Abdullah Rahman sir

CONTINUITY Ch-5

1. Continuity and discontinuity of function: A function y = f(x) said to be continuous in an interval if

for every value of x in that interval y exists. If we plot the points, the graph is drawn without
lifting the pencil.
If we have to lift pencil on drawing graph of the curve, then the function is said to be
discontinuous function.
2. Continuity and discontinuity of function at a point: A function f(x) is said to be continuous at a
point a of its domain if
lim ¿, lim ¿, f (a) exists and lim ¿ = lim ¿ f (a)
−¿ +¿ −¿ +¿
x→ a f (x)¿ x→ a f (x)¿ x→ a f (x)¿ x→ a f (x)=¿ ¿

A function f ( x) is said to be discontinuous at x = a , if it is not continuous at x = a

There are three cases of discontinuity of a function
Case 1. lim ¿ = −¿
x→ a f (x)¿
lim ¿ f (a)
+¿
x→ a f (x)≠ ¿

This is called removable discontinuity.

Case 2. lim ¿≠ lim ¿

−¿ +¿
x→ a f (x)¿ x→ a f (x)¿
This is first type of discontinuity.

Case 3. lim ¿ does not ∃

−¿
x→ a f (x)¿

Or lim ¿ does not ∃

+¿
x→ a f (x)¿
This is first type of discontinuity.

3. Properties of Continuous Function:

Theorem 1 If f and g are two continuous functions at a point a , then
(i) f +g is continuous at a.
(ii) f −g is continuous at a.
(iii) f . g is continuous at a.
(iv) f +g is continuous at a.
(v) c . f is continuous at a. where c is a constant.
(vi) |f | is continuous at a.
 Every constant function is continuous function.
 Every polynomial function is continuous function.
 Identity function is continuous function.
 Every logarithmic and exponential function is continuous function
 Every rational function is continuous.
 Every trigonometric function is continuous in its Domain
Theorem 2. Suppose f and g are real valued functions such that (f o g) is defined at c. If g is
continuous at c and if f is continuous at g (c), then (f o g) is continuous at c.
The following examples illustrate this theorem.
Example 19 Show that the function defined by f(x) = sin ( x 2 ) is a continuous function.

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
Solution Observe that the function is defined for every real number. The function f may be thought of
as a composition g o h of the two functions g and h, where g (x) = sin x and
h (x) = x 2 . Since both g and h are continuous functions, by Theorem 2,
Example 20. Show that the function f defined by f(x) = |1 – x + | x ||, where x is any real number,
is a continuous function.
Solution. Define g by g (x) = 1 – x + | x| and h by h (x) = | x| for all real x.
Then (h o g) (x) = h (g (x)) = h (1– x + | x |) = | 1– x + | x | | = f(x)
we know that h is a continuous function. Hence g being a sum of a polynomial function and the
modulus function is continuous. But then f being a composite of two continuous functions is
continuous.
EXERCISE 5.1
1. Prove that the function f(x) = 5x – 3 is continuous at x = 0, at x = – 3 and at x = 5.
Solution: Given function f(x) = 5x – 3
At x=0 , f ( 0 )=5 ( 0 ) −3=−3
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 0 f ( x )= lim ¿ ¿
−¿
−¿
x →0 (5 x−3)=−3 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) = +¿
lim ¿¿
x→0 (5 x−3)=−3 ¿

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( 0 )=−3

Hence, the function f is continuous at x=0
At x=−3 , f (−3 )=(−15−3 )=−18
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→−3 f ( x )= lim
−¿
¿¿ −¿
x →−3 (5 x−3)=−18 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→−3 f ( x ) = +¿
lim ¿¿
x→−3 (5 x−3)=−18 ¿

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f (−3 )=−18

Hence, the function f is continuous at x=−3
At x=5 , f ( 5 ) =( 25−3 )=22
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 5 f ( x )= lim ¿¿
−¿
−¿
x →5 (5 x−3)=¿23¿ ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 5 f ( x )= +¿
lim ¿¿
x→5 (5 x−3 )=¿22¿¿

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( 5 )=22

Hence, the function f is continuous at x=22

2. Examine the continuity of the function f(x) = 2 x 2 – 1 at x = 3.

Solution:
Given function f(x) = 2 x 2 – 1

At x=3 , f ( 3 )=2 (3 )2−1=17

lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ 3 f ( x ) =
−¿
lim ¿¿
x →3 (2 x −1) =¿ 17¿¿
2

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 3 f ( x )=
+¿
lim ¿¿
x→3 (2 x −1)=17 ¿
2

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( 3 )=17

Hence, the function f is continuous at x=3

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CONTINUITY Ch-5

3. Examine the following functions for continuity.

2
1
(a) f ( x )=x −5 ( b ) f ( x ) = ( c ) f ( x )= x −25 ( d ) f ( x )=|x −5|
x−5 x +5
Solution: (a) Given function f(x) = x−5
Let, k be any real number. At x=k , f ( k )=( k−5 )
lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ k f ( x )= −¿
lim ¿¿
x→k ( x−5 )=k −5 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ k f ( x ) = +¿
lim ¿¿
x→ k (x−5)=k−5 ¿

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( k )=k −5

Hence, the function f is continuous for all real numbers.
1
(b) Given function f(x) =
x−5

Let, k (k ≠ 5) be any real number. At x=, f ( k )= ( k−5

1
)
lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ k f ( x ) = lim ¿¿
x→k
−¿
( x−5
1
)= k−5
1
¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ k f ( x ) = lim ¿¿
+¿
x→ k ( x−5
1
)= k−5
1
¿

1
Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( k )=
k −5
Hence, the function f is continuous at for all real numbers except 5
2
x −25
(c) Given function f(x) =
x +5

( )
2
k −25
Let k ( k ≠−5 ) , be any real number At x=k , f ( k )= =k −5
k+5
lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ k f ( x ) = lim
lim (k−5)(k+ 5)
¿¿ = k −5
( kk−25
+5 )
2
−¿ x → k−¿
x→k = ¿¿
k+ 5

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ k f ( x ) = lim ¿¿
( k k+−255 )=
2
+¿
x→ k lim ¿ ¿¿
( k−5)( k +5)
x → k +¿ =k −5
k +5

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( k )=k −5

Hence, the function f is continuous for all real numbers (except x=−5)

(d) Given function f(x) = |x−5|= {5−x , x <5

x−5 , x ≥ 5

Let k be any real number. According to question, k < 5 , k=5∨k >5

First case: If k < 5, f ( k )=( 5−k )

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
And lim f ( x )=lim ( 5−x )=5−k
x →k x →k

Or lim f ( x )=f (k )
x →k
Hence, the function is continuous for all real numbers less than 5
Second case: If k =5, f ( k )=( k−5 ) and lim f ( x )=lim ( x−5 )=¿ k−5 ¿ x →k x →k

Here, lim f ( x )=f (k )

x →k
Hence, the function is continuous at x = 5
Third case: If k > 5
f ( k )=( k−5 ) and lim f ( x )=lim ( x−5 )=¿ k−5 ¿
x →k x →k
Hence, the function is continuous for all real numbers greater than 5
Hence, the function f is continuous for all real numbers.

