Subject: BASIC CALCULUS

Department: Mathematics & ICT

Duration: 4 weeks

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 BASIC CALCULUS
SY 2020-2021
Course Outline
MTH/ TF

Instructors:
Mr. Marlon Boro Mr. Danilo Zapanta
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Ms. Maria Salilima Mr. Amiel Enterina

Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Mr. Edgar Garrido Mr. Alex Cipriano

Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Mr. Cyril Maghilum Ms. Mitos Ycong

Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Grading System for Specialized Subject:

Semestral Grade = Midterm Grade (50%) Final Grade (50%)

Written Works 25% Written Works 25%

Performance Task 45% Performance Task 45%
Quarterly Assessment 30% Quarterly Assessment 30%

Written Works
Written works constitute long tests, post-tests, quizzes, seatworks, assignments, or any
written activity. These will be given depending on the need and will be usually scheduled.

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Questions for quizzes are usually exercise questions or applications to practice the concepts
learned but will sometimes be “objective” type. They may be held before or after the lecture
or activity, so students are held responsible to study and be prepared. Assignments or
homework are given with the intention of encouraging self-study among students, not just
to review their lecture notes but also to pursue skills development not readily acquired
during class hours or learning time.

Performance Tasks
Performance tasks (PT) are given or announced to students at the start of the quarter. Ample
time and appropriate scaffold tasks are given so that students can prepare well.

Quarterly Assessment
There are two major exams for quarterly assessment: Midterm and Final. Delayed exam will
be given within one week after the scheduled examination. There will be no removal
examinations.

Reading Assignments
Students are expected to read all required material(s) given by the teachers. One must refer
to the topics in the course outline.

Non-regular Activity
During the cautious return to on-campus learning and depending on the availability of
facilities some class periods may be spent in the Audio-Visual Room for other instructional
modes like video-showing, PowerPoint presentations or multi-media activities.
‘
Study/Activity group and Activity Partner
During the class orientation on the first day, study/activity group and partner are created.
This is created to allow students to interact with each other through group activities or
activity with a partner.

Class Decorum
For virtual classes, students are expected to observe netiquette. Taking down notes is an
integrated function of every student as well as studying and participating in class. For
students who can’t join the virtual classes, they will have to do the tasks on their own,
following the prescribed Learning Time.

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GENERAL OBJECTIVES
• At the end of the quarter, the students are expected to evaluate the limit of a
function, differentiate algebraic and trigonometric functions in one variable, and to
formulate and solve problems involving continuity, extreme values, and related
rates.
Duration: 8 weeks (4th Quarter)
WEEK ESSENTIAL TOPICS Assessments
1
Limits (Part I) Written works
Feb. 22-26

2
Limits (Part II) Written Works
March 1-5

3 Mini Task
Continuity Written Works
March 8-12

4
Midterm Week Midterm Exam
March 15-19

5
Derivatives (Part I) Written Works
March 21-26

6 Derivatives (Part II)

Written Works
March 29-
April 2

7 Performance Task Week

Performance Task
April 5-9

8
Finals Week Final Exam
April 12-14

*Schedule may be subject to change.

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Tips on how to pass this subject:
1. Read diligently this learning packet and understand each topic.
2. Since this is a self-paced learning, always manage your time efficiently. Self-discipline is
the key to passing this subject.
3. Do not hesitate to ask for help from your teacher or any family member who is
knowledgeable of this subject.
4. Practice.

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 BASIC CALCULUS

GRADE LEVEL AND STRAND: Grade 12 (STEM)

MODULE NO. 1

Title: Limits and Continuity

LESSONS OVERVIEW
Welcome to our first module!

In this module, you will take the following topics and you are expected to demonstrate the
following as evidence of learning:

Essential Topics 1. Limits

2. Continuity
Learning Objectives At the end of the module, students will be able to
1. illustrate the limit of a function using a table of values
and the graph of the function.
2. distinguish between lim 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓(𝑎).
𝑥→𝑎
3. illustrate the limit laws.
4. apply the limit laws in evaluating the limit of algebraic
functions (polynomial, rational, and radical).
5. compute the limits of trigonometric functions using
tables of values and graphs of the functions.
6. evaluate limits involving the expressions (sint)/t ,
(1-cost)/t using tables of values and theorems.
7. illustrate continuity of a function at a number.
8. determine whether a function is continuous at a
number or not.
9. illustrate continuity of a function on an interval.
10. determine whether a function is continuous on an
interval or not.
11. illustrate different types of discontinuity
(hole/removable, jump/essential, asymptotic/infinite).

Evidences of Learning 1. Task Completion (includes activities and MT1)

2. Time Management
3. Self-regulated Learning
4. Discipline
Self-regulated Strategies 1. Goal Setting
2. Resource Management

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 References Egarguin, N.J., Fontanil, L., Lawas, V., & Domingo, A.E.
(2016): Basic CALCULUS for Senior High School, C&E
Publishing, Inc.

Balmaceda, J.M.P, Arceo, C.P.P, Lemence, R. S., Ortega Jr,

O.M., Vallejo, L.J.D. (2016):
TEACHING GUIDE FOR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Basic
Calculus, Published by the Commission on Higher
Education

Lim, Y.F., Nocon, R.C., Nocon, E.G., & Ruvivar, L.A. (2016):
Math for Engaged Learning Basic Calculus, Sibs
Publishing House, Inc.

Doming, E.J. (2016): MATH ACTIVATED: Engage Yourself

and Our World BASIC CALCULUS Senior High School, Don
Bosco Press, Inc.: Philippines

Canlapan, R.B. (2017): BASIC CALCULUS, DIWA

LEARNING SYSTEMS INC.

Dela Cruz P.S., Maderal, L. D., Valdez, Ma. T. C. (2018)

Basic Calculus for Senior High School, C & E Publishing,
Inc.

By the end of the quarter, you are expected to show the following as Performance Task:

The BASCAL Company is one of the popular packaging industry in town. You are working in

THIS WILL BE POSTED IN

that company as a paper designer where your job is to come up with different designs and sizes of
box. One client contracted your company to come up a design of box for a certain product. The
condition of your manager is to really maximize the material use per box so that no material will be

OUR MS TEAMS GENERAL

wasted as well as to identify maximum volume of the box of which it can hold. As a paper designer,
you are tasked to come up the dimensions of the box, its maximum volume and the propose price per
box of which you will submit to your manager. Your written report will be evaluated according to

CHANNEL
(organization of the written output, accuracy of the computation promptness of the submission, use
of mathematical concepts and completeness of information)

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To manage your time well, observe the Learning Time below:

Lesson Worksheet No. Target Date of

Completion
Limits (Part I) 1 February 26
Limits (Part II) 2 March 5
Continuity 3 March 12

----PRE-TEST----

Let’s find out how much you already know about this module. Encircle the letter that you think
best answers the question. Please answer all items. After taking this short test, you will see the
answer key. Take note of the items that you were not able to correctly answer and review those
items as you go through this module.

1. What is the limit of a constant 𝑘 as x approaches the number a?

A. k + 4 B. k C. 0 D. does not exist

THIS WILL BE POSTED ON

2. Evaluate lim
x →1
4 − 5x
4 + 3x
.

−2 −1 1 2

OUR MS TEAMS
A. B. C. D.
7 7 7 7

3. Evaluate lim (6  x ) .

ASSIGNMENTS TAB
1
x→ −
2
A. 3 B. – 3 C. 3  D. −3 

−1
4. Evaluate lim .
x→1 − x2 − 1
1 −1
A. B. C. +  D. − 
2 2

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 4x 2 − 4x + 1 1
 , x
5. Given the function f (x ) =  2x − 1 2 . What is the value of “ a “ so that the
 1
 a , x=
2
1
function f is continuous at x = ?
2

A. – 1 B. 0 C. 1 D. 2
x2 − 1
6. The function f (x ) = is continuous everywhere except when x is/are
x2 − x − 2
A. − 1 and 2 B. − 2 and 1 C. 2 D. -1

3x + 4
7. Which of the following is equal to the lim ?
x→ − 
2x 2 − 5
THIS WILL BE POSTED ON
A.
−3
2
B.
3
2
C.
−2
3
D.
2
3

OUR MS TEAMS
8. Which of the following is equal to the lim
x→ + 
2x − x 2
3x + 5
?

A.
ASSIGNMENTS TAB
2
3
B.
−1
5
C. −  D. + 

 2
9. Evaluate lim f (x ) if f (x ) = − x + 4 x − 3, x  1 .
x →1 −  x − 7, x 1
A. – 1 B. 0 C. 1 D. 2

− 2x + 3, x  0

10. Evaluate lim f (x ) if f (x ) =  − x .
x→0 +  + 3, x  0
 2
A. 0 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4

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CONTEXT
Change is the only thing that will not change in this world. Every day in our lives we
observe the constant change of everything, may it be physically or emotionally. From our
first heartbeat until our last breath, we are always part of this never-ending process of
change. We are living in this ever-changing world. Observing the kind of life in the past and
comparing it to the kind of life today, we can see that there are a lot of changes that have
happened, good or bad. So, as we reflect, we can say that we are just part of the process. The
moment we leave this world, change is still there, and the world will still continue.

The idea of “change” has a significant impact to the world of mathematics. The idea of
change paved the way to the birth of Calculus. This is an area of mathematics which deals
with change.

In this module, as an introduction to Calculus, we are going to observe the behavior

of a function as we evaluate its limit and determine its continuity. To simply put this one, we
are going to observe the values (range) of a function as we keep on changing the values of
the domain that approach to a particular value.

As a pre-requisite in this subject, it is important that you have a good understanding

on functions discussed in General Mathematics and Pre-Calculus. By this, you will have a
good grasp on the topics that will be discussed in this subject. You can always review your
past lessons if you find yourselves breaking your back. In the end, mathematics is not really
concerned on how brilliant you are but how you persevere along the way in the learning
process.

In this lesson, you will learn and expected to show the following as evidences of learning:
1. illustrate the limit of a function using a table of values and graph of a function;
2. distinguish between lim 𝑓(𝑥) and 𝑓(𝑎), and evaluate continuity at a point and interval;
𝑥→𝑎
and
3. evaluate the limit of trigonometric functions.

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 By the end of the lesson, you are expected to show the following scaffold to the
Performance Task:

THIS WILL BE POSTED ON

Mini-Task 1: Solving Problems Involving Limits and Continuity Through Video Presentation
Instructions: You will be given problem sets involving Limits and Continuity. You are going to
answer these problem sets, and you will create a pre-recorded video on how you solved each

OUR MS TEAMS GENERAL

problem in the set. You will also explain the process of the solution by emphasizing major
components of the topics that were discussed in class. The video presentation may include concept
sharing, solving techniques, applications, etc. You may use applications like MS PowerPoint, online

CHANNEL
whiteboard, physical whiteboard, manila paper, etc., depending on the availability of resources you
have at home.

Give your initial ideas and what you want to know about limits and continuity by
answering the K and W column of the KWL chart.

K W L
(What I Know) (What I Want to Know (What I Learned)

Let us try to see how these ideas may be affirmed or revised as we go along this module.

