 0 +
f(1 + h) – f(1) h
Rf (1) = lim = lim h = lim (1) = 1
h
h→ 0 + h→ 0 + h→ 0 +
(1 + h)2 + 2 – 3 f(1 – h) – f(1)
= lim Lf (1) = lim
h – h
h→ 0 + h→ 0 –
2h + h2 1–1 0
= lim = lim (h + 2) = lim
h – h = lim –h = 0
h→ 0 + h→ 0 + h→ 0 – h→ 0 –
= (0 + 2) = 2 Since Rf (1) ≠ Lf (1), so f(x) is not differentiable at x = 1.
f(1 – h) – f(1) Example–4. If f(x) = |x – 1| then test the continuity and
and Lf (1) = lim –h
h→ 0 – differentiability of the function f(x) at the point x = 1.
(1 – h) 2 + 2 – 3 Solution : We now test the Continuity at x = 1 :
= lim –h lim f(x) = lim |x – 1| = 0
h→ 0 –
x→ 1 + x→ 1 +
–2h + h2
= lim lim f(x) = lim |x – 1| = 0 and f(1) = 0
–h
h→ 0 – x→ 1 – x→ 1 –
= lim (2 – h) = 2 – 0 = 2 Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(1), so f(x) is continuous at x = 1.
h→ 0 – x→ 1 + x→ 1 –
Since Rf (1) = Lf (1) = 2, so f(x) is differentiable at x = 1. We now test the differentiability
That is f (1) exists and f (1) = 2. f(1 + h) – f(1)
Rf (1) = lim
1, x ≤ 1 h
Example–3. If f(x) = 5 x, x > 1 test the continuity and
h→ 0 +
|1 + h – 1| – 0
differentiability at x = 1. [NUH(NM)–2009] = lim h
h→ 0 +
Solution : 1st Part : Continerty test at x = 1
h
lim f(x) = lim x = 1 = lim h = 1
x→ 1 + x→ 1 + h→ 0 +
and lim f(x) = lim 1 = 1 f(1 – h) – f(1)
x→ 1 – x→ 1 – Lf (1) = lim –h
h→ 0 –
When x = 1, f(1) = 1. (– h) – 0
Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(1) = lim =–1
– h
x→ 1 + x→ 1 + h→ 0 –
So f(x) is continuous at x = 1. Since Rf (1) ≠ Lf (1), so f(x) is not differentiable at x = 1.

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

π Example–6. Test the continuity and differentialbility of f(x)

Example–5. Discuss the continuity of f(x) at x = 2 π
at x = 2.
tan π2 when 0 ≤ x ≤
π
2 
1 when x < 0

 π π π

f(x) = 
3–2 when x = 2 Where, f(x) = 
1 + sinx when 0 ≤ x < 2

x – π8
π 2 π
3
π 
2+ x–2 1
when x ≥ 2 2
 x – π2 when 2 < x
[NUH–2017, NUH(NM)–2016, NU(Pass)–2016]
Solution : Given function
π π π π
Solution : When x = 2, then f(x) = 3 – 2 ∴ f 2 = 3 – 2 12 1
 when x < 0
π
f(x) = 
1 + sinx when 0 ≤ x <
π 2
x3 – 8 2 + x – π 2
π
Now,
lim
π + f(x) =
lim
π+ π  1 22 when x ≥ 2
x➝ 2 x➝ 2 x – 2 2
π π
π π π2
When x = 2, then f(x) = 2 + x – 2 1 2
1 x–2 21x2 + x • 2 + 4 2 π π π 2
=
lim
π+ π 12 1
∴f 2 = 2 + 2 – 2 2
x➝ 2 1x–2 2 =2+0
πx π 2 π
1 2
lim =2
= x2 + 2 + 4 , x≠ 2
π+
lim  π 2
1 2
x➝ 2 lim
2 + x –
2 
f(x) =
π + π +
2 2 x➝ 2 x➝ 2 
π π π π
= 2 12 +2•2 + 2 12 π π 2
3π 2
=2+ 2 –2 1 2
= 4
=2
lim lim
12
lim lim x
π – f(x) = π – tan 2 π – f(x) = π – (1 + sin x)
x➝ 2 x➝ 2 x➝ 2 x➝ 2
π
π
12 = 1 + sin 2
= tan 4
=1+1
=1
=2
π
12
lim lim π
∴ π + f(x) ≠ π – f(x) ≠ f 2 12
lim lim
x➝ 2 x➝ 2 π + f(x) = π – f(x) = f 2
x➝ 2 x➝ 2
π π
Therefore, f(x) is discontinous at x = 2 . Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = 2