4. Prove that the function f(x) = x n is continuous at x = n, where n is a positive integer.

Solution: Given function f(x) = x n

At x=n , f ( n )=n n
n n
lim f ( x )=lim x =n
x →n x →n
n
Here, at x=n , lim f ( x )=f ( n )=n
x →n
Hence, the function f is continuous at x=n where n is a positive integer.

5. Is the function f defined by

f ( x )=
x , if x ≤1
5 , if x >1 { continuous at x=0. At x=1 At x = 2?

Solution: Given function f(x) = {5x ,, if x ≤ 1

if x >1

At x=0 , f ( 0 )=( 0 )=0

lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 0 f ( x )= lim
−¿
−¿
¿¿
x →0 ( x )=0¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x→0 (0) =0 ¿

Here, L.H.L = R.H.L= f ( 0 )=0

Hence, the function f is continuous at x=0
At x=1 , f ( 1 )=1
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 1 f ( x )= lim ¿ ¿
−¿
−¿
x →1 ( x )=1 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x →1 ( 5)=5¿

Here, L.H.L ≠ R.H.L

Hence, the function f is discontinuous at x=1
At x=2 , f ( 2 )=5

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
L.H.L = lim f ( x )=5
x →2

R.H.L = lim f ( x )=f (2)

x →2
Hence, the function f is continuous at x=2

Find all points of discontinuity of f where f is defined by

6. f ( x )= {
2 x+ 3 , ifx ≤ 2
2 x−3 ifx>2

Solution: Given function f(x) = 2 x+3 , x ≤2

= 2 x−3 , x >2
The domain of the function is ¿ ∪(2, ∞)
Here, the partitioning point is x = 2
Now, for x ≤ 2 , f ( x )=2 x +3 is a polynomial hence, it is continuous
And for x >2 ( x )=2 x−3 is a polynomial hence, it is continuous for all x ∈ R− {2 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 2
lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ 2 f ( x ) = −¿
lim ¿¿
x →2 (2 x+3 )=2( 2)+ 3=7 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 2 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x→2 2 (2 )−3=1 ¿

Here, lim ¿≠ lim ¿

−¿ +¿
x→ 2 f ( x ) ¿ x→ 2 f ( x ) ¿
∴ lim f ( x ) does not exists hence, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 2 only.
x→ 2

{
|x|+3 if x ≤−3
7. f ( x ) = −2 x if −3< x<3
6 x +2 if x ≥ 3
|x|+3 if x ≤−3 …(i)
Solution: Given function −2 x if −3< x< 3 …(ii)
6 x +2 if x ≥ 3 …(iii)
Here, f(x) is define for x ≤−3 i. e (−∞ ,−3 ] also for−3< x <3 andx ≥ 3
∴ Domainof f (x)=¿ (−∞ ,−3 ] ∪ (−3 , 3 ) ∪ [ 3 , ∞ ) =(−∞, ∞ )
By (i ) f(x) = −x +3 for all x ≤−3 which is a polynomial hence continuous.
By (ii) for all x, (−3< x <3 ), f ( x )=−2 x is a polynomial hence continuous.
By (iii) for all x >3, f ( x )=6 x +2is a polynomial hence continuous.
Therefore, f ( x ) is continuous on R−{ 3 ,3 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = −3
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→−3 f ( x )= −¿
lim ¿¿ −¿
x→−3 (−x+ 3) =−(−3)+ 3=6 ¿

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
lim ¿
R.H.L = x→−3 f ( x ) =
+¿
lim
+¿
¿¿
x→−3 −2 (−3)=6¿

f (−3 )=−(−3 )+3=6

lim ¿
−¿
x→−3 f ( x )= lim ¿¿ f (−3 )=6
+¿
x→−3 f ( x )=¿¿

∴ f (x) is continuous at x=−3

Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 3
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 3 f ( x )= −¿
lim ¿¿ −¿
x →3 (−2 x ) =−2(−3)=6 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 3 f ( x )= +¿
lim ¿¿
x→3 6(3 )+ 2=20 ¿

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 3 f ( x ) ≠ lim
+¿
¿¿
x→3 f ( x )¿

Hence, lim f ( x ) does not exists.

x →3
Therefore, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 3 only.

{
|x|
ifx ≠ 0
8. f ( x )= x
0 , if x=0
|x|
Solution: Given function. f ( x )= if x ≠ 0
x
−x
= if x< 0 ¿
x
= −1 … (i)
And f ( x )=1 if x >0 .. (ii)
Also f(x) = 0 if x = 0
By ( i ) f ( x )=−1 is constant function and hence, continuous.
By ( ii ) f ( x )=1 is constant function and hence, continuous.
Therefore, f(x) is continuous on R−{ 0 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 0
lim ¿
L.H.L −¿ |0−h|
lim h
h→0
x→ 0 f ( x ) =¿ lim f ( 0−h) =¿ lim = =−1 ¿¿¿
h→ 0 h→ 0 0−h −h
lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿ |0 +h|
lim h
h→ 0
x→ 0 f ( x ) =¿ lim f ( 0+ h) =¿lim = =1 ¿¿¿
h →0 h →0 0 +h h
lim ¿
−¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) ≠ lim
+¿
¿¿
x→0 f ( x ) ¿

Hence, lim f ( x ) does not exists.

x →0
Therefore, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 0 only.

{
x
, if x <0 ,
9. f ( x )= |x|
−1 if x ≥ 0

Solution: Given function

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5

{
x x
, if x <0 ,∨ =−1if x< 0
f ( x )= |x| −x
−1 if x ≥0
Or f ( x )=−1 for x <0∧x ≥ 0
∴ Domain of f(x) is (−∞ , 0 ) ∪ [ 0 , ∞ )=R
Here , f ( x )=−¿1 is a constant function, and we know that every constant function is continuous
function.
Hence, f ( x ) is continuous for all x ∈ R
Therefore, f (x) has no point of discontinuity.