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 EXPERIENCE
THE LIMIT OF A FUNCTION
Introduction
Limits are the cornerstone of calculus, and calculus is called the Mathematics of
Change. The study of limits is fundamental in studying change in detail. The evaluation of a
particular limit is what supports the formulation of the derivative and the integral of a
function.
The concept of limits can be described as the best prediction of a point that cannot be
observed, and the best way of predicting it is through examining cautiously its neighboring
points. This process is called ESTIMATE. Since Mathematics has “black hole” scenarios such
as zero dividing by zero, going to infinity, and the likes yield indeterminate results, the
concept of limits is significant, because it can give us an estimate when the result cannot be
computed directly.
In other words, limits refer to the limits of single variable functions. While studying
the behavior of the function as its variable approaches a particular value (a constant), it
shows that the variable can only take values closest to the constant, but it cannot equal the
constant itself. However, the limit can describe clearly what is happening to the function near
the constant.
Definition of Limit
As mentioned, the concept of limits can be described as the best prediction of a point
that cannot be observed and the best way to predict it is through ESTIMATE. Try to consider
the example below:

Example:
𝑥 2 −1
Solve for 𝑓(𝑥) = when 𝑥 = 1
𝑥−1

Solution:
12 −1
𝑓(1) = 1−1
𝟎
𝑓(1) = 𝟎

𝟎
In Mathematics, the expression yields an indeterminate result. It means that the
𝟎
value of the expression does not exist. If the value of 𝑓(𝑥) when 𝑥 = 1 does not exist, using
ESTIMATE (when we use the neighboring points of 1) is the best option to predict the value

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of the function. To put it differently, instead of using 𝑥 = 1, let us try approaching it closer
and closer. Try to examine the tables 1 and 2 below:

Approaching the value Approaching the value

of 𝒙 = 𝟏 from the left of 𝒙 = 𝟏 from the right

𝑥2 − 1 𝑥2 − 1
𝒙 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝒙 𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥−1 𝑥−1
0.5 1.50000 1.5 2.50000
0.9 1.90000 1.1 2.10000
0.99 1.99000 1.01 2.01000
0.999 1.99900 1.001 2.00100
0.9999 1.99990 1.0001 2.00010
0.99999 1.99999 1.00001 2.00001
Table 1 Table 2

Initially, the function yields an indeterminate result when 𝑥 = 1. But, from the tables,
it clearly shows that as we use the values closest to 1, it can be predicted that the value of the
function is 2. In other words, as the value of 𝑥 approaches 1, the value of the function is going
to be 2. However, we cannot say that it should be 2 that is why mathematicians devise the
𝑥 2 −1
term “limit”. The limit of 𝑓(𝑥) = as 𝑥 approaches 1 is 2. It can be written in mathematical
𝑥−1
𝒙𝟐 −𝟏
statement as: 𝐥𝐢𝐦 = 𝟐. Thus, it is a special way of saying, “ignoring what happens when
𝒙→𝟏 𝒙−𝟏
we get there, but as we get closer and closer, the answer gets closer and closer to 2”.
Moreover, let us examine the graph of the function described in illustration 1. It clearly
shows that we cannot say what the value at 𝑥 = 1 is but we can say that as we approach 1,
the limit is 2.

Illustration 1

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 See table 3 for the formal definition of limit. To deepen more your understanding
about its definition, you may visit this link: https://www.mathsisfun.com/calculus/limits-
formal.html

Let 𝒇 be a function defined at every number in some open interval

containing 𝒂, except possibly at the number 𝒂 itself. The limit of 𝒇(𝒙)
as 𝒙 approaches 𝒂 is 𝑳, written as
𝒍𝒊𝒎 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑳
𝒙→𝒂

if the following statement is true:

Given any 𝜺 > 𝟎, however small, there exists a 𝜹 > 𝟎 such that
if 𝟎 < |𝒙 − 𝒂| < 𝜹 then |𝒇(𝒙) − 𝑳| < 𝜺

Table 3

Illustrating the Limit of a Function

As observed, the limit of a function can be illustrated in two (2) ways: (1) Table of
Values and (2) Graph of a Function. In the following examples, see how constructing table of
values and looking at the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓(𝑥) helps in explaining the limit of the functions.
EXAMPLE 1: Investigate lim (𝑥 2 + 1)
x→−1

A. Table of Values
It clearly shows that 𝑎 = −1 and 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 1.
We start by approaching −1 from the left.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
−1.5 3.25
−1.2 2.44
−1.01 2.0201
−1.0001 2.00020001

Now approach −1 from the right.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
−0.5 1.25
−0.8 1.64

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 −0.99 1.9801
−0.9999 1.99980001
The tables show that as 𝑥 approaches −1, 𝑓(𝑥) approaches 2. In symbols, lim (𝑥 2 + 1) = 2.
x→−1

B. Graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 1
Its graph is given by
illustration 2. It shows a
parabola with y-intercept (0,1).
Look at the graph in the vicinity
of 𝑥 = −1. You can somehow see
the points from the table of
values approaching the level
where 𝑦 = 2. Hence, the graph
confirms that lim (𝑥 2 + 1) = 2.
x→−1

EXAMPLE 2: Investigate lim |𝑥| Illustration 2

𝑥→0

A. Table of Values
It clearly shows that 𝑎 = 0 and 𝑓(𝑥) = |𝑥|.
We start by approaching 0 from the left.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
−0.3 0.3
−0.01 0.01
−0.00009 0.00009
−0.00000001 0.00000001

Now approach 0 from the right.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
0.3 0.3
0.01 0.01

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 0.00009 0.00009
0.00000001 0.00000001
The tables show that as 𝑥 approaches 0, 𝑓(𝑥) approaches 0. In symbols, lim|𝑥| = 0.
𝑥→0

B. Graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = |𝑥|

Its graph is given by
illustration 3. It is clear that
lim|𝑥| = 0, that is, the two sides of
𝑥→0
the graph both move downward to
the origin (0,0) as 𝑥 approaches 0.

Illustration 3
𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
EXAMPLE 3. Investigate lim
𝑥→1 𝑥−1

A. Table of Values
𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
It clearly shows that 𝑎 = 1 and 𝑓(𝑥) = . Take note that 1 is not in the domain
𝑥−1
of 𝑓, but this is not a problem. In evaluating a limit, remember that we only need to go very
close 1; we will not go to 1 itself. We now start by approaching 1 from the left.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
0.5 −3.5
0.88 −3.12
0.996 −3.004
0.9999 −3.0001

Now approach 1 from the right.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
1.5 −2.5

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 1.17 −2.83
1.003 −2.997
1.0001 −2.999

𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
The tables show that as 𝑥 approaches 1, 𝑓(𝑥) approaches −3. In symbols, lim = −3.
𝑥→1 𝑥−1

𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
B. Graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥−1

Its graph is given by illustration 4.

𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
Take note that 𝑓(𝑥) = =
𝑥−1
(𝑥−4)(𝑥−1)
= 𝑥 − 4, provided 𝑥 ≠ 1.
𝑥−1
𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
Hence, the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = is
𝑥−1
also the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 − 1, excluding
the point where 𝑥 = 1.
Look at the graph in the vicinity of
𝑥 = 1. You can somehow see the points
from the table of values approaching the
level where 𝑦 = −3. Hence, the graph
𝑥 2 −5𝑥+4
confirms that lim = −3.
𝑥→1 𝑥−1

Illustration 4

𝑥+1 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 < 4
EXAMPLE 4. Investigate lim 𝑓(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥) = { .
𝑥→4 (𝑥 − 4)2 + 3 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 ≥ 4
A. Table of Values
This looks a bit different, but the logic and procedure are the same. We still approach
the constant 4 from the left and from the right, but note that we should evaluate the
appropriate corresponding functional expression. In this case, when 𝑥 approaches 4 from
the left, the values taken should be substituted in 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 1. Indeed, this is the part of the
function which accepts values less than 4. So,

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
3.7 4.7
3.85 4.85
3.995 4.995
3.99999 4.99999

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On the other hand, when 𝑥 approaches 4 from the right, the values should be substituted in
𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 − 4)2 + 3. Thus,

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
4.3 3.09
4.1 3.01
4.001 3.000001
4.00001 3.0000000001

Observe that the values that 𝑓(𝑥) approaches are not equal, namely, 𝑓(𝑥) approaches 5 from
the left while it approaches 3 from the right. In such a case, we say that the limit of the given
function does not exist (DNE). In symbols, lim 𝑓(𝑥) DNE. There are two (2) concepts that
𝑥→4
need to be emphasized here:
(1) We do not say that lim 𝑓(𝑥) “equals DNE”, nor do we write “lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐷𝑁𝐸, because
𝑥→4 𝑥→4
“DNE” is not a value. In the example, “DNE” indicated that the function moves in different
directions as its variable approaches 𝑎 from the left and from the right. In other cases, the
1
limit fails to exist because is it undefined, such as for lim which leads to division of 1 by
𝑥→0 𝑥
zero.
(2) We have been specifying whether 𝑥 will approach a value 𝑎 from the left, through values
less than 𝑎, or from the right, through values greater than 𝑎. This direction may be specified
in the limit notation, lim 𝑓(𝑥) by adding certain symbols.
𝑥→𝑎

• If 𝑥 approaches 𝑎 from the left, or through values less than 𝑎, then we write
lim− 𝑓(𝑥).
𝑥→𝑎
• If 𝑥 approaches 𝑎 from the right, or through values greater than 𝑎, then we
write lim+ 𝑓(𝑥).
𝑥→𝑎

Furthermore, we say lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿 if and only if lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿 and lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿. In other
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
words, for a limit L to exist, the limits from the left and from the right must both exist and be
equal to L. Therefore, lim 𝑓(𝑥) 𝐷𝑁𝐸 whenever lim− 𝑓(𝑥) ≠ lim+ 𝑓(𝑥). These limits,
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
lim− 𝑓(𝑥) and lim+ 𝑓(𝑥), are also referred to as one-sided limits, since you only consider
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
values on one side of 𝑎.

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 𝑥+1 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 < 4
B. Graph of 𝑓(𝑥) if 𝑓(𝑥) = {
(𝑥 − 4)2 + 3 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 ≥ 4
Its graph is given by illustration 5.
We can see from the graph that 𝑓(𝑥) has
no limit as 𝑥 approaches 𝟒. The two
separate parts of the function move
toward different 𝑦-levels (𝑦 = 5 from the
left, 𝑦 = 3 from the right) in the vicinity
𝑎 = 4.
So, in general, if we have the
graph of a function as shown in
illustration 6, determining limits can be
done much faster and easier by
inspection. For instance, it can be seen
from the graph in illustration 6 that:
a. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 1 Illustration 5
𝑥→−2

b. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 3. Here, it does not matter

𝑥→0
that 𝑓(0) does not exist (that is, it is
undefined, or 𝑥 = 0 is not in the domain
of 𝑓). Always remember that what
matters is the behavior of the function
close to 𝑎 = 0 and not precisely at 𝑎 = 0.
In fact, even if 𝑓(0) were defined and
equal to any other constant (not equal to
3), like 100 or −5000, this would still
have no bearing on the limit. In cases like
this, lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 3 prevails regardless of
𝑥→0
the value of 𝑓(0), if any. Illustration 6

c. lim 𝑓(𝑥) 𝐷𝑁𝐸. As can be seen in illustration 6, the two parts of the graph near 𝑎 = 3 do
𝑥→3
not move towards a common 𝑦-level as 𝑥 approaches 𝑎 = 3.

18
 Practice #1
Try this! ☺
Answer what is asked on each question:

1. Investigate 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 4 through table of values.

𝑥→1

2. Consider the function 𝑓(𝑥) whose graph is shown below. Determine the following:

a) 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→−3

b) 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→1

c) 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→3

d) 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→−1

e) 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→5

Process Questions
1. How to determine the limit of a function through table of values? graphing?
2. How to determine that the limit of a function does not exist through tables of
values? graphing?
3. Why is it incorrect to say that say that the lim 𝑓(𝑥) “equals DNE”, nor do we write
𝑥→𝑎
“lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐷𝑁𝐸?
𝑥→𝑎

4. Is it correct to say that the lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎) since 𝑎 is in the domain of 𝑓? Why? Why
𝑥→𝑎
not?
Student’s responses:

Please write your answers on page 64.