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

f(π/2 + h) – f(π/2) Example–7. Test the continuity and differentiability of the

Again, Rf (π/2) = lim h function f(x) = |x| + |x – 1| at the point x = 0 and x = 1.
h➝ 0
π π 2 [NUH–2014, NUH(NM)–2017]

= lim
1
2+ 2+h–2 2 –2 Solution : Given function f(x) = |x| + |x – 1| ..... (1)
h When x < 0, then f(x) = – x – (x – 1)
h➝ 0
h2 =–x–x+1
= lim h
h➝ 0 = 1 – 2x
= lim h When 0 ≤ x < 1, then f(x) = x – (x – 1)
h➝ 0 =x–x+1
=0 =1

π 1
f π/2 – h – f π/2 2 1 2 When x ≥ 1, then f(x) = x + x – 1
12
Lf 2 = lim
h➝ 0
(– h) = 2x – 1
π ∴ The function f(x) can be written as-
1
1 + sin 2 – h – 2 2 1 – 2x when x < 0
f(x) = 
= lim 0≤ x < 1
h➝ 0
(– h) 2x1– 1 when
when x ≥ 1
1 + cosh – 2
= lim Continutiy at x = 0
h
h ➝ 0–
When x = 0, then f(x) = 1, ∴ f(0) = 1
– (1 – cos h)
= lim lim f(x) = lim 1 = 1
h
h➝ 0 x ➝ 0+ x ➝ 0+
h ∴ lim f(x) = lim (– 2x + 1)
2sin 2 2 x ➝ 0+ x ➝ 0–
= – lim h = – 2.0 + 1
h➝ 0
h =1
2 sin 2 h ∴ lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(0)
= – lim • sin
h 2 x ➝ 0+ x ➝ 0–
h➝ 0
2
Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = 0.
12
h
sin 2 Now, continuity at x = 1
12
h
= – lim • lim sin
When x = 1, then f(x) = 2x – 1, ∴f(1) = 2.1 – 1 = 1
12
h 2
h➝ 0 h➝ 0
2 lim f(x) = lim (2x – 1) = 2.1 – 1 = 1
=–1× 0 x ➝ 1+ x ➝ 1+
lim f(x) = lim 1 = 1
=0
x ➝ 1– x ➝ 1–
π
12
Since Rf = Lf 2 = 0 ∴ lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(1)
x ➝ 1– x ➝ 1–
π
Therefore f(x) is differentiable at x = 2 . Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = 1.

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

Now, Differentibility at x = 0 f(1 – h) – f(1)

∴ Lf (1) = lim – h
f (0 + h) – f(0) h➝ 0
∴ Rf (0) = lim h 1– 1
h➝ 0 = lim h
1–1 h➝ 0
= lim h
h➝ 0 0
= lim h
0 h➝ 0
= lim h =0
h➝ 0 =0
When x < 0, then f(x) = 1 – 2x since Rf (1) ≠ Lf (1)
f(0 – h) – f(0)
∴ Lf = lim Therefore f(x) is not differentiable at x = 1.
(– h)
h➝ 0
 2
12
1
1 – 2 (0 – h) – 1 x cos x when x ≠ 0
= lim Example–8. If f(x) = 
 find f (0).
– h
h➝ 0  0 when x = 0
2h
= lim (– h) Solution : Given function
x 2 cos 1 when x ≠ 0
h➝ 0
= lim (– 2) f(x) = 
 x 12
h➝ 0  0 when x = 0
=–2 when x = 0, then f(x) = 0 ∴ f(0) = 0
Since Rf (0) ≠ Lf (0).
12
1
when x > 0 then f(x) = x2 cos x
Therefore f(x) is not differentiable at x = 0.
f(0 + h) – f(0)
Differentiability at x = 1 ∴ Rf (0) = lim h
h➝ 0
when x > 1, then f(x) = 2x – 1
12
1
∴ f(1) = 2.1 – 1 = 1 h 2 cos h – 0
= lim
f(1 + h) – f(1) h
∴ Rf (1) = lim h➝ 0
h
h➝ 0
12
1
2(1 + h) – 1 – 1 = lim h cos h
= lim h➝ 0
h
h➝ 0
12
1
2h = lim (h) • lim cos h
= lim h h➝ 0 h➝ 0
h➝ 0
12
1
= lim 2 = 0 (since as h → 0 the value of cos h lies between – 1
h➝ 0
and + 1)
=2
12
1
when x < 1 then f(x) = 1 when x < 0 then f(x) = x2 cos x

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

f(0 – h) – f(0) Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(0)

Lf (0) = lim h ➝ 0+ h ➝ 0–
(– h)
h➝ 0
Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = 0
12
1
h 2 cos h – 0 f(0 + h) – f(0)
= lim Now, Rf (0) = lim
(– h) h
h➝ 0 h➝ 0