Solution:

{
10. f ( x )= 2
x+1 , ifx ≥ 1
x +1 , if x <1
Solution: Given function
x +1 , ifx ≥ 1 …(i)
f ( x )= 2
x + 1 , if x <1 …(ii)
Here , f (x ) = x +1 for x ≥1 is a polynomial hence, continuous.
And , f ( x )=x 2 +1 for x <1 is a polynomial hence , continuous .
Hence, f(x) is continuous on R−{1 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 1
lim ¿
L.H.L x→ 1 f ( x )=¿ lim ¿ ¿¿
−¿
−¿ 2
x→1 x + 1=2 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L x→ 1 +¿
f ( x ) =¿ lim
+¿
¿ ¿¿
x→ 1 x+ 1=2 ¿

f ( 1 ) =1+ 1=2
lim ¿
∴ L.H.L x→ 1 −¿
f ( x ) =¿ R . H . L +¿
lim ¿ ¿¿
x →1 f ( x )=¿ f (1)=2 ¿¿

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

Therefore, f (x) has no point of discontinuity.

11. f ( x )= {
x 3−3 if ≤2
x 2 +1 if x >2
3
x −3 if ≤ 2 …(i)
Solution: Given function f ( x )= 2
x +1 if x >2 …(ii)
Here, f(x) is define for x ≤ 2 i. e (−∞ , 2 ] andx> 2
∴ Domainof f (x)=¿ (−∞ , 2 ] ∪ ( 2 , ∞ )=(−∞ , ∞) = R
By (i ) f(x) = x 3−3for all x ≤ 2 which is a polynomial hence continuous..
By (ii) for all x >2, f ( x )=x 2 +1is a polynomial and hence continuous.
Therefore, f ( x ) is continuous on R−{ 2 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 2
lim ¿
L.H.L x→ 2 f ( x )=¿ lim ¿ ¿¿
−¿
−¿ 3
x→2 x −3=5 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L x→ 2 +¿
f ( x )= ¿ lim ¿ ¿¿
+¿ 2
x→ 2 x +1=5 ¿

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
f ( 2 )=23−3=5
lim ¿
∴ L.H.L x→ 2 −¿
f ( x ) =¿ R . H . L +¿
lim ¿¿¿
x →2 f ( x ) =¿ f (2) =5 ¿¿

Hence , f (x) is continuous at x = 2.

Therefore, f (x) has no point of discontinuity.

12. f ( x )= {x 10−1 if x ≤ 1
x2 ifx>1

Solution: Given function f(x) = x 10−1 , x ≤1

= x 2 , x >1
The domain of the function is (−∞ , 1 ] ∪ ( 1 , ∞ )=(−∞ , ∞ )=R
Here, the partitioning point is x = 1
Now, for x ≤ 1 , f ( x )=x 10−1 is a polynomial hence, it is continuous

And for x >1 ( x )=x 2 is a polynomial hence, it is continuous for all x ∈ R− {1 }

Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 1
lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) =
−¿
lim ¿¿
x →1 ( x −1 )=1−1=0¿
10

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = lim ¿¿
+¿ 2
x→1 1 =1¿

Here, lim ¿≠ lim ¿

−¿ +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) ¿ x→ 1 f ( x ) ¿
∴ lim f ( x ) does not exists hence, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 1 only
x→ 1

13. Is the function defined by f ( x )= {xx−5

+5 , ifx ≤1
ifx> 1
a continuous function.

Solution: The domain of the function is (−∞ , 1 ] ∪ ( 1 , ∞ )=(−∞ , ∞ )=R

Here, the partitioning point is x = 1
Now, for x ≤ 1 , f ( x )=x +5 is a polynomial hence, it is continuous
And for x >1 ( x )=x−5 is a polynomial hence, it is continuous for all x ∈ R− {1 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 1
lim ¿
L.H.L = −¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = −¿
lim ¿¿
x →1 (x+ 5)=1+ 5=6¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x→1 1−5=−4 ¿

Here, lim ¿≠ lim ¿

−¿ +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) ¿ x→ 1 f ( x ) ¿
∴ lim f ( x ) does not exists hence, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 1 only
x→ 1

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
Discuss the continuity of the function f ,where f is defined by

{
3 , if 0 ≤ x ≤1
14. f ( x )= 4 , if 1< x <3
5 , if 3≤ x ≤10

{
3 if 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 …(i)
Solution: Given function f ( x )= 4 if 1< x <3 …(ii)
5 if 3 ≤ x ≤10 … (iii)
From (i) , (ii) and ( iii ) f (x ) is defined in [ 0 , 1 ] ∪ ( 1 , 3 ) ∪ [3 ,10]
∴ Domainof f ( x )= [ 0 ,1 ] ∪ ( 1, 3 ) ∪ [ 3 ,10 ] =[0 , 10]
By (i ) for 0 ≤ x<1 f(x) = 3 is constant function hence continuous for0 ≤ x<1 .
By (ii) for 1< x <3 f(x) = 4 is constant function hence continuous for1< x <3 .
By (iii) for 3< x ≤10 f(x) = 5 is constant function hence continuous for3< x ≤10
Therefore, f ( x ) is continuous in the domain [ 0 , 10 ] −{1 , 3 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 1
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 1 f ( x )= lim ¿¿ −¿
−¿
x →1 (3)=3 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x →1 4 =4 ¿

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) ≠ lim +¿
¿¿
x→1 f (x )¿

lim f ( x ) does not ∃∴ f (x ) is discontinuous at x=1

x →1
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 3
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 3 f ( x )= lim ¿¿ −¿
−¿
x →3 4¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 3 f ( x )= lim +¿
¿¿
x→3 5=5 ¿

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 3 f ( x ) ≠ lim
+¿
¿¿
x→3 f ( x )¿

Hence, lim f ( x ) does not exists.

x →3
Or, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 3.
∴ x=1 , x=3 are two points of discontinuity of the function in its domain [0 ,10 ]

{
2x if x< 0
15. f ( x )= 0 , if 0 ≤ x ≤ 1
4x if x >1

{
2x if x <0 …(i)
Solution: Given function f ( x ) = 0 , if 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 …(ii)
4 x if x> 1 …(iii)
Here, f(x) is define for (−∞ , 0 ) ∪ [ 0 ,1 ] ∪ ( 1 , ∞ ) =(−∞ , ∞ )=R
∴ Domainof f (x)=(−∞ ,0 ) ∪ [ 0 , 1 ] ∪ ( 1 , ∞ )=(−∞ , ∞ )=R
By (i ) f(x) = 2 x for all x <0 which is a polynomial hence continuous.
By (ii) for all x, ( 0< x <1 ) , f ( x )=0is a constant function hence continuous.
By (iii) for all x >1, f ( x )=4 x is a polynomial hence continuous.