19
Limit Theorems
One might ask if it is required to construct a table of values or graph the function
when asked to identify the limit, apparently not. The following theorems might help us
directly evaluate the limit of a function without doing the tedious task of constructing a
table of values or graphing the function.
In the following statements, 𝑎 is a constant, and f and g are function which may or
may not have 𝑎 in their domains.
1. The limit of a constant is itself. If k is any constant, then
lim 𝑘 = 𝑘
𝑥→𝑎

2. The limit of x as x approaches 𝑎 is equal to 𝑎.

lim 𝑥 = 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎

For the next theorems, we will assume that the limits of f and g exist as x approaches 𝑎 and
that these limits are as follows:
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿 and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑀
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

3. Constant Multiple Theorem. The limit of a multiple of a function is simply that

multiple of the limit of the function.
lim 𝑘 ∙ 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 ∙ 𝐿
𝑥→𝑎

4. Addition Theorem. The limit of a sum of functions is the sum of the limits of the
individual functions and the limit of the difference of functions is the difference of
their limits.
lim (𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥)) = lim 𝑓(𝑥) + lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿 + 𝑀
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

lim (𝑓(𝑥) − 𝑔(𝑥)) = lim 𝑓(𝑥) − lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿 − 𝑀

𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

5. Multiplication Theorem. The limit of a product of functions is equal to the product

of the limits.
lim (𝑓(𝑥) • 𝑔(𝑥)) = lim 𝑓(𝑥) • lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿 • 𝑀
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

6. Division Theorem. The limit of a quotient of functions is equal to the quotient of

the limits of the individual functions, provided the denominator limit is not equal to
0.

20
 lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑓(𝑥) 𝑥→𝑎 𝐿
lim = = , 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑣𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑀 ≠ 0
𝑥→𝑎 𝑔(𝑥) lim 𝑔(𝑥) 𝑀
𝑥→𝑎

7. Power Theorem. The limit of an integer power p of a function is just that power of
the limit of the function.
𝑝 𝑝
lim (𝑓(𝑥)) = (lim 𝑓(𝑥)) = 𝐿𝑝
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

8. Radical/Root Theorem. If n is a positive integer, the limit of the nth root of a

function is the nth root of the limit of the function, provided that the nth root of the
limit is a real number. If n is even, then L must be positive.
𝑛 𝑛
lim √𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑛√ lim 𝑓(𝑥) = √𝐿
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

Note: The addition and multiplication theorems may be applied to sums,

differences, and products of more than two functions.

Examples:
1. lim 5 = 5
𝑥→2

2. lim 𝑥 = 2
𝑥→2

3. lim(3𝑥 − 4) = lim 3𝑥 − lim 4 (Addition Theorem)

𝑥→1 𝑥→1 𝑥→1
= 3lim 𝑥 − lim 4 (Constant Multiple Theorem)
𝑥→1 𝑥→1
= 3(1) −4
= −1

4. lim (2𝑥 4 − 5𝑥 + 3) = lim 2𝑥 4 − lim 5𝑥 + lim 3 (Addition Theorem)

𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2
= 2 lim 𝑥 4 −5lim 𝑥 + lim 3 (Constant Multiple Theorem)
𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2
4
= 2 ( lim 𝑥) −5 lim 𝑥 + lim 3 (Power Theorem)
𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2
4
= 2(−2) − 5(−2) + 3
= 2(16) + 10 + 3
= 45

21
Examples:(continuation)

𝑥+3 lim 𝑥+lim 3

𝑥→2 𝑥→2
5. lim = (Addition Theorem)
𝑥→2 𝑥 2 −1 𝑥→2
lim 𝑥 2 −lim 1
𝑥→2

lim 𝑥+lim 3
𝑥→2 𝑥→2
= 2 (Power theorem)
(lim 𝑥) −lim 1
𝑥→2 𝑥→2

2+3
= (2)2 −1

5
= 3

3
6. lim √2𝑥 + 3 = 3√ lim (2𝑥 + 3)
𝑥→−5 𝑥→−5

= 3√ lim 2𝑥 + lim 3
𝑥→−5 𝑥→−5

= 3√2 lim 𝑥 + lim 3

𝑥→−5 𝑥→−5

3
= √2(−5) + 3
3
= √−7
3
= − √7

𝑥 2 −9
7. lim
𝑥→4 𝑥−4

The limit of the numerator is 7, while the limit of the denominator is 0. This
7 𝑥 2 −9
will result to which is undefined. Thus, lim does not exist.
0 𝑥→4 𝑥−4

22
 Practice #2
Try this! ☺
Evaluate the following limits.
5−𝑥 𝑥 2 −9
1. lim (−𝑥 3 + 3𝑥 − 6) 2. lim ( ) 3. lim 𝑥−6
𝑥→−3 𝑥→4 𝑥 2 −3𝑥−10 𝑥→3

√2𝑥−5 5
4. lim5 𝑥−4 5. lim 2𝑥+6
𝑥→ 𝑥→−3
2

Process Questions
1. What could be the possible cases that the limit of a function does not exist?
2. In which real-life situation can you apply the practical (may not be mathematical)
concept of limit?
3. How does limit describes the behavior of a function?
4. What concepts in algebra are needed in evaluating limits of a function?
Student’s responses:

Please write your answers on page 64.

Indeterminate Forms

There are functions whose limits cannot be determined immediately using the Limit
Theorems introduced previously. In these cases, the functions must be manipulated so that
the limit, if it exists, can be calculated. We call such limit expressions indeterminate forms.
0
In this lesson, we will only be discussing a particular indeterminate form the " 0 ". See
its definition indicated below.

𝟎
Definition of Indeterminate Form of Type " 𝟎 "
𝑓(𝑥)
If 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑓(𝑥) = 0 and 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑔(𝑥) = 0, then 𝑙𝑖𝑚 𝑔(𝑥) is called an indeterminate form
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
0
of type " 0 ".

23
 0
Note: If the limit is indeterminate of type " 0 ", one should find an expression equivalent to
the original to find the actual value. This can be done through factoring or rationalizing.
Hopefully, the expression that will emerge after factoring or rationalizing will have a
computable limit. See the following examples.
𝑥 2 +2𝑥+1
EXAMPLE 1. Evaluate lim
𝑥→−1 𝑥+1

Solution. The limit of both numerator and denominator as 𝑥 approaches −1 is 0. Thus, the
0
limit is indeterminate of type " 0 ". However, observe that (𝑥 + 1) is a factor common to the
𝑥 2 +2𝑥+1 (𝑥+1)2
numerator and the denominator, and = = 𝑥 + 1, when 𝑥 ≠ −1. Therefore,
𝑥+1 𝑥+1
𝑥 2 +2𝑥+1
lim = lim (𝑥 + 1) = 0.
𝑥→−1 𝑥+1 𝑥→−1

𝑥 2 −1
EXAMPLE 2. Evaluate lim
𝑥→1 √𝑥−1

𝑥 2 −1
Solution. Since lim 𝑥 2 − 1 = 0 and lim √𝑥 − 1 = 0, then lim is an indeterminate form of
𝑥→1 𝑥→1 𝑥→1 √𝑥−1
0 𝑥 2 −1 √𝑥+1 (𝑥−1)(𝑥+1)(√𝑥+1)
type " 0 ". To find the limit, observe that if 𝑥 ≠ 1, then ∙ = =
√𝑥−1 √𝑥+1 𝑥−1
𝑥 2 −1
(𝑥 + 1)(√𝑥 + 1). So, we have lim = lim(𝑥 + 1)(√𝑥 + 1) = 4.
𝑥→1 √𝑥−1 𝑥→1

Practice #3
Try this! ☺
Evaluate the following limits.
3
𝑡 2 −1 2𝑧−𝑧 2
1. lim 2. lim ( )
𝑡→−1 𝑡 2 +4𝑡+3 𝑧→2 𝑧 2 −4

𝑥2 −𝑥−2 √𝑥2 +3−2

3. lim 𝑥3−6𝑥2−7𝑥 4. lim
𝑥→−1 𝑥→−1 𝑥2 −1

Process Questions
1. What are the strategies that need to be mindful of in solving the actual limit of the
0
function when its initial limit is indeterminate of type " 0 ".

24
 2. How important the concepts of factoring or rationalizing when the limit of the
0
function is indeterminate of type " 0 "?

Student’s responses:

Please write your answers on page 65.

Worksheet #1: (See page 61)

Links for videos:

intro of limits with indeterminate forms and one-sided limit:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNstP0ESndU

25
 LIMITS – PART 2

One-sided Limits

Right-hand limits

In this section, we consider limits at a point a on the real line by letting x approach a.
Because x can approach a from the left-side or from the right-side, we have left-hand limit
and right-hand limit. They are called one-sided limits.

The limit exists if the resulting function values from both sides approach the same
number L. Also, it is important to consider that the limits are not defined for some functions
when evaluated as their variable approaches a particular number a.

Example 1: Let f(x) = √𝑥 . The domain

of f is [0, ∞) and so f is defined on the right-side
of 0.

Note that if x is close to and greater than 0,

then f(x) is close to 0. This means that:

lim √𝑥 = 0.
𝑥→0+

Therefore, the right-hand limit exists.

Take note that, in the above example, the left-hand limit, lim− √𝑥 , does not exist
𝑥→0
(DNE).

This leads us to consider separate evaluation of limit for cases when x approaches a
through number greater than a and through numbers less than a.

When we make x approach from a from the left, we use values that are less than a but
sufficiently close to the value of a. This is called left-hand limit of f as x approaches a.

Right-hand Limit

Definition:

Let f be a function defined at every number in some open interval (a, b). Then the
limit of f(x) as x approaches a from the right is L written as

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿.
𝑥→𝑎+

26
 When we make x approach a from the right, we use values that are greater than a
but sufficiently close to the value of a. We call this right-hand limit of f as x approaches a.

Left-hand Limit

Let f be a function defined at every number in some open interval (a, b). Then the
limit of f(x) as x approaches a from the left is L written as

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿.
𝑥→𝑎−

Example 2: Suppose we want to find the limit

of √𝑥 − 4 as x approaches 4 from the right.

The domain of f is [4, ∞) and f is defined

on the right-side of 4.

Note that if x is close to and greater than 4,

then f(x) is close to 0. This means that:

lim √𝑥 − 4 = 0.
𝑥→4+

Therefore, the right-hand limit exists.

Take note that the left-hand limit, lim− √𝑥 − 4 , does not exist (DNE).
𝑥→4

Example 3: lim− √3 − 𝑥
𝑥→3

The domain of f is (-∞, 3] and f is defined

on the left-side of 3.

Note that if x is close to and less than 3,

then f(x) is close to 0. This means that:

lim √3 − 𝑥 = 0.
𝑥→3−

Therefore, the left-hand limit exists.

Take note that the right-hand limit, lim+ √3 − x , does not exist (DNE).
𝑥→3

27
Existence of Limit Theorem:

The limit of f as x approaches a exists and is equal to the number L, if and only if
lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) and lim− 𝑓(𝑥) both exist and are equal to L. That is:
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿 .

𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

𝑥+1 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 < −1
Example 4: Consider the function defined by 𝑓(𝑥) = {−√1 − 𝑥 2 𝑖𝑓 − 1 ≤ 𝑥 < 1
5 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 ≥ 1
a. Sketch the graph of f(x).
b. Evaluate the following limits (if they exist):

i. lim 𝑓(𝑥), lim 𝑓(𝑥), 𝑎𝑛𝑑 lim 𝑓(𝑥)

𝑥→−1− 𝑥→−1+ 𝑥→−1

ii. lim 𝑓(𝑥), lim 𝑓(𝑥), 𝑎𝑛𝑑 lim 𝑓(𝑥)

𝑥→1− 𝑥→1+ 𝑥→1

Solutions:
a. Graph

b. The limits are evaluated as follows:

i. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim (𝑥 + 1) = 0, f(x) = x + 1 since x < -1

𝑥→−1− 𝑥→−1−

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim − √1 − 𝑥 2 = 0, f(x)= -√1 − 𝑥 2 since x > -1

𝑥→−1+ 𝑥→−1+

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 0

𝑥→−1 𝑥→−1− 𝑥→−1+

28
 ii. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim − √1 − 𝑥 2 = 0, f(x) = −√1 − 𝑥 2 since x < 1
𝑥→1− 𝑥→1−

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 5 = 5, f(x)= 5 since x > 1

𝑥→1+ 𝑥→1+

Since lim− 𝑓(𝑥) ≠ lim 𝑓(𝑥), lim𝑓(𝑥) 𝑑𝑜𝑒𝑠 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑒𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡.

𝑥→1 𝑥→1+ 𝑥→1

⎸𝑥⎹ 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 ≠ 0
Example 5: Let g be defined by 𝑔(𝑥) = {
2 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 = 0
a) Draw a sketch of the graph of g.
b) Find lim 𝑔(𝑥) if it exists.
𝑥→0

Solutions:
a) Graph b) lim− 𝑔(𝑥) = lim− ⎸𝑥⎹ = 0
𝑥→0 𝑥→0

and

c) lim+ 𝑔(𝑥) = lim+ ⎸𝑥⎹ = 0

𝑥→0 𝑥→0

In the above example, lim− 𝑔(𝑥) = lim+ 𝑔(𝑥). Because the left-hand limit and the right-
𝑥→0 𝑥→0
hand limits are equal, we say that the two-sided limits, lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 0, exists.
𝑥→0

Note that g(0) = 2, which has NO effect on lim 𝑔(𝑥).

𝑥→0

29
Practice #4 : One-sided limit

Use the graph to determine the following limits.

a) lim − 𝑓(𝑥) g) lim− 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→−3 𝑥→3

b) lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→−3+
h) lim+ 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→3
c) lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→−3

d) lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) i) lim 𝑓(𝑥)

𝑥→1 𝑥→3

e) lim− 𝑓(𝑥) j) f(-3)

𝑥→1

k) f(1)
f) lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→1
l) f(3)

30
Infinite Limits

In this section, we will consider the asymptotes which are lines where the graph
begins to hug closer and closer. This time we will consider vertical asymptotes.

We previously evaluated the limit of a rational function that leads to

𝑝(𝑥) 0
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 𝑞(𝑥) = 0. We simplified rational functions by factoring and cancelling
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
common factors in order to evaluate the limit.

𝑝(𝑥)
Now, consider the case where lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 𝑞(𝑥) gives a non-zero constant for p(a)
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
while q(0) = 0.
1
Example 1: Consider the graph of function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥.
1 1
lim lim
𝑥→0− 𝑥 𝑥→0+ 𝑥

x 1 x 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥 𝑥
-1 -1 1 1
-0.9 -1.11 0.9 1.11
-0.5 -2 0.5 2
-0.1 -10 0.1 10
-0.01 -100 0.01 100
-0.001 -1,000 0.001 1,000
-0.0001 -10,000 0.0001 10,000

𝟏
Based on the graph, we observed that as x approaches 0 from the left or 𝐥𝐢𝐦− 𝒙 , the
𝒙→𝟎
graph decreases infinitely or f is said to decrease without bound to the negative infinity
(symbol: - ∞).

𝟏
Similarly, as x approaches from the right or 𝐥𝐢𝐦+ 𝒙 , the graph increases infinitely or f
𝒙→𝟎
is said to increase without bound to the positive infinity (symbol: +∞ or simply ∞).

Our observation is also verified by the table of values, as x approaches 0 from the
left, f gets negatively large, and as x approaches 0 from the right, f gets positively large.

𝟏 𝟏
Therefore, we write or 𝐥𝐢𝐦− 𝒙 = −∞ and 𝐥𝐢𝐦+ 𝒙 = +∞.
𝒙→𝟎 𝒙→𝟎

𝟏 𝟏 𝟏
Since 𝐥𝐢𝐦− 𝒙 ≠ 𝐥𝐢𝐦+ 𝒙 , 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒙 does not exist. [By the Existence of Limit Theorem]
𝒙→𝟎 𝒙→𝟎 𝒙→𝟎

31
 1
Example 2: We investigate the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2

1 1
lim lim
𝑥→0− 𝑥 2 𝑥→0+ 𝑥 2

x 1 x 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥2 𝑥2
-1 1 1 1
-0.9 1.23 0.9 1.23
-0.5 4 0.5 4
-0.1 100 0.1 100
-0.01 10,000 0.01 10,000
-0.001 1,000,000 0.001 1,000,000
-0.0001 100,000,000 0.0001 100,000,000

The graph and the tables show that as x approaches 0 from both left and the right
sides, the function f increases infinitely or increases without bound to the positive infinity.
1 1
Therefore, we write lim− 𝑥 2 = +∞ and lim+ 𝑥 2 = + ∞.
𝑥→0 𝑥→0

𝟏 𝟏
Since 𝐥𝐢𝐦− 𝒙 = 𝐥𝐢𝐦+ 𝒙 = +∞, the limit does not exist. [By the Existence of Limit
𝒙→𝟎 𝒙→𝟎
Theorem]

𝟏 1
Both f(x) =𝒙 and 𝑥 2 resulted to an infinite decrease or increase in values as x
approaches 0. These kinds of limits are called infinite limits. These allow us to obtain the
vertical asymptote of the graph. The function values either increase or decrease infinitely
as the graph gets closer to the vertical asymptote.

This will conclude that:

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞, lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, 𝑜𝑟 lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞, then x =
𝑥→𝑎− 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
a is a vertical asymptote of y = f(x).

𝑝(𝑥)
Thus, a vertical asymptote x = a of a function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑞(𝑥) is when q(a) = 0 and
p(a)≠0.

The tabular and graphical approaches of evaluating infinite limits can show if the
function values are increasing or decreasing infinitely. We only assign values that are very
close to the limiting number a to show how the function behaves and we only get either -∞
or +∞. However, there are other ways of determining infinite limits. We just only remember
that infinite limits occur when the denominator of the function is 0 at a and the numerator
is not.

32
 The following theorem and its properties will help us easily evaluate infinite limits.

Theorem: Infinite Limits

Let r be a positive integer.

1. If r is even, then
1 1
a. lim− 𝑥 𝑟 = + ∞ b. lim+ 𝑟 𝑥 = + ∞
𝑥→ 0 𝑥→0 √

2. If r is odd, then
1 1
a. lim− 𝑥 𝑟 = - ∞ c. lim+ 𝑥 𝑟 = + ∞
𝑥→0 𝑥→0

1 1
b. lim− 𝑟 𝑥 = - ∞ d. lim+ 𝑟 𝑥 = + ∞
𝑥→0 √ 𝑥→0 √

Evaluate the following limits:

1
Example 3: lim
𝑥→ − 4− (𝑥+4)3

1
Example 4: lim+ 𝑥 2−9
𝑥→3

𝑥−2
Example 5: lim− 𝑥 2−4𝑥+4
𝑥→2

Solutions:
1
3. lim −
𝑥→ −4 (𝑥+4)3

Because the denominator becomes 0 when x = -4, the limit is infinite. We just need to
determine the sign of the infinity. When we approach -4 from the left, say -4.1, the function
value becomes negative. Thus:
1
lim = −∞
𝑥→−4− (𝑥+4)3

33
 1
4: lim+ 𝑥 2 −9
𝑥→3

It is very important to rewrite in factored form and simplify as:

1 1
= (𝑥−3)(𝑥+3) where the denominator is equal to 0 at x = 3. When we take a
𝑥 2 −9
number from the right side of 3, say 3.01, the function value is positive. Hence,
1 1
lim = lim+ (𝑥−3)(𝑥+3) = +∞
𝑥→3+ 𝑥 2 −9 𝑥→3

𝑥−2
5: lim− 𝑥 2 −4𝑥+4
𝑥→2

0
We can observe that when x= 2, the function value is 0 which is indeterminate and
unacceptable. This can be remedied by factoring and cancel the same factors such as:
𝑥−2 𝑥−2 1
lim = lim− (𝑥−2)(𝑥−2) = lim− 𝑥−2
𝑥→2− 𝑥 2 −4𝑥+4 𝑥→2 𝑥→2

Taking a number from the left side of 2, say 1.99 the sign of the function value
becomes negative. Thus
𝑥−2 𝑥−2 1
lim− 𝑥 2 −4𝑥+4 = lim− (𝑥−2)(𝑥−2) = lim− 𝑥−2 = −∞
𝑥→2 𝑥→2 𝑥→2

The following properties of limits will help us evaluate infinite limits involving the
operations on addition, multiplication, and division.

Properties of Infinite Limits

Let a and L be real numbers:

1. Sum

a. 𝑖𝑓 lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿, then lim [𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥)] = +∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

b. 𝑖𝑓 lim 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞, and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿, then lim [𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑔(𝑥)] = −∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

c. 𝑖𝑓 lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim ℎ(𝑥) = −∞, then lim [𝑓(𝑥) − ℎ(𝑥)] = +∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

d. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim ℎ(𝑥) = −∞, then lim [ℎ(𝑥) − 𝑓(𝑥)] = −∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

Note that +∞ - (+∞) and -∞ - (-∞) are said to be in indeterminate forms.

34
 2. Product
a. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿 > 0, then lim 𝑓(𝑥) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥) = +∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

b. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿 < 0, then lim 𝑓(𝑥) ∙ 𝑔(𝑥) = −∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

c. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim ℎ(𝑥) = +∞, then lim 𝑓(𝑥) ∙ ℎ(𝑥) = +∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

d. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim ℎ(𝑥) = −∞, then lim 𝑓(𝑥) ∙ ℎ(𝑥) = −∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

e. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞, and lim ℎ(𝑥) = −∞, then lim 𝑓(𝑥) ∙ ℎ(𝑥) = +∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

Note that (0)(+∞) and (0)(-∞) are said to be in indeterminate forms.

3. Quotient
𝑔(𝑥)
a. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿, then lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 0.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

𝑔(𝑥)
b. lim ℎ(𝑥) = −∞, and lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝐿, then lim ℎ(𝑥) = 0.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

+∞ +∞ −∞ −∞
Note that +∞ , −∞ , +∞ , and are said to be in indeterminate forms.
−∞

Evaluate the following using the properties of infinite limits:

4
Example 6: lim− (𝑥 − 𝑥−1)
𝑥→1

3 1
Example 7: lim+ (𝑥 2 ) (𝑥 − 2)
𝑥→0

𝑥−3
Example 8: lim − (𝑥 2 −16)
𝑥→−4

Solutions:
4 1
6. lim− (𝑥 − 𝑥−1) = lim−𝑥 − 4 lim− = 1 − 4(−∞) = +∞
𝑥→1 𝑥→1 𝑥→1 𝑥−1

3 1 3 1 1
7. lim+ (𝑥 2 ) (𝑥 − 2) = lim+ (𝑥 2 ) lim+ (𝑥 − 2) = +∞ (− 2) = −∞
𝑥→0 𝑥→0 𝑥→0

𝑥−3 1
8. lim − (𝑥 2 −16) = lim −(𝑥 − 3) ∙ lim − (𝑥 2 −16) = (−7)(+∞) = −∞
𝑥→−4 𝑥→−4 𝑥→−4

Practice #5: Infinite Limits

𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 3
Evaluate: lim+
𝑥→2 𝑥 2 −3𝑥+2

35
Limits at Infinity
1
Consider the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥

We will evaluate the function using numbers that become extremely small and
1
extremely large. The following tables show the computed values of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥.