12
1
12
1
= lim (– h) cos h h sin h – 0
12
1
h➝ 0 = lim = lim sin h
h
h➝ 0 h➝ 0
12
1
= lim (– h) • lim cos h
Which does not exist
h➝ 0 h➝ 0
f(0 – h) – f(0)
=0 Lf (0) = lim (– h)
h➝ 0
since Rf (0) = Lf (0) = 0

12
1
∴ f (0) = 0 h sin h – 0
= lim
Example–9. Investigate the continuity and differentiability (– h)
h➝ 0
of the point x = 0
12
1
 = – lim sin h , which does not exist.
12
1
x sin x when x ≠ 0
f(x) = 
h➝ 0
0 when x = 0 ∴ Rf (0) ≠ Lf (0)
Solution : Given function ∴ f(x) is not differentiable at x = 0

12
1 Example–10. Discuss the continuity and differentiability at
x sin x when x ≠ 0
f(x) =  π
0 when x = 0 x = 0 and x = 2 of the function
when x = 0, then f(x) = 0 ∴ f(0) = 0  1 when x < 0
π
12  when 0 ≤ x <
1 1 + sin x
when x > 0, then f(x) = x sin x f(x) = 2
 π
∴ lim f(x) = lim x sin x
1
12 2 + ( x – (π/2)) when x ≥ 2
2

x ➝ 0+ x ➝ 0+ [NUH–2002, 2004, 2010, NUH(NM)–2010, 2014, 2016

= 0 × (any number between – 1 to 1) BSc(Pass)–2008, 2010]
=0 Solution : Firstly, Continuity test at x = 0 :

12
1 R. H. L. = lim f(x) = lim (1 + sin x) = 1
when x < 0, then f(x) = x sin x x ➝ 0+ x ➝ 0+

12
1 L. H. L. = lim f(x) = lim 1 = 1
∴ lim f(x) = lim x sin x x ➝ 0– x ➝ 0–
x ➝ 0– x ➝ 0–
= 0 × (any number between – 1 to 1 and f(0) = 1 + sin 0 = 1

=0 Since R. H. L = L. H. L, so f(x) is continuous at x = 0.

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

π π 2
Secondly, differentiability test at x = 0 : 2 +  2 + h – 2 – 2
f(0 + h) – f(0)  
Rf (0) = lim = lim
h h
h ➝ 0+ h→ 0 +
h2
= lim
= lim
1 + sinh – (1 + sin 0) h = lim + h = 0
h h→ 0 + h→ 0
h ➝ 0+
π  π 
sinh f  2 – h – f  2 
= lim h =1 π     
Lf  2  = lim
h ➝ 0+   h→ 0 –h
–
f(0 – h) – f(0)
Lf (0) = lim π 
– h 1 + sin  2 – h – 2
h ➝ 0–  
1 – (1 + sin 0) = lim –h
= lim =0 h→ 0 –
– h
h ➝ 0– cos h – 1
= lim – h
Since Rf (0) ≠ Lf (0), so the given function is not differentiable h→ 0 –
at x = 0. h
– 2 sin2 2
π = lim
Thirdly : Continuity test of f(x) at x = 2. – h
h→ 0 –
  π  2 π π 2  sin h  2
lim f(x) = lim 2 +  x – 2   = 2 +  2 – 2 = 2  2 h
+ +      = lim  h  . 2 = 0
x→ 1 π22 x→ π2 h→ 0 –  2 
π
lim f(x) = lim (1 + sin x) = 1 + sin 2 = 2 π π  π
– – Since Rf  2  = Lf
 2  , so f(x) is differentiable at x = 2 .
x→ π2 x→ π2    
x 2 sin ( 1/x) when x ≠ 0
π  π π 2
and f  2  = 2 +  2 – 2 = 2
Example–11. If f(x) = 0 5 when x = 0 then show
    that at x = 0 f(x) is differentiable but f (x) is not continuous.
π  [BSc(Pass)–2007]
Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f  2  Solution : When x = 0, f(x) = 0 ⇒ f(0) = 0
π+ π–  
x→ x→ f(0 + h) – f(0)
2 2 Now, Rf (0) = lim h
π h→ 0 +
So f(x) is continuous at x = 2. 1
h 2 sin h – 0
π = lim
Finally : Differentiability test of f(x) at x = 2 . h
h→ 0 +
π  π  1 1
f  2 + h – f  2  = lim h sin h = 0 Since – 1 ≤ sin h ≤ 1
π      h→ 0 +
Rf  2  = lim
  h→ 0 + h
=0

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 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

f(0 – h) – f(0) f(0 – h) – f(0)