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
Therefore, f ( x ) is continuous on R−{ 0 ,1 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 0
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 0 f ( x )= lim ¿ ¿
−¿
−¿
x→0 (2 x )=2(0 )=0 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) = lim +¿
¿¿
x→0 0=0 ¿

f ( 0 )=0
lim ¿
−¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿ f ( 0 )=0
x→0 f ( x )=¿¿

∴ f (x) is continuous at x=¿0

Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 1
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 1 f ( x )= lim ¿ ¿
−¿
−¿
x →1 (0)=0 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x →1 4 (1)=4¿

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) ≠ lim
+¿
¿¿
x→1 f (x )¿

Hence, lim f ( x ) does not exists.

x →3
Therefore, f(x) is discontinuous at x = 1.
Thus f(x) is continuous at every point in the domain except x = 1
Hence, f(x) is not a continuous function and x = 1 is only point of discontinuity.

{
−2 if x ≤−1
16. f ( x ) = 2 x if −1≤ x ≤ 1
2 if x >1

{
−2 if x ≤−1 …(i)
Solution: Given function f ( x ) = 2 x , if −1≤ x ≤ 1 …(ii)
2 if x >1 …(iii )
From ( i ) , ( ii ) ,∧( iii ), we can see that f(x) is define for
¿ ∪ [ −1 ,1 ] ∪ ( 1 , ∞ ) =(−∞ , ∞ )=R
∴ Domainof f (x)=¿ ∪ [−1 , 1 ] ∪ ( 1 , ∞ )=(−∞ , ∞ )=R
By (i ) f(x) = −2 for all x ←1 is a constant function hence continuous for x <1 .
By (ii) for all x, (−1< x <1 ) , f ( x )=2 x is a polynomial hence continuous for (−1< x <1 ) .
By (iii) for all x >1, f ( x )=2is a constant function hence continuous for x >1 .
Therefore, f ( x ) is continuous on R−{−1 ,1 }
Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = −1
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→−1 f ( x )= lim ¿ ¿ −¿
−¿
x→−1 (−2)=−2 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = x→−1 f ( x ) =
+¿
lim
+¿
¿¿
x→−1 2 x=−2¿

f (−1 )=−2
lim ¿
−¿
x→−1 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿ f (−1 )=−2
x→−1 f ( x )=¿¿

∴ f (x) is continuous at x=−1

Let us examine the continuity at the partitioning point x = 1
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 1 f ( x )= lim ¿¿
−¿
−¿
x →1 (2 x )=2¿

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = lim +¿
¿¿
x→1 (2)=2¿

f ( 1 ) =2

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = +¿
lim ¿¿
x →1 f ( x )=f (1)=2 ¿

Hence, lim f ( x ) exists.

x →1
Therefore, f(x) is continuous at x = 1.
Thus f(x) is continuous at every point in the domain.

17. Find the relationship between a and b so that the function f defined by
f ( x )=
ax +1 if x ≤ 3
bx +3 , if x >3 {
is continuous at x = 3

Solution: Given function f ( x )=

ax +1 if x ≤3 … (i)
bx +3 , if x> 3 …(ii) {
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ 3 f ( x )= lim ¿¿ … (1) −¿
−¿
x →3 ax+1=3 a+1 ¿

lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ 3 f ( x )= +¿
lim ¿¿ … (2)
x→3 bx+ 3=3b +3 ¿

Since f(x) is continuous at x = 3

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 3 f ( x ) = lim +¿
¿¿
x →3 f (x )¿

⇒ 3 a+ 1=3 b+3
2
⇒ a=b+
3
18. For what value of λ is the function defined by

{
f ( x )= λ ( x −2 x ) , if x ≤ 0 continuous at x = 0? What about continuity at x = 1?
2

4 x +1 if x >0
λ ( x 2−2 x ) , if x ≤ 0 …(1)
Solution: Given function f ( x )=¿
4 x +1 if x >0 …(2)
lim ¿
Now, −¿
x→ 0 f (x)= lim ¿¿
−¿ 2
x →0 λ( x −2 x)=λ (0 )=0¿

lim ¿
+¿
x→ 0 f (x)= +¿
lim ¿¿
x→0 4( x)+1=0+ 1=1 ¿

∴ lim ¿
−¿
x → 0 f (x)≠ lim
+¿
¿¿
x →0 f (x)¿

⇒ lim f (x) does not exists what ever λ may be

x →0
Therefore, there is no value of λ for which f(x) is continuous at x = 0.
To examine the continuity at x = 1
L . H . L= lim ¿
−¿
x→ 1 f (x)= −¿
lim ¿¿
x →1 4x +1=4 (1) +1=5¿

R . H . L= lim ¿
+¿
x→ 1 f (x)= +¿
lim ¿¿
x→1 4 x+1=4 (1) +1=5 ¿

f ( 1 ) =4 (1)+1=5
∴ L. H . L= lim ¿
−¿
x →1 f ( x)=L .H . L= +¿
lim ¿¿
x→ 1 f (x)=f ( 1)=5¿

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
⇒ f ( x ) is continuous at x = 1 ( for all real values of λ )

19. Show that the function defined by g (x) = x – [x] is discontinuous at all integral points. Here [x]
denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x.
Solution: Given g (x) = x – [x]
Let x = c be any integer ( i.e. c ∈ Z )
lim ¿
L.H.L = x→ c g ( x )=lim g (c−h) ¿
−¿

h →0

¿ lim ( c−h ) −[c−h ]

h→ 0

= lim ( c−h )−(c−1) = 1 ¿

h→ 0
lim ¿
R.H.L = +¿
x→ c g ( x ) =lim g ( c+h ) ¿
h →0

= lim ( c+ h )−[c+ h]
h→ 0

= lim ( c+ h )−(c ) =lim h=0 ¿

h→ 0 h→ 0

∴ lim g (x) does not exists, hence g(x ) is discontinuous at x = c (any integer)
x→ c
Thus ,g (x) = x – [x] is discontinuous at all integral points