1 1
lim lim
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 𝑥→+∞ 𝑥

x→-∞ 1 x→+∞ 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) =
𝑥 𝑥
-1 -1 1 1
-10 -0.1 10 0.1
-100 -0.01 100 0.01
-1,000 -0.001 1,000 0.001
-10,000 -0.0001 10,000 0.0001
-100,000 -0.00001 100,000 0.00001
-1,000,000 -0.000001 1,000,000 0.0000001

The table of values show that when x gets extremely small, the function values
become closer and closer to 0. Similarly, when x gets extremely large, the function values
become closer and closer to 0. We can therefore conclude that the limit of
1 1
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 as x → −∞ is 0 and the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 as x → +∞ is 0 is also 0.

1
The graph also shows that as x approaches negative infinity, the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥
gets closer and closer to the x-axis where y = 0. In like manner, as x approaches positive
1
infinity, the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 still gets closer and closer to the x-axis. Hence,

1 1
lim = 0 and lim =0
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 𝑥→+∞ 𝑥

This type of limit is called limits at infinity. This leads us to the following theorem:

Theorem on Limits at Infinity

Let k be any real number and r be any positive rational number, then

𝑘
1. lim = 0.
𝑥→+∞ 𝑥 𝑟

𝑘
2. lim = 0, provided 𝑥 𝑟 is defined when using x < 0.
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 𝑟

36
Evaluate the indicated limits:

4𝑥 2 +2𝑥−1
Example 1: lim
𝑥→+∞ 2𝑥 2 +3𝑥+1

𝑥 2 −𝑥−2
Example 2: lim
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 3 +𝑥 2 +𝑥−4

𝑥−2
Example 3: lim
𝑥→∞ √2𝑥 2 −𝑥+1

Solutions:

To apply the theorem, we must rewrite the terms of the polynomial in the numerator
𝑘
and denominator in the form 𝑥 𝑟 . To do this, we will divide each term, both in the numerator
and denominator by x2. (Trick: Divide all terms by the highest degree of x in the denominator).

4𝑥 2 +2𝑥−1
1: lim
𝑥→+∞ 2𝑥 2 +3𝑥+1

4𝑥2 2𝑥 1
4𝑥 2 +2𝑥−1 + −
𝑥2 𝑥2 𝑥2
Lim = lim 2
𝑥→+∞ 2𝑥 2 +3𝑥+1 𝑥→+∞ 2𝑥2 +3𝑥2 + 12
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥

2 1
4+ − 2
𝑥 𝑥
= lim 3 1
𝑥→+∞ 2+𝑥+𝑥2

Applying the Limits at Infinity,

2 1 2 1
4+ − 2 lim 4 + lim − lim 2
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 𝑥→∞ 𝑥
Lim 3 1 = 3 1
𝑥→+∞ 2+𝑥+𝑥2 lim 2 + lim − lim 2
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 𝑥→∞ 𝑥

4+0−0
= 2+0+0

=2

4𝑥 2 +2𝑥−1
Therefore, lim =2
𝑥→+∞ 2𝑥 2 +3𝑥+1

Note that we will get the same result of 2 when we change x→+∞ to x→-∞. When x
increases or decreases without bound, the function values get closer and closer to 2. This is
also evident in the graph shown above.

The graph is asymptotic to the line y = 2 which is the horizontal asymptote. This
clearly shows that we can associate limits at infinity with horizontal asymptotes. So, the

37
line y = L is a horizontal asymptote of the graph y=f(x) whenever lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿 or
𝑥→−∞
lim f(x) = 𝐿.
x→+∞
4𝑥 2 +2𝑥−1
We also say that y = 2 is the horizontal asymptote of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 2 +3𝑥+1.

𝑥 2 −𝑥−2
2. lim
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 3 +𝑥 2 +𝑥−4
𝑥2 𝑥 2
𝑥 2 −𝑥−2 − −
𝑥3 𝑥3 𝑥3
lim = lim 𝑥3 𝑥2
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 3 +𝑥 2 +𝑥−4 𝑥→+∞ 𝑥
+ 3 + 3− 3
4
𝑥3 𝑥 𝑥 𝑥

1 1 2
− −
𝑥 𝑥2 𝑥3
= lim 1 1 4
𝑥→+∞ 1+ 𝑥 + 𝑥2 −𝑥3

Applying the theorem on limits at infinity;

0
=1 =0
𝑥 2 −𝑥−2
Therefore, lim = 0. We also say that y = 0 is a horizontal asymptote
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 3 +𝑥 2 +𝑥−4

𝑥 2 −𝑥−2
of 𝑓(𝑥) = .
𝑥 3 +𝑥 2 +𝑥−4

𝑋 2
−
𝑥−2 √𝑋 2 √𝑋2
3. lim = lim [Divide all terms by √𝑥 2
𝑥→∞ √2𝑥 2 −𝑥+1 𝑥→∞ √2𝑋2 −𝑋+1
√𝑋2

𝑋 2
−
= lim 𝑥 𝑥
𝑥→∞ √2𝑥2 𝑥 1
− 2+ 2
𝑥2 𝑥 𝑥

1−0 1
= =
√2−0+0 √2

𝑥−2 1
Therefore, lim =
𝑥→∞ √2𝑥 2 −𝑥+1 √2

Practice #6: Evaluate Limits at Infinity

5𝑥 3 −2𝑥 2 −1
Evaluate: lim
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 3 −𝑥 + 1

38
Infinite Limits at Infinity
This lesson deals with functions that increase or decrease without bound when x
approaches the positive or negative infinity.

The functions below illustrate this behavior.

Example 1: Consider the function f(x) = x2 + 1, a parabola opens upward.

Determine:

a. lim (𝑥 2 + 1) b. lim (𝑥 2 + 1)
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥→+∞

From the graph, we noticed that

as the values of x get extremely small (x→ -∞),
the values of y increase without bound to the
positive infinity.

The same observation shows that as the

values of x get extremely large (x→ +∞), the
values of y also increase without bound to
the positive infinity.

Now, we can say that for the function

f(x) = x2 + 1, as x → -∞, y → +∞, and as
x → +∞, y → +∞. Thus, we can say that:

a. lim (𝑥 2 + 1) = +∞ and
𝑥→−∞

b. lim (𝑥 2 + 1) = +∞
𝑥→+∞

Example 2: Given the function f(x) = x3.

Determine:
a. lim 𝑥 3 b. lim 𝑥 3
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥→+∞

From the graph, we observed that as

x increases without bound, the values of f also
increase without bound. Similarly, as x decreases
without bound, the values of f also decrease
without bound. Thus, we say that:
a. lim 𝑥 3 = −∞ and
𝑥→ −∞
b. lim 𝑥 3 = +∞.
𝑥→ +∞
All the above examples illustrate what we call infinite limits at infinity. To
summarize, we have the following properties:

39
Properties of Infinite Limits at Infinity:

If the values of f(x) become extremely large when x approaches positive or negative
infinity, then we write

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞ or lim 𝑓(𝑥) = +∞, respectively.

𝑥→ +∞ 𝑥→ −∞

If the values of f(x) become extremely small when x approaches positive or negative
infinity, then we write

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞ or lim 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞, respectively.

𝑥→ +∞ 𝑥→ −∞

𝑥 2 − 3𝑥
Example 3: lim
𝑥→ −∞ 1 + 2𝑥

Solution: Divide both the numerator and denominator by x (again highest degree of x in
the denominator), we get:
𝑥2 3𝑥
𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 − 𝑥−3 lim 𝑥−3 −∞−3 −∞
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥→−∞
lim = lim 1 2𝑥 = lim 1 = 1 = = = −∞.
𝑥→ −∞ 1 + 2𝑥 𝑥→ −∞ 𝑥 + 𝑥 𝑥→ −∞ 𝑥+ 2 lim + 2 0+2 2
𝑥→−∞𝑥

The result shows the limit is infinity. This can be verified by assigning a very small
number to x, and we get the negative infinity limit.

Practice #7: Infinite Limits at Infinity

lim (4𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 1)
𝑥→ +∞

Process Questions

1. When we conclude that the limit of a certain function is -∞ or +∞, does the limit really
exist? Explain.

2. Is it meaningful or possible to operate infinities such as:

0 ∞
, , or ∞ - ∞?
0 ∞

Explain your answer for each of the three situations above.

Student’s responses:

Please write your answers on page 65.

40
Limits of Trigonometric Functions

Trigonometric functions are as important as algebraic functions. Just like in the

previous sections, we can also use graphical and tabular methods in finding the limits of
trigonometric functions. However, we focus our attention on using easier but more accurate
ways of finding those limits; that is, by using established results or theorems. We also take
advantage of the fact that the basic forms of trigonometric functions are continuous at every
point of their respective domains.

Let us first consider evaluating the limit of a trigonometric function by using table of
values.

Example 1. Evaluate lim sin 𝑥.

𝑥→0

Solution. We will construct the table of values for 𝑓(𝑥) = sin 𝑥. We first approach 0 from
the left or through the values less than but close to 0.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
-1 -0.8414709848
-0.5 -0.4794255386
-0.1 -0.09983341664
-0.01 -0.00999983333
-0.001 -0.00099999983
-0.0001 -0.00009999999
-0.00001 -0.00000999999

Now we consider approaching 0 from its right or through values greater than but close to 0.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
1 0.8414709848
0.5 0.4794255386
0.1 0.09983341664
0.01 0.00999983333
0.001 0.00099999983
0.0001 0.00009999999
0.00001 0.00000999999

As the values of x get closer and closer to 0, the values of f(x) get closer and closer to 0.
In symbols,
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙 = 𝟎.
𝒙→𝟎

41
We can also find lim sin 𝑥 by using the graph of the sine function. Consider the graph of
𝑥→0
𝑓(𝑥) = sin 𝑥.

The graph validates our observation in Example 1 that lim sin 𝑥 = 0. Also, using the graph,
𝑥→0
we have the following:

(𝑎) lim𝜋 sin 𝑥 = 1 (𝑐) lim𝜋 sin 𝑥 = −1

𝑥→ 𝑥→−
2 2

(𝑏) lim sin 𝑥 = 0 (𝑑) lim sin 𝑥 = 0

𝑥→𝜋 𝑥→− 𝜋

Now recall the six basic trigonometric functions and their respective domains.

DEFINITION
The following are the six basic trigonometric functions and their domains:
(𝑖) 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒: 𝑓(𝑥) = sin 𝑥 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑥 ∈ ℝ
(𝑖𝑖) 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒: 𝑓(𝑥) = cos 𝑥 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑥 ∈ ℝ
(𝑖𝑖𝑖) 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝑓(𝑥) = csc 𝑥 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑥 ∈ ℝ − {𝑘𝜋|𝑘 ∈ ℤ}
(2𝑘+1)𝜋
(𝑖𝑣) 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝑓(𝑥) = sec 𝑥 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑥 ∈ ℝ − { 2 |𝑘 ∈ ℤ}
(2𝑘+1)𝜋
(𝑣) 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝑓(𝑥) = tan 𝑥 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑥 ∈ ℝ − { 2 |𝑘 ∈ ℤ}
(𝑣𝑖) 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡 ∶ 𝑓(𝑥) = cot 𝑥 , 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑥 ∈ ℝ − {𝑘𝜋|𝑘 ∈ ℤ}

Note: ℝ 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑒𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑

ℤ 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑒𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑔𝑒𝑟𝑠

Observe that the six trigonometric functions are continuous everywhere in their
respective domains. This result is formally stated in the following theorem:

THEOREM
Sine, cosine, secant, cosecant, tangent, and cotangent functions are continuous at
every point in their respective domains.