Lf (0) = lim Lf (0) = lim
– h –h
h→ 0 – h→ 0 –
1 1
+ h2 sin h – h + h4/3 sin h – 0
= lim = lim
– h – h
h→ 0 – h→ 0 –
1  1
= lim h sin h = 0 = lim  1 – h 1/3 sin h  = 1 + 0 = 1
h→ 0 –  
h→ 0 –
Since Rf (0) = Lf (0) = 0, so f(x) is differentiable at x = 0. Since Rf (0) = Lf (0) = 1, ∴ f (0) = 1.
Example–13. Test the continuity and differentiability of the
1  1 
Again f (x) = 2x sin  x  – cos  x  when x ≠ 0 
    function f(x)  (1 – x ) when |x| ≤ 1
2
at every point.
 sin πx when |x| > 1
=0 when x = 0
Solution : Given function
 1 1 
f(x)  (1 – x ) when |x| ≤ 1
2
R. H. L. = lim f (x) = lim 2x sin x – cos x 
x→ 0 + x→ 0 +    sin πx when |x| > 1

1 1 Continuity at x = 1
= 2 lim x sin x – lim cos x
x→ 0 + x→ 0 + when x = 1, then f(x) = 1 – x 2 ∴f(1) = 1–1=0
1 when x > 1, then f(x) = sin πx
= 0 – lim cos x = limit does not exist.
∴ lim f(x) = lim sin πx = sin π = 0
x→ 0 + x ➝ 1+ x ➝ 1+
So f (x) is not continuous at x = 0. = 1–1
x + x 4/3 sin 1 when x ≠ 0 =0
Example–12. If f(x) =  x then find Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = (1)
 0 when x = 0 x ➝ 1+ x ➝ 1–
f (0) if exists.
Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = 1.
Solution : When x = 0, f(x) = 0 ⇒ f(0) = 0 Now, Continuity at x = – 1
f(0 + h) – f(0)
Rf (0) = lim when x = – 1, then f(x) = 1 – x 2 ∴ f(– 1) = 1–1=0
h
h→ 0 + when x > – 1, then f(x) = 1– x2
1
h + h 4/3 sin h – 0 lim f(x) = lim 1 – x2
= lim x ➝ –1 + x ➝ –1 +
h
h→ 0 + = 1–1
1   1
 ≤ 1  =0
= lim 1 + h1/3 sin h = 1 + 0 = 1  { sin h
 
h→ 0 + when x < – 1, then f(x) = sin πx

11
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

∴ lim f(x) = lim sin πx (2 – h) • h

x ➝ –1 – x ➝ –1 – = – lim
h➝ 0 h h
= sin (– π)
= – sin π 2–h
= – lim
h➝ 0 h
=0
Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(–1) 2
x ➝ –1 + x ➝ –1 – = – lim –1
h➝ 0 h
Therefore f(x) is continuous at x = – 1
which does not exist.
Differentiability of f(x) at x = 1
∴ f(x) is not differentiable at x = 1.
when x = 1, then f(x) = 1 – x 2, ∴f(1) = 1–1=0
At last, we discuss the differentiability at x = – 1
when x > 1, then f(x) = sin πx
f(1 + h) – f(1) when x = – 1, then f(x) = 1 – x 2, ∴ f(– 1) = 1–1=0
Rf (1) = lim h
h➝ 0 when x > – 1, then f(x) = 1 – x 2
sin π (1 + h) – 0 f(– 1 + h) – f(– 1)
= lim h ∴ Rf (– 1) = lim h
h➝ 0 h➝ 0
sin (π +πh)
= lim 1 – (– 1 + h)2 – 0
h = lim
h➝ 0 h
h➝ 0
– sin (πh)
= lim (1 – 1 + h) (1 + 1 – h)
h
h➝ 0 = lim h
sin πh • h➝ 0
= – lim π
πh h 2–h
h➝ 0 = lim
= –1•π h➝ 0 h h

=–π 2
= lim –1
when x < 1 then f(x) = 1 – x2 h➝ 0 h
f(1 – h) – f(1)
Lf (1) = lim which does not exist.
(– h)
h➝ 0
When x < – 1, then f(x) = sin πx
1 – (1 – h)2 – 0 f(– 1 – h) – f(– 1)
= lim ∴ Lf (– 1) = lim
(– h) (– h)
h➝ 0 h➝ 0
(1 + 1 – h) (1 – 1 + h) sin (1 + h) π – 0
= lim = – lim
(– h) (– h)
h➝ 0 h➝ 0
(2 – h) • h sin (π + πh)
= – lim = lim
(– h) h
h➝ 0 h➝ 0

12
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

sin πh Differentiability test at x = – 3 :