20. Is the function defined by f(x) = x 2 – sin x + 5 continuous at x = π?

Solution: Given f(x) = x 2 – sin x + 5
= x 2+ 5−sinx
¿ g ( x )−h ( x ) … (i)
We know that g ( x )=x 2+5 is a polynomial function is continuous for all real x .
And h ( x )=sinx being a sine function is continuous for all real x.
∴ By (i) f(x) = x 2 – sin x + 5 = g ( x )−h ( x )
being difference of two continuous function is also continuous for all real values of x.
Hence , continuous at x = π (∈ R)
¿
2 2 2
lim f (x)=lim x −sinx+5=π −sinπ +5=π + 5∵ sinπ=0
x→ π x →π

2 2
f ( π ) =π −sinπ +5=π +5
2
∵ lim f (x )=f ( π )=π +5
x→π

∴ f (x) is continuous at x = π.

21. Discuss the continuity of the following functions:

( a ) f ( x ) =sinx +cosx ( b ) f ( x ) =sinx−cosx ( c ) f ( x )=sinx . cosx

Solution: We know that sinx∧cosx are continuous function for all real values of x.
( i ) Their sum function f ( x )=sinx+ cosx is also continuous for all real values of x
( ii ) Their difference function f ( x )=sinx−cosx is also continuous for all real values of x

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
( iii ) Their product function f ( x )=sinx . cosx is also continuous for all real values of x

22. Discuss the continuity of the cosine, cosecant, secant and cotangent functions.
Solution: Let f(x) = cos x
Let k be any real number. At k f(k) = cos k
L . H . L.= lim ¿ = lim f ( k −h )=lim cos ( k−h )
−¿
x → k f ( x) ¿ h→ 0 h→0

¿ lim [ coskcosh+ sinksinh ]

h→ 0
¿ cosk cos 0+ sinksin 0=cosk putting h = 0 limiting value
R . H . L .= lim ¿ = lim f ( k + h )=lim cos ( k + h )
+¿
x→ k f ( x ) ¿ h→ 0 h →0

¿ lim [ coskcosh−sinksinh ]
h→ 0
¿ cosk cos 0−sinksin 0=cosk putting h = 0 limiting value
Here, at x = k, L.H.L = R.H. L= f(k)
Hence, function f is continuous for all real numbers.
g
We know that if g∧h are two continuous function, then the function ,h≠0
h
1 0∧1
,h≠ , g ≠ 0 be continuous functions.
h g
1
Therefore , cosecx= , sinx ≠ 0 is continuous. ⇒ x ≠ nπ (n ∈ Z) is continuous.
sinx
Hence , cosecx is continuous except x=nπ (x ∈ Z )
1 ( 2 n+1 ) π
sec x= , cosx ≠ 0 is continuous.⇒ x ≠ (n ∈ Z ) is continuous
cos x 2
cos x
cot x= , sin x ≠ 0 is continuous . ⇒ x ≠ nπ (n ∈ Z) is continuous
sin x
Hence, cotx is continuous except x=nπ (x ∈ Z )

{
sinx
, if x <0
23. Find all points of discontinuity of f , where f ( x )= x
x +1 , if x ≥ 0
Solution: The domain of f = { x ∈ R : x< 0 } ∪ { x ∈ R : x ≥0 }=R
And x=0 is the partitioning point of the domain of the given function.
sinx
For all ¿ 0 , f ( x )= , since, sinx and x are continuous for all x <0, therefore f (x) is also
x
continuous for all x <0
For x >0 , f ( x )=x +1 is a polynomial function hence continuous for all x >0
Let us check the continuity at the partitioning point x = 0
f ( 0 )=0+1=1
L . H . L= lim ¿ lim sinh
−¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) =lim f ( 0 −h ) =lim
sin ⁡(0−h)
=lim
−sin ( h )
¿
= h→0 =1
h→0 0−h
h →0 −h h →0 h
R . H . L= lim ¿ lim ( 0+h ) +1=1
+¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) =lim f ( 0+ h) ¿ = h→ 0
h →0

lim ¿
Here, at x = 0 , −¿
x→ 0 f ( x ) =lim f ( x ) =f ( 0) =1 ¿
x→0

Hence, f is continuous at every point in its domain.

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
Therefore, it has no point of discontinuity.

{
2 1
x sin if x ≠ 0
24. Determine if f defined by f ( x )= x is continuous function?
0, if x=0
2 1
Solution: For all x ≠ 0 , f (x )=x sin being product of two continuous functions
x
1
x ( polynomialfunction) and sin ( a sine function) is continuous for all real x ≠ 0
2
x
Let us examine the continuity at x = 0.
2 1
lim f (x )=lim x sin = 0 × (A finite quantity between −1∧1)
x →0 x →0 x
=0
f ( 0 )=0
∴ lim f (x )=f ( 0 )=0 , Therefore, the function is continuous at x = 0 also.
x→ 0
Hence , f (x) is continuous on domain R of f .
25. Examine the continuity of f , where f is defined by f ( x )= {sinx−cosx
−1
, if x ≠ 0
if x =0

Solution: Given f ( x )= {
sinx−cosx , if x ≠ 0 …(i)
−1 if x=0 (ii )
From ( i ) f (x ) is defined for x ≠ 0 and from (ii) f (x) is defined for x=0
∴ Domain of f ( x ) is { x : x ≠ 0 } ∪ { x : x=0 }=R
¿ ( i ) x ≠ 0 f(x) = sinx−cosx is continuous function for x ≠ 0 as difference of two continuous
functions sinx∧cosx is continuous for x ≠ 0
Hence, f (x) is continuous on R−{0 }.
Now, let us check the continuity at x = 0
lim f (x )=lim sinx−cosx =sin 0−cos 0=−1
x →0 x →0
f ( 0 )=−1
∴ lim f (x )=f ( 0 )=0 , Therefore, the function is continuous at x = 0 also.
x→ 0
Hence , f (x) is continuous on domain R of f .
Find the values of k so that the function f is continuous at the indicated point in Exercises 26 to 29.