42
 The previous theorem has a significant impact when it comes to finding limits of
trigonometric functions. This implication is stated in the following theorem:

THEOREM
Let a be contained in the domain of the function whose limit is being evaluated. Then:
(𝑖) lim sin 𝑥 = sin 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎
(𝑖𝑖) lim cos 𝑥 = cos 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎
(𝑖𝑖𝑖) lim sec 𝑥 = sec 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎
(𝑖𝑣) lim csc 𝑥 = csc 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎
(𝑣) lim tan 𝑥 = tan 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎
(𝑣𝑖) lim cot 𝑥 = cot 𝑎
𝑥→𝑎

Example 2. Evaluate the limit, if it exists.

(𝑎) lim sin 𝑥

𝑥→0
(𝑏) lim𝜋 cos 𝑥
𝑥→−
4
(𝑐) lim tan 𝑥
𝑥→ 𝜋
(𝑑) lim𝜋 cot 𝑥
𝑥→−
3
(𝑒) lim sec 𝑥
𝑥→2𝜋
(𝑓) lim 𝜋 csc 𝑥
𝑥→ −
6
(𝑔) lim5𝜋 tan 𝑥
𝑥→
2
2 sin 𝑥
(ℎ) lim𝜋
𝑥→ √3 sec 𝑥−𝑐𝑜𝑡 2 𝑥
6

Solution.
(a) lim sin 𝑥 = sin 0 = 0
𝑥→0
𝜋 √2
(𝑏) lim𝜋 cos 𝑥 = cos (− ) =
𝑥→− 4 2
4
sin 𝜋 0
(𝑐) lim tan 𝑥 = tan 𝜋 = = −1 = 0
𝑥→ 𝜋 cos 𝜋
𝜋 1
𝜋 cos(− ) 1 √3
3 2
(𝑑) lim𝜋 cot 𝑥 = cot (− ) = 𝜋 = √3
=− =−
𝑥→− 3 sin(− ) − √3 3
3 3 2
1 1
(𝑒) lim sec 𝑥 = sec 2𝜋 = =1=1
𝑥→2𝜋 cos 2𝜋
𝜋 1 1
(𝑓) lim 𝜋 csc 𝑥 = csc (− 6 ) = 𝜋 = 1 = −2
𝑥→ − sin(− ) −
6 6 2

43
 5𝜋
5𝜋 sin( ) 1
2
(𝑔) lim5𝜋 tan 𝑥 = tan = 5𝜋 = 0 , 𝐷𝑜𝑒𝑠 𝑁𝑜𝑡 𝐸𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑟 𝑁𝑜 𝐿𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡
𝑥→ 2 cos( )
2 2
𝜋 1
2 sin 𝑥 (2)(sin ) (2)( ) 1
6 2
(ℎ) lim𝜋 = 𝜋 2
= 2 2 = 2−3 = −1
𝑥→ √3 sec 𝑥−𝑐𝑜𝑡 2 𝑥 𝜋
(√3)(sec )−(cot ) (√3)( )−(√3)
6 6 6 √3

Evaluating limits of trigonometric functions is simply finding the trigonometric

function values at 𝑥 = 𝑎. But there are two important limits involving trigonometric
functions that cannot be evaluated using the same technique. These are:

𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒙 𝟏 − 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝒙
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝐥𝐢𝐦
𝒙→𝟎 𝒙 𝒙→𝟎 𝒙

sin 𝑥
Example 3. Evaluate lim .
𝑥→0 𝑥

sin 𝑥
Solution. We will construct the table of values for 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 . We first approach the
number 0 from the left or through values less than but close to 0.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
-1 0.84147099848
-0.5 0.9588510772
-0.1 0.9983341665
-0.01 0.9999833334
-0.001 0.9999998333
-0.0001 0.99999999983

Now we consider approaching 0 from the right or through values greater than but close to 0.

𝑥 𝑓(𝑥)
1 0.84147099848
0.5 0.9588510772
0.1 0.9983341665
0.01 0.9999833334
0.001 0.9999998333
0.0001 0.99999999983

sin 𝑥 sin 𝑥 sin 𝑥

Since lim− and lim+ are both equal to 1, we conclude that lim = 1.
𝑥→0 𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥

44
 1−cos 𝑥
Example 4. Evaluate lim .
𝑥→0 𝑥

1−cos 𝑥
Solution. We will construct the table of values for 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥 . We first approach the
number 1 from the left or through the values less than but close to 0.

𝑥 𝑔(𝑥)
-1 -0.4596976941
-0.5 -0.2448348762
-0.1 -0.04995834722
-0.01 -0.0049999583
-0.001 -0.0004999999
-0.0001 -0.00005

Now we consider approaching 0 from the right or through values greater than but close to 0.

𝑥 𝑔(𝑥)
1 0.4596976941
0.5 0.2448348762
0.1 0.04995834722
0.01 0.0049999583
0.001 0.0004999999
0.0001 0.00005

1−cos 𝑥 1−cos 𝑥 1−cos 𝑥

Since lim− = 0 and lim+ = 0, we conclude that lim = 0.
𝑥→ 0 𝑥 𝑥→ 0 𝑥 𝑥→ 0 𝑥

Which will lead us to the following theorem:

THEOREM
sin 𝑥
(𝑖) lim =1
𝑥→0 𝑥

1 − cos 𝑥
(𝑖𝑖) lim =0
𝑥→0 𝑥

45
Example 5. Evaluate the following limits, if it exists.

3 sin 2𝑥
(𝑎) lim
𝑥→0 𝑥
sin 3𝑥
(𝑏) lim
𝑥→0sin 5𝑥
cos 𝑥−1
(𝑐) lim
𝑥→0 2 sin 𝑥
(𝑑) lim cot 𝑥 sin 2𝑥
𝑥→0
2𝑡𝑎𝑛2 𝑥
(𝑒) lim
𝑥→0 𝑥2

Solution.
3 sin 2𝑥
(𝑎) lim
𝑥→0 𝑥
Let 𝑦 = 2𝑥. 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑦 → 0 𝑖𝑓 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑖𝑓 𝑥 → 0. 𝑆𝑜 𝑤𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒:

3 sin 2𝑥 3 sin 𝑦 6 sin 𝑦 sin 𝑦

lim = lim 𝑦 = lim = (6) (lim ) = (6)(1) = 6
𝑥→0 𝑥 𝑦→0 𝑦→0 𝑦 𝑦→0 𝑦
2
sin 3𝑥
sin 3𝑥 lim 3( )
𝑥→0 3𝑥
(𝑏) lim = sin 5𝑥 . 𝐴𝑠 𝑥 𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑠 𝑧𝑒𝑟𝑜, 𝑠𝑜 𝑑𝑜 3𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 5𝑥. 𝐻𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒
𝑥→0sin 5𝑥 lim 5( )
𝑥→0 5𝑥

sin 3𝑥
sin 3𝑥 3 lim ( ) (3)(1) 3
𝑥→0 3𝑥
lim sin 5𝑥 = sin 5𝑥 = (5)(1) = 5
𝑥→0 5 lim ( )
𝑥→0 5𝑥

1−cos 𝑥 1−cos 𝑥
cos 𝑥−1 −(1−cos 𝑥) lim 0 0
𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥
(𝑐) lim = lim = − lim 2 sin 𝑥 =− 2 sin 𝑥 =− sin 𝑥 = − 2(1) = 0
𝑥→0 2 sin 𝑥 𝑥→0 2 sin 𝑥 𝑥→0 lim 2 lim
𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥

sin 2𝑥
sin 2𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 2𝑥 2𝑥
(𝑑) lim cot 𝑥 sin 2𝑥 = lim = lim sin 𝑥 = lim 1 = lim sin 𝑥 1
𝑥→0 𝑥→0 tan 𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥→0 (sin 𝑥)(cos 𝑥) 𝑥→0 ( )( )
cos 𝑥 2𝑥 cos 𝑥

sin 2𝑥
lim 1 1 1
𝑥→0 2𝑥
= sin 𝑥 1 = 1 sin 𝑥 1 = 1 1 = 1 =2
(lim )(lim ) ( lim )( ) ( )(1)( ) 2
𝑥→0 2𝑥 𝑥→0cos 𝑥 2 𝑥→0 𝑥 cos 0 2 1

2𝑡𝑎𝑛2 𝑥 2(sin 𝑥)2 sin 𝑥 2 2 sin 𝑥 2 2

(𝑒) lim = lim 𝑥 2 (cos 𝑥)2 = lim ( ) ((cos 𝑥)2) = (lim ) (lim (cos 𝑥)2)
𝑥→0 𝑥2 𝑥→0 𝑥→0 𝑥 𝑥→0 𝑥 𝑥→0
2 2
= (1)2 ((cos ) = (1) (12) = (1)(2) = 2
0)2

46
 Practice # 8
Try this! ☺

Evaluate the limit, if it exists.

sin 𝑥
1. lim𝜋 sin 𝑥 6. lim
𝑥→ 𝑥→0 3𝑥
6
2 cos 𝑥−2
2. lim𝜋 cot 𝑥 7. lim
𝑥→ 𝑥→0 𝑥
4
cos 𝑥
3. lim𝜋 𝑠𝑒𝑐 2 𝑥 8. lim
𝑥→ 𝑥→0 𝑥
3
4. lim𝜋(sin 𝑥 + cos 𝑥) 9. lim 2𝑥 cot 2𝑥
𝑥→ 𝑥→0
3
tan 𝑥
5. lim𝜋(sec 𝑥 + tan 𝑥) 10. lim
𝑥→ 𝑥→0 𝑥
2

Process Questions
1. Is there a limit involving trigonometric functions that will not exist? Cite an
example.
2. Is there any case where the limit of trigonometric functions can be
determined through observation of some values of the function or its graph?
Cite an example.

Student’s responses:

Please write your answers on page 66.

Worksheet #2: (See page 62)

https://www.ck12.org/book/ck-12-calculus-concepts/section/2.7/

47
 Continuity

Continuity at a Point

What comes to your mind when you hear or read the word “continuous”? Perhaps you
would think that it is something that does not stop, or in the context of machines, it is an
activity or operation that is not interrupted. In the language of mathematics, it means the
same thing. We can say that a given function is continuous at a point, or an interval, if we can
trace the graph of that function which passes through a given point without lifting our pencil
from the paper.

Examine the following:

𝑓(𝑎) is not defined. lim 𝑓(𝑥) exists and 𝑓(𝑎) is defined but
𝑥→𝑎
The graph has a 𝑓(𝑎) is defined but lim 𝑓(𝑥) does not
𝑥→𝑎
hole at 𝑥 = 𝑎. The lim 𝑓(𝑥) ≠ 𝑓(𝑎). The exist. The graph is
graph is 𝑥→𝑎
discontinuous.
discontinuous. graph has a hole at
𝑥 = 𝑎. The graph is
discontinuous.

lim 𝑓(𝑥) does not lim 𝑓(𝑥) exists and

𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎
exist. The graph is 𝑓(𝑎) is defined;
discontinuous. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎). The
𝑥→𝑎
graph is continuous.

(Pictures are taken from https://www.mathwarehouse.com/calculus/continuity/continuity-definitions.php)

The illustrated graphs provide the definition of a continuous function.

48
 Definition
A function 𝑓 is said to be continuous at 𝑥 = 𝑎 when all the following conditions are met:
(i) 𝑓(𝑎) is defined (ii) lim 𝑓(𝑥) exists (iii) lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎)
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

Otherwise, function 𝑓 is discontinuous at 𝑥 = 𝑎.