= – lim h
h➝ 0 f(– 3 + h) – f(– 3)
Rf (– 3) = lim
sin πh h
h➝ 0 +
πh × π
= – lim
h➝ 0 4–4
= lim h =0
=–π h➝ 0 +
f(– 3 – h) – f(– 3)
Since Rf (– 1) ≠ Lf (– 1) and Lf (– 3) = lim –h
h➝ 0 –
∴ f(x) is not differentiable at x = – 1.
– 2 (– 3 – h) – 2 – 4
= lim
Example–14. If f(x) = |x – 1| + |x + 3| then discuss the h
h➝ 0 –
continuity and differentiability of the function at x = – 3 and
2h
= lim
x = 1. [NUH–2008, NUH(NM)–2015, 2018] h =2
h➝ 0 –
Solution : Given function f(x) = |x – 1| + |x + 3|
Since Rf ( – 3) ≠ Lf (– 3)
 x – 1 + x + 3 when x ≥ 1
=  – 1) + x + 3 when – 3 ≤ x < 1 So f(x) is not differentiable at x = – 3.
–– (x
(x – 1) – (x + 3) when x < – 3
Differentiability test at x = 1 :
 2x + 2 when x ≥ 1 f(1 + h) – f(1)
= 4 when – 3 ≤ x < 1 Rf (1) = lim
 h
– 2x – 2 when x < – 3 h➝ 0 +
2(1 + h) + 2 – (2 + 2)
Continuity test at x = – 3 : = lim h
h➝ 0 +
R. H. L = lim f(x) = lim 4=4
x ➝ –3 + x ➝ –3 + 2h
= lim h =2
L. H. S = lim f(x) = lim (– 2x – 2) = 6 – 2 = 4 h➝ 0 +
x ➝ –3 – x ➝ –3 –
f(1 – h) – f(1)
and Lf (1) = lim
and f(– 3) = 4 –h
h➝ 0 –
Since R. H. L = L. H. L = f(– 3) 4 – (2 + 2)
= lim =0
h
So f(x) is continuous at x = – 3. h➝ 0 –

Continuity test at x = 1 : Since Rf (1) ≠ Lf (1)

R. H. L = lim f(x) = lim (2x + 2) = 4 So f(x) is not differentiable at x = 1.
x➝ 1 + x➝ 1 +
Example–15. Prove that the function f(x) = |x – 3| is
L. H. L = lim f(x) = lim 4 = 4 and f(1) = 2 + 2 = 4
differentiable everywhere except at x = 3. [NUH–2015]
x➝ 1 – x➝ 1 –
x – 3, 3 ≤ x
Since R. H. L = L. H. L = f(1), so f(x) is continuous at x = 1. 5
Solution : Given function f(x) = |x – 3| = – (x – 3), x < 3

13
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

f(3 + h) – f(3) ∴ Rf (b) = Lf (b) when b > 3.

Now Rf (3) = lim h
h ➝ 0+
So f(x) is differentiable at x = b.
3 – h + 3 – (3 – 3)
= lim =1 Therefore f(x) is differentiable everywhere except at x = 3.
h
h ➝ 0+
 5x – 4 when 0 < x ≤ 1
and Lf (3) = lim
f(3 – h) – f(3) Example–16. If f(x) = 4x2 – 3x when 1 < x < 2 test the
h ➝ 0–
–h  3x + 4 when x ≥ 2
– (3 – h – 3) – (3 – 3) differentiability of f(x) at x = 1 and x = 2. [NUH–2007, 2010(Old)]
= lim =–1
– h
h ➝ 0– Solution : At x = 1
Since Rf ≠ Rf (3), f(1 + h) – f(1)
Rf (1) = lim h
so f(x) is not differentiable at x = 3. h➝ 0 +

Let x = a, a < 3. 4(1 + h)2 – 3(1 + h) – (5 – 4)

= lim h
f(a + h) – f(a) h➝ 0 +
In this case Rf (a) = lim h
h ➝ 0+ 4(2h + h2) – 3h
= lim
– (a + h – 3) + (a – 3) h
h➝ 0 +
= lim h
h ➝ 0+ = lim (5 + 4h) = 5
– h h➝ 0 +
= lim h =–1 f(1 – h) – f(1)
h ➝ 0+ and Lf (1) = lim – h
f(a – h) – f(a) h➝ 0 –
Lf (a) = lim – h 5(1 – h) – 4 – (5 – 4)
h ➝ 0– = lim
– (a – h + 3) + (a + 3) – h
h➝ 0 –
= lim =–1
– h
h ➝ 0– –5h
= lim –h = 5
∴ Rf (a) = Lf (a) when a < 3, so f(x) is differentiable at x = a. h➝ 0 –
Again let x = b, b > 3 Since Rf (1) = Lf (1), so f(x) is differentiable at x = 1.
f(b + h) – f(b)
In this case Rf (b) = lim Again, at x = 2
h
h ➝ 0+
f(2 + h) – f(2)
b + h + 3 – (b + 3) Rf (2) = lim
= lim =1 h
h h➝ 0 +
h ➝ 0+
f(b – h) – f(b) 3(2 + h) + 4 – (3.2 + 4)
Lf (b) = lim = lim
–h h
h ➝ 0– h➝ 0 +
b – h – 3 – (b – 3) 3h
= lim =1 = lim
–h h =3
h ➝ 0– h➝ 0 +