{
kcosx π
if x ≠
π −2 x 2 π
26. f ( x )= at x=
π 2
3 if x=
2
π π
Solution: Put x= −h , when x → , then h→ 0
2 2
π
kcos( −h)
∴ lim f (x )
x→
π
2 h→ 0
π
2(
= lim f −h = lim
h→ 0 ) 2
π
π−2( −h)
2

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
ksin(h) k sin(h) k lim sinx
= lim = lim = [∵
x→ 0
=1]
h→ 0 2h 2 h →0 h 2 x
f ( π2 )=3
π
Since f(x) is continuous at x =
2
∴ lim f (x )=f
x→
π
2
( π2 )
k
⇒ =3 , ⇒ k=6
2

{
2
k x , if x ≤2
27. f ( x )= at x = 2
3 , if x> 2
Solution: L.H.L= lim ¿ = lim ¿
−¿ −¿
x→ 2 k ( x )=4 k ¿
2
x→ 2 f ( x ) ¿
lim ¿
R.H.L= +¿
x→ 2 f ( x ) = lim +¿
¿¿
x→2 3=3 ¿

Since f(x) is continuous at x = 2, L.H.L.= R.H.L

⇒ 4 k =3
3
⇒ k=
4

28. f ( x )= {kxcos+1x ,,
if x ≤ π
if x > π
at x=π

Solution: L.H.L= lim ¿

−¿
x→ π f ( x ) ¿
¿ lim f (π −h) Putting x=π−h , when x → π , thenh → 0
h→ 0

= lim k ( π −h ) +1=kπ +1
h→ 0

R.H.L= lim ¿
+¿
x→ π f ( x ) ¿
¿ lim f (π + h) Putting x=π +h , when x → π ,then h →0
h→ 0
¿ lim cos ( π +h ) =−lim cosh =−1
h→ 0 h→0
Since f(x) is continuous at x = π
L.H.L.= R.H.L
−2
⇒ kπ +1 = −1, ⇒ k=
π

29. f ( x )= {3kxx−5
+1 ,
,
if x ≤ 5
if x >5
at x=5
lim ¿
Solution: L.H.L= −¿
x→ 5 f ( x ) = −¿
lim ¿¿
x →5 k ( x )+ 1=5k +1 ¿

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CONTINUITY Ch-5
lim ¿
R.H.L= +¿
x→ 5 f ( x )= +¿
lim ¿¿
x→5 3 x−5=10¿

Since f(x) is continuous at x = 5, L.H.L.= R.H.L

⇒ 5 k +1=10
9
⇒ k=
5
30. Find the values of a∧b such that the function defined by

{
5, if x ≤2
f ( x )= ax +b , if 2< x <10 is a continuous function.
21 , if x ≥10
Solution: At x = 2
lim ¿
L.H.L= x→ 2 f ( x )= lim ¿ ¿
−¿
−¿
x →2 5=5 ¿

lim ¿
R. H.S = +¿
x→ 2 f ( x ) = +¿
lim ¿¿
x→2 ax+ b=2a +b ¿

Since f(x) is continuous at x = 2 , L.H.L.= R.H.L

⇒ 2 a+ b=5 … (1)
Now, at x = 10
lim ¿
L. H.S = −¿
x→ 10 f ( x ) = −¿
lim ¿¿
x →10 ax+ b=10a +b ¿

lim ¿
R. H.S = +¿
x→ 10 f ( x ) = lim
+¿
¿¿
x →10 21=21¿

Since f(x) is continuous at x = 10 , L.H.L.= R.H.L

⇒ 10 a+ b=21… ( 2 )
Solving (1) and (2) we get
8 a=16∨a=2
Putting a = 2 in equation (1) we get
4 +b=5∨b=1
Answer a=2∧b=1
31. Show that the function defined by f(x) = cos ( x 2 ) is a continuous function.
Solution: Given f(x) = cos ( x 2) … (i)
f (x) has a real and finite value for all x ∈ R ,∴ Domain f ( x )=R
Let us take g ( x )=cosx and h ( x )=x 2
Now, g ( x )=cosx is cosine function is continuous for all ∈ R and h ( x )=x 2 being polynomial
function is continuous for all ∈ R
( goh ) x=gh ( x )=g ( x 2 )=cos(x ¿¿ 2)¿
¿ f (x) By (i) being composite function of two continuous function is
continuous in the domain R
32. Show that the function defined by f(x) = | cos x | is a continuous function.

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
Solution: Given f(x) = | cos x | … (i)
f (x) has a real and finite value for all x ∈ R ,∴ Domain f ( x )=R
Let us take g ( x )=cosx and h ( x )=|x|
Now, g ( x )=cosx is cosine function is continuous for all ∈ R and h ( x )=|x| being modulus
function is continuous for all ∈ R
( hog ) x=h [ g ( x ) ] =h ( cosx )=|cosx|
¿ f (x) By (i)
being composite function of two continuous function is continuous in the domain R

33. Examine that sin | x | is a continuous function.

Solution: Given sin | x |
Let us take f ( x )=sinx and g ( x )=|x|
Now, f ( x )=sinx is sine function is continuous for all ∈ R and g ( x )=|x| being modulus function
is continuous for all ∈ R
Now, ( fog )( x )=f [g ( x ) ]=f ¿
We know that composition of two continuous functions is continuous
∴ fog is continuous. Hence, sin|x| is continuous.

34. Find all the points of discontinuity of f defined by f(x) = | x | – | x + 1 |

Solution: Given f(x) = | x | – | x + 1 |
We know that every modulus function is continuous for all real values of x
Therefore, |x|∧|x+ 1| are continuous for all real x. We also know that difference of two
continuous function is continuous.
∴ f ( x )=|x|−|x +1|is also continuous for all real x

Hence, there is no point of discontinuity.