Types of Discontinuity
a) Essential (Nonremovable)
This type of discontinuity occurs when function 𝑓 is discontinuous at 𝑎 and condition (ii)
is not satisfied.

b) Removable
This type of discontinuity occurs when function 𝑓 satisfies condition (ii) but fails to satisfy
either (i) or (iii). Given this type of discontinuity, we can remove the discontinuity by
redefining function 𝑓.

Examples

Example 1
Determine whether 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 1 is continuous at 𝑎 = 1. If it is discontinuous,
determine the type of discontinuity.

Solution:
First, we need to evaluate 𝑓 at 𝑎 = 1. That is,

𝑓(1) = 12 + 1 + 1

𝒇(𝟏) = 𝟑
Therefore, 𝑓(𝑎) exists.

Now, we will determine if lim 𝑓(𝑥) exists.

𝑥→𝑎

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 12 + 1 + 1
𝑥→1

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝟑
𝒙→𝟏

After doing the previous two procedures, we will compare whether lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎). Since
𝑥→𝑎
both yield the same values, which is 3, we can say that 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝒙𝟐 + 𝒙 + 𝟏 is continuous at
𝒂 = 𝟏.

49
Example 2
2−𝑥
Determine whether 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥+1 is continuous at 𝑎 = 2. If it is discontinuous, determine the
type of discontinuity.

Solution:
Evaluate 𝑔 at 𝑎 = 2. That is,

2−2
𝑔(2) =
2+1

𝒈(𝟐) = 𝟎
Therefore, 𝑔(𝑎) exists.

Determine if lim 𝑔(𝑥) exists.

𝑥→𝑎

2−2
lim 𝑔(𝑥) =
𝑥→2 2+1

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒈(𝒙) = 𝟎
𝒙→𝟏

𝟐−𝒙
Since lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑔(𝑎) we can say that 𝒈(𝒙) = 𝒙+𝟏 is continuous at 𝒂 = 𝟐.
𝑥→𝑎

Example 3
𝑥 2 +2𝑥−3
Determine whether ℎ(𝑥) = is continuous at 𝑎 = 1. If it is discontinuous, determine
𝑥−1
the type of discontinuity.

Solution:
Clearly, at 𝑎 = 1, function ℎ is not defined, but we can reconstruct our function so that we
can evaluate its limit later. Now,

𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3
ℎ(𝑥) =
𝑥−1

(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 + 3)
ℎ(𝑥) =
𝑥−1

ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 3

At 𝑎 = 1, we have ℎ(1) = 1 + 3 = 4. Evaluating its limit, we have lim ℎ(𝑥) = 1 + 3 = 4.

𝑥→1

50
So, we can say that the given function ℎ has a removable discontinuity. Therefore, we can
redefine the function to

𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 3
𝐻(𝑥) = { 𝑥 − 1 , 𝑥≠1
4 , 𝑥=1

Example 4
1
Determine whether 𝑘(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 is continuous at 𝑎 = 0. If it is discontinuous, determine the
type of discontinuity.

Solution:
Clearly, at 𝑎 = 0, function 𝑘 is not defined. If we are going to evaluate lim 𝑘(𝑥), we can
𝑥→0
observe that the limit does not exist and there is no such way to redefine function 𝑘 to make
1
it continuous. Therefore, we can say that 𝑘(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 has an essential discontinuity.

Practice #9
Try this! ☺
Determine if each of the given functions is continuous at 𝑎. If it is discontinuous, state
which of the three conditions is/are not met and determine what type of discontinuity is
involved.
2𝑥
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = 1−𝑥 2 ; 𝑎 = −1 2. 𝑔(𝑥) = −𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 4; 𝑎 = 4

Process Questions
1. By just looking at the graph of any function, can you really tell whether continuity
or discontinuity exists? Explain.
2. Do you think all quadratic functions are continuous? Why?

Student’s responses:

Please write your answers on page 66.

Continuity on an Interval

51
 Since we are discussed already the continuity of a function at a given point, we will
now expand what we have learned so far in the previous lesson to discuss the continuity of
a function on a given interval.

Consider the graph below.

The given graph above is the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = √4 − 𝑥 2 . Clearly, we can say that 𝑓 is
defined at −2 < 𝑥 < 2; and from this, 𝑓 is said to be continuous for all 𝑥 on the open interval
(−2,2) for which 4 − 𝑥 2 > 0. Now, we will also check whether 𝑓 is still continuous at its
endpoints −2 and 2 to show eventually that it is continuous on the closed interval [−2,2].

i) lim + 𝑓(−2) = √4 − 𝑥 2 = 0 ii) lim− 𝑓(2) = √4 − 𝑥 2 = 0

𝑥→−2 𝑥→2

Since the limit exists for both lim + 𝑓(−2) and lim − 𝑓(2), we can say that 𝑓 is continuous
𝑥→−2 𝑥→−2
on the closed interval [−2,2].

Definition
If 𝑓 is continuous at every point on an open interval (𝑎, 𝑏), we say that 𝒇 is continuous on
(𝒂, 𝒃). On the other hand, we say that 𝒇 is continuous on the closed interval [𝒂, 𝒃], if 𝑓 is
continuous on the open interval (𝑎, 𝑏) and

lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎) and lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑏)

𝑥→𝑎+ 𝑥→𝑏 −

Note: If 𝑓 is continuous on any values of 𝑥 on the given interval (−∞, ∞), we just say that 𝑓 is
Examples
continuous.

52
Example 1
Determine whether 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥+1 is continuous at [−1,3].

Solution:
By just looking at the given function, we can say that 𝑓 is defined on whatever values of 𝑥 on
the given closed interval [−1,3]. Therefore, we can say that 𝒇 is continuous at [−𝟏, 𝟑].

Example 2
1
Determine whether 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥−2 is continuous at [1,4].

Solution:
Function 𝑔 is a rational function in which it is not defined at 𝑥 = 2. Since 2 is included on the
interval [1,4], it implies that 𝑔 is not continuous on the interval (1,4) as well as [1,4].
Therefore, we can say that 𝒈 is not continuous at [𝟏, 𝟒].

Example 3
1
Determine whether ℎ(𝑥) = 𝑥−2 is continuous at [1,2).

Solution:
The given function ℎ is not defined at 𝑥 = 2. Now, we will check whether it is continuous on
the open interval (1,2). Clearly, we can observe that ℎ is continuous on whatever values of 𝑥
on the open interval (1,2).

Based on the definition of the continuity of a function on an interval, we are going to show
that ℎ(1) = lim+ ℎ(𝑥).
𝑥→1

1 1
i) ℎ(1) = 1−2 = −1 ii) lim+ ℎ(𝑥) = 1−2 = −1
𝑥→1

Since ℎ(1) = lim+ ℎ(𝑥), we can say that 𝒉 is continuous at [𝟏, 𝟐).
𝑥→1

Example 4

53
 4 − 𝑥2 , 𝑥 < 1
Determine whether 𝑘(𝑥) = { 2 , 𝑥 = 1 is continuous at (−2,5].
√𝑥 − 1 , 𝑥 > 1

Solution:
We need to investigate whether 𝑘 is continuous on the open interval (−2,5). To do this, using
our previous knowledge on determining the continuity of a function at a given point, let us
investigate first whether 𝑘 is continuous at a given value of 𝑎 (which in this case is 𝑥 = 1).

As a recall, we need to satisfy the following:

(i) 𝑘(𝑎) is defined (ii) lim 𝑘(𝑥) exists (iii) lim 𝑘(𝑥) = 𝑘(𝑎)
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

Now, given 𝑘(𝑎) = 𝑓(1) = 2, we can say that 𝑘(𝑎) is defined. The next thing we need to do
is to evaluate whether the limit exists from both sides of 𝑎 = 1.

lim 𝑘(𝑥) = 4 − 𝑥 2 = 4 − 12 = 3
𝑥→1−

lim 𝑘(𝑥) = √1 − 1 = 0
𝑥→1+

From solution above, we can observe that 𝑘(𝑎) ≠ lim 𝑘(𝑥). Hence, the limit does not exist
𝑥→1
at 𝑥 = 1. Since 1 is included in the interval (−2,5], therefore, we can conclude that 𝒌 is not
continuous at (−𝟐, 𝟓].

Example 5
𝑥 + 3, 𝑥 < 2
Determine whether 𝑀(𝑥) = { is continuous at [1,2].
𝑥2, 𝑥 ≥ 2

Solution:
We need to investigate whether 𝑀 is continuous on the open interval (1,2). Since the given
function has polynomial sub-functions, we can say that it is defined on the open interval
(1,2). Now, we are going to check whether lim+ 𝑀(𝑥) = 𝑀(𝑎) and lim− 𝑀(𝑥) = 𝑀(𝑏).
𝑥→1 𝑥→2

𝑀(𝑎) = 𝑀(1) = 1 + 3 = 4

lim 𝑀(𝑥) = 𝑥 + 3 = 1 + 3 = 4
𝑥→1+

Therefore, lim+ 𝑀(𝑥) = 𝑀(𝑎)

𝑥→1

𝑀(𝑏) = 𝑀(2) = 22 = 4

54
 lim 𝑀(𝑥) = 2 + 3 = 5
𝑥→2−

Therefore, lim+ 𝑀(𝑥) ≠ 𝑀(𝑏)

𝑥→1

𝒙 + 𝟑, 𝒙 < 𝟐
Since we have found out that lim+ 𝑀(𝑥) ≠ 𝑀(𝑏), we can say that 𝑴(𝒙) = { is
𝑥→1 𝒙𝟐 , 𝒙 ≥ 𝟐
not continuous at [𝟏, 𝟐].

Example 6
Determine the intervals on which 𝑓(𝑥) = √𝑥 + 3 is continuous.

Solution:
The given function will be continuous if and only if 𝑥 + 3 ≥ 0. Now, let us solve the inequality
and determine the interval that will make 𝑓 continuous.

𝑥+3≥0
𝑥 ≥ −3

Therefore, we can say that 𝒇(𝒙) = √𝒙 + 𝟑 is continuous on the interval [−𝟑, ∞).

Practice #10
Try this! ☺
Determine if the given function is continuous on each of the given intervals.
3𝑥 − 1 , 𝑥 ≤ −1
2
𝑓(𝑥) = {𝑥 + 5𝑥 , −1 < 𝑥 < 1
3
3𝑥 , 𝑥≥1

1. (−∞, −1] 2. [−1,0] 3. [−1,2) 4. [−1,1] 5. [1, ∞)

Worksheet #3: (See page 63)

55
 REFLECTION
Reflective Essay
Guide Questions:
1. What part of the lesson you find easy?
2. What part of the lesson did you find challenging that you think you need to focus on?
3. In general, how can you relate limits and continuity with what is happening today?

Please write your reflection on page 67.

Answer the L column of the KWL chart.

Write three (3) specific ideas you have learned from the topics discussed.

K W L
(What I know) (What I want to know) (What I learned)

56
57
 ACTION
Mini-Task 1: Solving Problems Involving Limits and Continuity Through Video Presentation

Instructions: You will be given problem sets involving Limits and Continuity. You are going to
answer these problem sets, and you will create a pre-recorded video on how you solved each
problem in the set. You will also explain the process of the solution by emphasizing major
components of the topics that were discussed in class. The video presentation may include concept
sharing, solving techniques, applications, etc. You may use applications like MS PowerPoint, online
whiteboard, physical whiteboard, manila paper, etc., depending on the availability of resources you

THIS WILL BE
have at home.

File Type: MPEG-4 (.mp4)

Filename: STEM 308_Mini-Task 1_Section_Group Number

Your work will be evaluated based on the rubric below.