14
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

and Lf (2) = lim

f(2 – h) – f(2)  3 + 2x when – 3/2 < x ≤ 0
–h Example–18. If f(x) = – 33 ––2x
2x when 0 < x < 3/2
h➝ 0 –
when x ≥ 3/2
4(2 – h) 2 – 3(2 – h) – (6 + 4)
= lim 3
–h Discuss the differentiability of the functions at x = 0 and x = 2.
h➝ 0 –
4(–4h + h 2) + 3h
= lim = 13 [NUH–2009, 2015, 2016, 2018, NUH(NM)–2007]
–h
h➝ 0 –
Solution : At x = 0
Since Rf (2) ≠ Lf (2), so the given function is not differentiable f(0 + h) – f(0) 3 – 2h – (3 + 0)
at x = 2. Rf (0) = lim = lim =–2
h h
h➝ 0 + h➝ 0 +
x 2 + 1 when x ≤ 0
Example–17. If f(x) =  x when 0 < x < 1 then discuss the f(0 + h) – f(0) 3 + 2h – (3 + 0)
 1/x when x ≥ 1 and Lf (0) = lim = lim =2
h h
h➝ 0 – h➝ 0 –
differentiability at x = 0 and x = 1.
[NUH–2003, NUH(NM)–2009, BSc(Pass)–2011] Since Rf (0) ≠ Lf (0), so f(x) is not differentiable at x = 0
3
Solution : At x = 0, Again at x = 2 ,
f(0 + h) – f(0)
Rf (0) = lim
1
3
2 12
h 3
h➝ 0 + f 2+h –f 2
12
3
Rf 2 = lim
h – (0 2 + 1) h
= lim h➝ 0 +
h
h➝ 0 +
1
3
2
– 3 – 2 2 + h – (– 3 – 3)
1
1
= lim
h➝ 0 +
1– h =–∞2 = lim
h➝ 0 +
h

Since Rf (0) does not exist, so f(x) in not differentiable at x = 0. – 2h

= lim h =–2
Again at x = 1 h➝ 0 +
1
1
3
2 12
3
f(1 + h) – f(1) 1+h–1 f 2–h –f 2
12
Rf (1) = lim = lim 3
h h and Lf 2 = lim
h➝ 0 + h➝ 0 + –h
h➝ 0 –
1–1–h –1
1
3
= lim
h➝ 0 +
h(1 + h) = lim 1 + h = – 1
h➝ 0 + = lim
2
3 – 2 2 – h – (– 3 – 3)
–h
f(1 – h) – f(1) h➝ 0 –
Again, Lf (1) = lim – h + 2h + 6
h➝ 0 – = lim =–∞
–h
1–h–1 h➝ 0 –
= lim =1
– h
12
3
12
3
h➝ 0 – Since Rf 2 ≠ Lf 2
Since Rf (1) ≠ Lf (1), so the given function is not differentiable 3
So the given function is not differentiable at x = 2 .
at x = 1.

15
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

Example–19. Find the slope of tangent line to the curve Solution : Continuity at x = 1.
y= x2 + 1 at the point (2, 5). [NUH–2014] lim f(x) = lim (2 – x) = 1
x➝ 1 + x➝ 1 +
Solution : Let y = f(x) = x2 + 1 lim f(x) = lim (x) = 1
x➝ 1 – x➝ 1 –
The slope of the tangent at (2, 5), that is at x = 2
and f(1) = 2 – 1 = 1
1dx2
dy
= f (2)
x=2 Since lim f(x) = lim f(x) = f(1)
x➝ 1 + x➝ 0 –
f(2 + h) – f(2)
= lim h So f(x) is continuous at at x = 1.
h➝ 0
(2 + h)2 + 1 – (22 + 1) Differentiability at x = 1 :
= lim h
h➝ 0 f(1 + h) – f(1)
Rf (1) = lim h
4h + h2 h➝ 0 +
= lim h
h➝ 0 (1 + h) – (2 – 1)
= lim h
= lim (4 + h) = 4. h➝ 0 +
h➝ 0
h
= lim h = 1
N. B. Suppose the tangents at drawn to the curve y = f(x) at the h➝ 0 +
point (x, y). f(1 – h) – f(1)
Lf (1) = lim –h
Now (i) tangents will be parallel to x-axis or perpendicular to h➝ 0 –
dy (1 + 1 – h) – (2 – 1)
y-axis when dx = 0. = lim – h
h➝ 0 –
(ii) Tangents will be parallel to y-axis or perpendicular to x- 1–h
h =∞
dx = = lim
axis when dy = 0. h➝ 0 –