Extra questions.
Question 1. Find the values of p and q for which

{
3
1−sin x π
2
if x <
3 cos x 2
π π
f ( x )= p if x= is continuous at x= [CBSE2016]
2 2
q (1−sinx) π
2
if x >
( π −2 x ) 2

1
Answer p= ∧q=4
2

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5

{
sin ( a+1 ) x+ 2 sinx
x<0
x
Question 2. If f ( x )= 2 x=0 is continuous at x = 0,
√ 1+bx−1 x>0
x

then find values of ‘a’ and ’b’. [ CBSE 2016] Answer a =−1 , b = 4

Differentiability. Let a function f be differentiable at a point a then

f ( a−h )−f (a)
L.H.D = L f ' ( x )=lim and
h →0 −h
f ( a+h ) −f ( a)
RH.D = R f ' ( x )=lim
h→ 0 h
If L.H.D = R.H.D at a point a, then the function is differentiable at a point a .
Note: Every differentiable function is continuous but continuous function may not be
differentiable at a point a .
Example1: Show that the function f ( x )=| x−3|, x ∈ R is continuous but not differentiable at
x = 3. [CBSE 2013]

{
− ( x−3 ) , x <3
Solution: Here, f ( x )=| x−3|⇒ f ( x ) = 0 , x=3
( x−3 ) x >3

For Continuity:
lim ¿
Now −¿
x→ 3 f (x)= −¿
lim ¿¿ … (i)
x →3 − ( x−3) =0 ¿

lim ¿
+¿
x→ 3 f (x)= lim
+¿
¿¿ … (ii)
x→3 ( x−3)=0¿

f ( 3 )=0 … (iii)

From equation ( i ) , ( ii )∧(iii )

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 3 f (x)= +¿
lim ¿¿
x →3 f ( x)=f (3) =0 ¿

Hence, f (x) is continuous at x = 3

For Differentiability.
f ( 3−h )−f (3)
L.H.D = lim
h→ 0 −h

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
−( 3−h−3 )−(0) lim h
= lim = h → 0 =−1 … (iv)
h→ 0 −h −h
f ( 3+h )−f (3)
R.H.D = lim
h→ 0 h

( 3+ h−3 ) −(0) lim h

= lim = h → 0 =1 … (v)
h→ 0 h h
From equation (iv) and (v)
L.H.D ≠ R . H . D at x = 3
Hence, f(x) is not differentiable at x= 3
Therefore, is continuous but not differentiable at x = 3.
Example2. Discuss the continuity and differentiability of the function
f ( x )=| x|+|x−1| in the interval (−1 , 2) [CBSE 2015]
Solution: Put x=0 ,∧x−1=0 ⇒ x=0 , x=1

{
−2 x +1 , if −1< x< 0
f ( x )=¿ 1 , if 0< x ←1
2 x−1 if x ≥ 1

We, need to discuss the continuity and differentiability at x=0 ,∧x=1.

For Continuity:
At x = 0
lim ¿
Now −¿
x→ 0 f (x)= −¿
lim ¿¿ … (i)
x →0 −2 x+1=1 ¿

lim ¿
+¿
x→ 0 f (x)= lim ¿¿ … (ii)
+¿
x→0 1=1 ¿

f ( 0 )=1 … (iii)

From equation ( i ) , ( ii )∧(iii )

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

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

For Differentiability.
f ( 0−h )−f (0)
L.H.D = lim
h→ 0 −h

−2 ( 0−h ) +1−1 lim 2 h

= lim = h → 0 =−2 … (iv)
h→ 0 −h −h

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
f ( 0+h ) −f (0)
R.H.D = lim
h→ 0 h

1−1 lim 0
= lim = h → 0 =0 … (v)
h→ 0 h h
From equation (iv) and (v)
L.H.D ≠ R . H . D at x = 0
Hence, f(x) is not differentiable at x = 0
At x = 1
For Continuity:
lim ¿
Now −¿
x→ 1 f (x)= lim −¿
¿¿ … (i)
x →1 1=1 ¿

lim ¿
+¿
x→ 1 f (x)= lim
+¿
¿¿ … (ii)
x →1 2 (1)−1=1¿

f ( 1 ) =2 ( 1 ) −1=1 … (iii)

From equation ( i ) , ( ii )∧(iii )

lim ¿
−¿
x→ 1 f (x)= +¿
lim ¿¿
x →1 f ( x)=f (1)=1¿

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

For Differentiability.
f (1−h ) −f (1)
L.H.D = lim
h→ 0 −h

1−(2−1) lim 1−1

= lim = h→0 =0 … (iv)
h→ 0 −h −h
f (1+ h )−f (1)
R.H.D = lim
h→ 0 h

2 ( 1+h ) −1−(1) lim 2h

= lim = h → 0 =2 … (v)
h→ 0 h h
From equation (iv) and (v)
L.H.D ≠ R . H . D at x = 1
Hence, f(x) is not differentiable at x= 1
Hence, f(x) is continuous at x = 0, 1 but not differentiable at x = 0, 1.

{
2
a x + b if x <1
Example 3. Find ‘a’ and ‘b’ if the function given by f(x) =
2 x +1 if x ≥ 1

20
 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
is differentiable at x = 1. [CBSE Sample Paper 2018]
Solution: Since, f is differentiable at x = 1 ⇒ f is also continuous at x = 1
lim ¿
Now, −¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) =¿ lim ¿ ¿¿
−¿ 2
x→1 a( x ) + b=¿a+ b ¿¿

lim ¿
+¿
x→ 1 f ( x ) = +¿
lim ¿¿
x→1 2 ( x )+ 1=2+ 1=3¿

Since f (x) is continuous at x = 1

⇒ a+b=3 …(i)
Again f (x) is differentiable at x = 1
'
⇒ L f ( 1 )=Rf ' (1)
f ( 1−h )−f (1) ( 1+h )−f (1)
⇒ lim = lim
h →0 −h h→ 0 h

a ( 1−h )2 +b−(2+ 1) 2 ( 1+h ) +1−(3)

⇒ lim = lim
h →0 −h h→ 0 h
2
−2 ah+ a h +a+ b−(3) lim 2 h
⇒ lim =
h →0 −h h→ 0 h

2
−2 ah+ a h +3−(3)
⇒ lim =2 [ ∵ a+b=3 ¿(i)]
h →0 −h
−h(2 a+ ah)
⇒ lim =2
h →0 −h
(2 a+ ah)
⇒ lim =2
h →0 1
⇒ 2 a=2, ⇒ a=1
Putting a=1∈equation ( i ) we get b = 2
Overview.
Continuity of a function at a point.
Let f be a real function on a subset of the real numbers and let c be a point in the domain of f.
Then f is continuous at c if lim f (x )=f (c ) x →c

More elaborately, if the left hand limit, right hand limit and the value of the function at x = c exist
and are equal to each other,
lim ¿
i.e., −¿
x→ c f (x)=f (c)= lim +¿
¿¿ then f is said to be continuous at x = c.
x→ c f ( x)¿

Continuity in an interval.