POSTED ON
Criteria Outstanding Very Good Good Needs Improvement

The video covers all the The video covers all The video covers only The video is missing essential contents
problems given in the the problems given some of the problems based on the given problem sets;
problem set; explicitly in the problem set; given in the problem showed the process of solving the
showed and explain the showed and explain set; showed the problem but is incorrect or unclear;
process of solving each the process of process of solving each outline of the video presentation is not
Content and problem; evidently solving each problem; outline of the evident; and lacks emphasis in
Organization planned the outline of the problem; planned video presentation is explaining the major components of

OUR MS TEAMS
video presentation by the outline of the evident but could be the topic.
smoothly transitioning video presentation; improved; and some
from one problem to and major major components of
another problem; and components of the the topic are not given
major components of the topic are given emphasis.
topic are given emphasis. emphasis.

(15)
(10)

GENERAL
Presentation Skills
Excellent transitions to
connect a topic to the
other and sustain
viewer’s attention.
(13)
Segments of the
connected are
connected well;
transitions are
effectively observed
and communicates
(12)
Segments of the
tutorial are not
connected efficiently;
there is limited to no
use of transitions and
verbal cues to link
The presenter of the tutorial is not
linking ideas and is just barely reading
scripts.

CHANNEL
with the viewers. ideas.

(8)
(15) (12) (10)
Attractive and creative Attractive and Effort is shown in Shows little effort in portraying
design of slides/board. creative design of creating attractive and creativity in the slides/boards. The use
Creativity Effective way of using slides/board. The appealing slide/board of text, images, and effects have little
images, text, and effects use of images, text, designs. Able to use to no impact in the delivery of the
to deliver their message. and effects are images, text, and message.
Leaves a lasting impact to appropriately used effects together.
the viewer. to deliver their
message.
(10) (8) (6) (4)

GRAND TOTAL:
/40

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 PRE-TEST (ANSWER KEY)

1. B 6. A

2. B 7. A

THIS WILL
3. BE
D POSTED
8. ON
C OUR MS
TEAMS
4. GENERAL
C 9. CHANNEL
B

5. B 10. C

Answers to Practice Problems

Practice #1
1. 3 2a. 1 2b. −1 2c. DNE 2d. DNE 2e. 5

Practice #2
1
1. 12 2. − 6 3. 0 4. 0 5. Does not exist

Practice #3
1 3 1
1. − 1 2. − 8 3. − 8 4. 4

Practice #4
a) -2 b) -2 c) -2
d) 1 e) 1 f) 1
g) -2 h) 1 i) DNE
j) undefined k) 1 l) -2

Practice #5: -∞

Practice #6: 5

Practice #7: +∞

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Practice # 8
1
1. 2
2. 1
3. 4
1+√3
4. 2
5. Does Not Exist or No Limit
1
6. 3
7. 0
8. Does Not Exist or No Limit
9. 1
10. 1

Practice #9

1. 𝑓 is not continuous at 𝑎 = −1. Since it is not defined at 𝑎 and it does not satisfy (ii),
therefore the type of discontinuity involved is essential.

2. 𝑔 is a continuous function at 𝑎 = 4.

Practice #10

1. Continuous 4. Discontinuous
2. Continuous 5. Continuous
3. Discontinuous

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 EVALUATION

Worksheet #1: LIMITS (Part 1)

Evaluate the following limits: (2 pts each)

−𝑥 4 +5𝑥+6
1. lim (𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 5)3 2. lim3
𝑥→−8 𝑥→ 𝑥−3
2

THIS WILL BE
8−4𝑥 3 2𝑥 2 −3𝑥+5
3. lim 4. lim √
𝑥→2 2𝑥 2 −𝑥−6 𝑥→−3 𝑥+6

𝑥 2 −2𝑥 𝑥 2 −4𝑥

POSTED ON
5. lim 6. lim
𝑥→5 𝑥−5 𝑥→0 𝑥 3 −3𝑥 2 −2𝑥

√2𝑥−5−1 5𝑥−4
7. lim 8. lim
𝑥→3 𝑥 2 −9 𝑥→7 𝑥 2 −3𝑥−28

OUR MS TEAMS
9. lim
𝑥→2
3−√𝑥 2 +5
𝑥 2 −2𝑥
10. lim (
𝑥→2 3𝑥 2 −2𝑥−3
3𝑥 2 +2𝑥
)
3

ASSIGNMENTS
TAB
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 Worksheet # 2: LIMITS (Part 2)

Evaluate the following limits. (20 pts)

One-sided limit:
⎹ 𝑥 + 2 ⎸ + 1, 𝑥 < −1
1. Given 𝑓(𝑥) = { −𝑥 + 1, − 1 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 1 (3 pts.)
𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 2, 𝑥>1

THIS WILL BE
a. lim 𝑓(𝑥) b. lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) c. lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→ 1− 𝑥→ 1 𝑥→ 1

Infinite Limits:
𝑥 2 − 3𝑥 + 2
2. 𝑓(𝑥) = (3 pts.)
𝑥+1

POSTED ON
a. lim 𝑓(𝑥) b. lim + 𝑓(𝑥) c. lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→− 1− 𝑥→ −1 𝑥→ −1

Limits at Infinity:

OUR MS TEAMS
5𝑥 2 − 3
3. lim (2 pts)
𝑥→∞ 8𝑥 2 −2𝑥 + 1

Infinite Limits and Infinity

1 + 𝑥2
4. lim (2 pts)

ASSIGNMENTS
𝑥→∞ 1 + 𝑥

Limits of Trigonometric Functions

𝑡𝑎𝑛2 𝑥 cos 3𝑥
5. lim𝜋 𝑥 (2 pts)
𝑥→ sec −cot 2𝑥
3 2

TAB
sin 2𝑥
6. lim sin 3𝑥 (2 pts)
𝑥→0

1−cos 8𝑡
7. lim (2 pts)
𝑡→0 3 sin 3𝑡

𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝑟
8. lim (2 pts)
𝑟→0 4𝑟 2 +3𝑟

tan 4𝑦
9. lim (2 pts)
𝑦→0 4𝑦

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 Worksheet #3: Continuity

A. Determine if each of the given function is continuous at the given value of 𝒂. If the
function is discontinuous, state which of the conditions is/are not satisfied and
determine what type of discontinuity is involved. (2pts each)

3𝑥 2 +2 𝑥 2 −1
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = ;𝑎 = 2 2. 𝑔(𝑥) = ;𝑎 = 1
𝑥+2 𝑥−1

THIS WILL BE
𝑥
2
3. 𝑘(𝑥) = {√9 −2 𝑥 , −3 ≤ 𝑥 < 3 ; 𝑎 = 3
, 𝑥≥3
4. ℎ(𝑥) = √𝑥 3
3𝑥
+𝑥 2
;𝑎 = 0

POSTED ON 1
5. 𝐽(𝑥) = cos (𝑥) ; 𝑎 = 0

OUR MS TEAMS
B. Determine if each of the given functions is continuous on each given intervals.
(10 pts)

ASSIGNMENTS
4
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥+1

a. (−∞, −1) c. (−2, −1] e. (−2, ∞)

b. (−2, −1) d. [−1,1]

TAB 𝑥 2 − 1 , 𝑥 < −5
2. 𝑔(𝑥) = {√25 − 𝑥 2 , −5 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 5
5−𝑥 , 𝑥 >5

a. (−∞, −5) c. [−5,5] e. (4, ∞)

b. (−6, −4] d. [−5,5)

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 PROCESS QUESTIONS

Process Questions (from page 19)

1. How to determine the limit of a function through table of values? graphing?
2. How to determine that the limit of a function does not exist through tables of
values? graphing?
3. Why is it incorrect to say that say that the lim 𝑓(𝑥) “equals DNE”, nor do we write
𝑥→𝑎
“lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐷𝑁𝐸?
𝑥→𝑎

4. Is it correct to say that the lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑎) since 𝑎 is in the domain of 𝑓? Why? Why
𝑥→𝑎
not?
Student’s responses:

Process Questions (from page 23)

1. What could be the possible cases that the limit of a function does not exist?
2. In which real-life situation can you apply the practical (may not be mathematical)
concept of limit?
3. How does limit describes the behavior of a function?
4. What concepts in algebra are needed in evaluating limits of a function?
Student’s responses:

64
 Process Questions (from page 24)
1. What are the strategies that need to be mindful of in solving the actual limit of the
0
function when its initial limit is indeterminate of type " 0 ".

2. How important the concepts of factoring or rationalizing when the limit of the
0
function is indeterminate of type " 0 "?

Student’s responses:

Process Questions (from page 40)

1. When we conclude that the limit of a certain function is -∞ or +∞, does the limit really
exist? Explain.

2. Is it meaningful or possible to operate infinities such as:

0 ∞
, , or ∞ - ∞?
0 ∞

Explain your answer for each of the three situations above.

Student’s responses:

65
Process Questions (from page 47)
1. Is there a limit involving trigonometric functions that will not exist? Cite an
example.
2. Is there any case where the limit of trigonometric functions can be
determined through observation of some values of the function or its graph?
Cite an example.

Student’s responses:

Process Questions (from page 51)

1. By just looking at the graph of any function, can you really tell whether continuity
or discontinuity exists? Explain.
2. Do you think all quadratic functions are continuous? Why?

Student’s responses:

66
Reflective Essay (from page 57)
Guide Questions:
1. What part of the lesson you find easy?
2. What part of the lesson did you find challenging that you think you need to focus on?
3. In general, how can you relate limits and continuity with what is happening today?

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 Congratulations!
You are about to complete this module. Now, answer the post-assessment to check how well you
learned.

----POST TEST----

1 − cos t
1. Which of the following is the value of lim ?
t →0 t
A. 0 B. 1 C. 2 D. 3

x3 −1
2. Which of the following is the lim ?
x→
1 x2 −1

THIS WILL BE
2

2 1 3 42
A. B. C. D.
3 2 2 6


 − x + 4 if x  − 2
2
3. Given f(x) =  2 . Evaluate lim − f ( x ).

 x − 4 if x  − 2
x→ −2

POSTED ON
A. 8 B. 4 C. 2 D. 0

x2 + x + 2
4. Evaluate lim − 2 .
x→ −1 x − 2 x − 3

A. – 1 B. 1 C. −  D. + 

OUR MS TEAMS
5. Evaluate lim

A. 0
x→ − 
2x 2 + 1
4x + 2

B. 1
.

C.
2
D.
− 2

ASSIGNMENTS
4 4
5x
6. Given that y = , the x-values where the function is continuous are
( x − 2 )2
B. (− ,−2) B. (2,+) C. (− ,2)  (2,+) D. 2,+)

TAB
sin t
7. Which of the following is the value of lim ?
t→0 t
A. 0 B. 1 C. 2 D. 3

68
 x3 −1
8. Which of the following is the lim 3 ?
x→
1 x2 −1
2

− 252 − 3 252 3
252 252
A. B. C. D.
6 6 6 6

5x

THIS WILL BE
9. Given that y = , the x values where the function is continuous are
(3 − x )2
A. (− ,3) B. (3,+) C. 3,+) D. (− ,3)  (3,+)

x2 + x + 2

POSTED ON
10. Evaluate lim + 2 .
x→ −1 x − 2x − 3
A. – 1 B. 1 C. −  D. + 

OUR MS TEAMS
ASSIGNMENTS
TAB

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 SELF-ASSESSMENT
Before moving on to the next module, kindly complete the table below.

Were you
able to
Actual Date of
Lesson Worksheet No. complete the Reason(s):
Completion
task on
time?
1
Limits – Part 1

Limits – Part 2 2

Continuity 3

Mini Task 1

Congratulations! You have completed Module 1. You can now proceed to the
next module.

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