(iii) If the tangents subtend equal angles with the coordinate Since Rf (1) ≠ Lf (1), so f(x) is not differentiable at x = 1.
dy
axis, then dx = ± 1. Similarly we can find the continuity and differentiability
at x = 2.
1 + x, x ≤ 0
 x, 0<x<1
Example–20. If f(x) = 2 – x, 1 ≤ x ≤ 2
2x – x2, x > 2

then test the continuity and differentiability of the function

f(x) at the point x = 1 and x = 2. [NU(Pass)–2015]

16
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

EXERCISE–3 7. What is the differentiability in an open interval?

Part–A : Brief/Quiz Questions with Answers Ans : A function f(x) is said to be differentiable in an open
interval (a, b) if f (x) exists at each point in (a, b).
1. Define derivative of a function at a point.
8. What is the differentiability in a closed interval?
[NUH(NM)–2012]
Ans : A function f(x) is said to be differentiable in a closed
Ans : Let f(x) be defined at x = a.
interval [a, b] if f (a) exists at each point in (a, b).
f(a + h) – f(a) ......
Then f (a) = lim (1) is called the 9. What is the relation between continuity and
h
h➝ 0
differentiability? [NUH–2014, 2015, NUH(NM)–2014]
derivative of f(x) at x = a if limit of (1) exists.
Ans : A function f(x) which is differentiable at x = a is also
2. What is the differentiable function?
continuous at x = a.
Ans : A function f(x) is said to be differentiable at x = a if its
dy
L. H. D = R. H. D that is f (x) exists at x = a. 10. What is dx in geometrically? [NUH–2016, 2018]
3. What is called left hand derivative? [NUH(NM)–2010] Ans : The derivatives at a point on a curve is equal to the slope
f(a + h) – f(a)
Ans : If lim exists, then it is called the left of the tangent at that point.
h
h➝ 0 – 11. Let f(x) is continuous at x = a. Is the function
hand derivative of f(x) at x = a. It is denoted by Lf (a). differentiable at that point?
f(a + h) – f(a)
Therefore, Lf (a) = lim Ans : If a function f(x) is continuous at x = a, then it may not be
h
h➝ 0 –
differentiable at x = a.
4. What is called right hand derivative? [NUH(NM)–2010]
12. Let f(x) is discontinuous at x = a. What is the
f(a + h) – f(a)
Ans : If lim exists, then it is called the right differentiability of the functions at that point?
h
h➝ 0 +
Ans : If a function f(x) is discontinuous at x = a, then it is not
hand derivative of f(x) at x = a. It is denoted by Rf (a).
f(a + h) – f(a) differentiable at that point.
Therefore, Rf (a) = lim .
h 13. Let f(x) is not-differerentiable at x = a. What is the
h➝ 0 +
continuity of the function at that point?
5. What is the one sided derivatives?
Ans : Left hand derivative or right hand derivative is called Ans : If a function f(x) is not differentiable at x = a, then it may
one sided derivative. be continuous or not at that point.

6. Write the conditions for differentiability of f(x) at x = a. 14. Draw a sample graph of f(x) such that it is continuous
and differentiable at x = a.
[NUH(NM)–2010, 2015, 2018, DUH(Aff. Coll.)–2017]
Ans : The conditions for the function f(x) is said to be Ans :
differentiable at x = a.
(i) Lf (a) will exist and be finite
(ii) Rf (a) will exist and be finite In the above figure, y = f(x) is continuous and
(iii) Lf (a) = Rf (a). differentiable at x = a.

17
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

15. Draw a sample graph of y = f(x) such that it is continuous 22. Which is the interval where the function f(x) = |x| is
differentiable?
but not-differentiable at x = a.
Ans : f(x) = |x| is differentiable for all real values of x
Ans : excluding 0 that is in (– ∞, 0) and (0, ∞), f(x) is
differentiable.
23. Which is the interval where the function f(x) = |x – 1|
+ |x – 2| is differentiable?
In the above figure, y = f(x) is continuous but not
Ans : f(x) = |x – 1| + |x – 2| is differentiable for all real values
differentiable at x = 0.
of x without x = 1 and x = 2.
16. Draw a sample graph of y = f(x) such that it is not
That is in (– ∞, 1) and (2, ∞), f(x) is differentiable.
continuous and differentiable.
24. Which are the points where the function f(x) = |x + 1|
Ans : + |x| + |x – 1| is not differentiable?
Ans : f(x) is not differentiable at x = –1, 0, 1.

Part–B : Short Questions

In the above figure, f(x) is continuous at x = a but not
differentiable. 1. Show that the function f(x) = |x| is continuous at x = 0
but not differentiable at the point.
17. Which are the points where the polynomial function
2. Show that the function f(x) = sin 2x is differentiable at
y = a0 xn + a1 xn–1 + ... + an is differentiable?
every where.
Ans : For all real values of x, y = f(x) is differentiable. So f(x) is
 xsin(1/ x) when x ≠0
differentiable in (– ∞, ∞). 3. Show that f(x) =  is conti-
 0 when x =0
18. Which is the interval where the function y = sinx is
nuous at x = 0 but not differentiable at that point.
differentiable?
[NUH(NM)–2003]
Ans : For all real values of x that is in (– ∞, ∞), y = sinx is
4. Let f(x) = x|x|. Show that Rf (0) = 0 and Lf (0) = 0.
differentiable.
5. Show that the function f(x) = [x] is not differentiable at
19. Which is the interval where the function y = cos x is the point x = 1.
differentiable? 6. Show that the function f(x) = x2 is differentiable in the
Ans : y = cos x is differentiable in (– ∞, ∞). interval [0, 3].
2 0 . Which is the interval where the function y = ex is 7. Show that the function f(x) = |x + 3| is not differentiable
differentiable? in the interval [– 5, 5].

Ans : y = ex in differentiable in (– ∞, ∞). 8. Show that each of the following functions is

differentiable at any point.
21. Which is the interval where the functions f(x) = ln x is
(i) f(x) = 2x + 5 (ii) f(x) = x2 + 3
differentiable?
1
Ans : f(x) = ln x is differentiable in (0, ∞). (iii) f(x) = cos x (iv) f(x) = x – 1 (x ≠ 1)

18
 Continuity and Differentiability (Ch–3) Differential Calculus–I

9. Show that the function f(x) = tan x is differentiable in the Part–C : Broad Questions
 π
interval 0,  . 1. Show that the function f(x) = |x – 2| is continuous at x = 2
 3
but not differentiable at the point. [NUH–2006]
10. A function f(x) is defined as follows 2. Show that the function f(x) = |x + 3| is differentiable at

5
x when 0 < x < 1 every where except x = – 3.
Let f(x) = 2 – x when 1 ≤ x ≤ 2
 –1/x2 x ≠ 0 , show that f(x) is
Let f(x) =  xe when
3.
Show that f(x) is continuous at x = 1 but f (x) does not  0 when x =0
exist at that point. [NUH(NM)–2008] continuous and differentiable at x = 0. [CHU–2007]
 |x| when x ≥ 0  x 2 sin(1/ x) when x ≠ 0
11. If f(x) =  test the differentiability of 4. Show that f(x) =  is conti-
– |x| when x < 0  0 when x = 0
f(x) at x = 0. nuous at x = 0. Also show that f (x) is continuous at x = 0.
x + 1 x sin (ln x2) when x ≠ 0 [DUH–2002]
12(i). If f(x) =  3 show that the 5. Show that f(x) = |x| + |x – 1| is differentiable except x = 0
0 when x = 0 and x = 1. [NUH(NM)–2014]
function f(x) is continuous but f (x) does not exist at x = 0.
6. Show that the function f(x) = |x – 1| + |x – 2| is
x 2 – 1 when x ≠ 1 differentiable at every where except x = 1 and x = 2.
(ii). If f (1) exists, find it where f(x) =  x –21 when x = 1 7. Show that each of the following functions is
differentiable at any point.
[NUH(NM)–2002] x
f(x) = (x – 2) (x – 3) (x ≠ 2, x ≠ 3)
1 for x ≤ 1
13. 5
If f(x) = x for x > 1
8. Show that the function f(x) = |x| + |x – 1| + |x – 2| is not
Test the continuity and differentiability of f(x) at x = 1 differentiable at the points x = 0, x = 1 and x= 2.

1 + x for x ≤ 0
9. A function f(x) is defined as follows
x for 0 < x < 1 1 + x when x ≤ 0
1 4 . If f(x) = 2 – x for 1 ≤ x ≤ 2 x when 0 < x < 1
2x – x2 for x > 2 f(x) = 2 – x when 1 ≤ x ≤ 2
2x – x2 when x > 2
Show that f(x) is continuous at x = 1 and x = 2 but f (x) Show that the function f(x) is continuous at the points
does not exist at these point. x = 1 and x = 2 but f (x) does not exist at that point.
 1 [NUH(NM)–2005]
x + x
4/3 sin x for x ≠ 0
15. If f(x)
0 for x = 0

Find f (0) if exists. --------------×-----------––

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