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
(i) f is said to be continuous in an open interval (a, b) if it is continuous at every point in this
interval.
(ii) f is said to be continuous in the closed interval [a, b] if
 f is continuous in (a, b)
 lim ¿
+¿
x→ a f (x)=f (a )¿

 lim ¿
−¿
x→ b f (x)=f (b)¿
Geometrical meaning of continuity.
(i) Function f will be continuous at x = c if there is no break in the graph of the function at the point
(c , f ( c ) )
(ii) In an interval, function is said to be continuous if there is no break in the graph of the function in
the entire interval
Discontinuity.
The function f will be discontinuous at x = a in any of the following cases:

(i) lim ¿ and lim ¿ exists and are not equal.

−¿ +¿
x→ a f (x)¿ x→ a f (x)¿

(ii) lim ¿ and lim ¿ exists and are equal but not equal to f(a).
−¿ +¿
x→ a f (x)¿ x→ a f (x)¿

(iii) f (a) is not defined.

Continuity of some of the common functions.
Function f(x) Interval in which f is continuous
1. The constant function f(x) = c R
2. The identity function R
3. The polynomial function R
4. |x−a| (−∞, ∞)
5. n
x where x is a positive integer (−∞ , ∞ )−{0 }
p (x) R−{x : q ( x )=0 }
6. where p(x) and q(x) are
q(x )
polynomials in x and q ( x ) ≠ 0
7. sinx , cosx R
8. tanx secx π
R−{( 2 n+1 ) : n∈ Z }
2
9. cotx ,cosecx R−{ ( nπ : n∈ Z ) }
10. e x R
11. logx (0 , ∞ )
12. The inverse trigonometric functions In their respective domain

Differentiability. Let a function f be differentiable at a point a then

f ( a−h )−f (a)
L.H.D = L f ' ( x )=lim and
h →0 −h
f ( a+h ) −f (a)
RH.D = R f ' ( x )=lim
h→ 0 h

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
If L.H.D = R.H.D at a point a, then the function is differentiable at a point a .
Note: Every differentiable function is continuous but continuous function may not be
differentiable at a point a .
The following rules were established as a part of algebra of derivatives:
d du dv
(1) ( u ± v )= ±
dx dx dx
d du dv
(2) ( uv )=v +u (product rule)
dx dx dx
du dv
−u v
(3) d u
dx v
= ()
dx
v
2
dx (Quotient rule)

d d
(4) k f ( x )=k f ( x )
dx dx
Theorem 4 (Chain Rule) Let f be a real valued function which is a composite of two functions u
dt dv df dv dt
and v; i.e., f = v o u. Suppose t = u(x) and if both and exist, we have = .
dx dt dx dt dx

Example 23 Differentiate sin (cos ( x2 ) ) with respect to x.

Solution Let y = sin (cos ( x2 ) )

dy dsin ( cos ( x ) ) dCos ( x ) d (x )

2 2 2
= 2 2
dx dCos(x ) dx dx

= cos ( cos ( x 2 ) ) (−sin x 2)(2 x) = −2 x sin x 2 cos ⁡(cos ( x 2 ))

EXERCISE 5.2
Differentiate the functions with respect to x in Exercises 1 to 8
2
1. sin ⁡( x +5)

Solution: Let y = sin ⁡(x 2+5)

dy d
= sin ( x +5 )
2
∴
dx dx

d ( sin x 2 +5 )
¿
d¿¿

2. cos ⁡(sinx)
Solution: let y = cos ⁡(sinx)

dy
=¿
dx

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
= −sin ( sinx ) . cosx
3. sin ⁡(ax +b)
Solution: let y = sin ⁡(ax +b)

dy d d
= [ sin(ax +b) ] =[ cos( ax+ b) ] ( ax +b )
dx dx dx
= cos ( ax+ b ) . ( a+0 ) =acos (ax +b)

4. sec ⁡(tan ( √ x ) )

Solution: let y = sec ⁡(tan ( √ x ) )

dy d
= [ sec ( tan ( √ x ) ) ]
dx dx
¿¿
= tan ⁡¿
1
= sec ⁡( tan √ x ) tan ⁡¿
2 √x

sin ⁡(ax+ b)
5.
cos ⁡(cx +d )
sin ⁡(ax+ b)
Solution: let y =
cos ⁡(cx +d )

[
dy d sin ( ax+ b )
=
dx dx cos ( cx +d ) ]
[ ]
d d du dv
cos ( cx +d ) sin ( ax +b )−sin ( ax +b ) cos ⁡(cx + d) v−u
¿
dx
2
cos (cx +d )
dx
∵ ()
d u
dx v
=
dx
v
2
dx

acos ( ax+ b ) cos ( cx +d ) +csin ( ax +b ) cos ⁡(cx+ d)

= 2
cos (cx+ d)

3 2 5
6. cos x . sin ( x )
Solution: let y = cos x 3 . sin2 (x 5)

dy
=[ cos x .sin ( x ) ]
3 2 5
dx
¿ cos x
3 d
dx
3
( sin2 x 5 )+ sin2 x 5 d ¿
dx [ ∵
d
dx
dv
( uv ) =u +v
dx
du
dx ]
= cos x ¿

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
d 5
= cos x ( 2 sin x ) ( cos x ) ( x )−sin 2 x 5 sin x 3 ( 3 x 2)
3 5 5
dx
= cos x ( 2 sin x ) ( cos x ) ( 5 x 4 ) −sin2 x 5 sin x 3 ( 3 x 2 )
3 5 5

= 10 x 4 cos x 3 sin x 5 cos x 5−3 x 2 sin2 x 5 sin x 3

= x 2 sin x 5 [10 x 2 cos x 3 cos x 5−3 sin x5 sin x 3 ]
7. 2 √ cot ⁡(x2 )

Solution: let y =2 √ cot ⁡(x2 )

dy d
dx dx √
= ¿2 cot ⁡(x2 ) )

1 d 2 d 1
=2× (cot x ) [∵ √ x= ]
2 √ cot x d 2
dx 2 √x
1
= (−cose c2 x 2) d ( x 2 ) [∵
d 2
cotx=−cose c x]
√ cot x 2 dx dx
2 2
−2 xcose c x
=
√ cot x 2
8. cos ¿ ¿
Solution: let y = cos ¿ ¿

dy d d
= cos ¿ ¿ = −sin √ x √x
dx dx dx
−1 d 1
= sin √ x [∵ √ x= ]
2 √x dx 2 √x

9. Prove that the function f given by |x−1|, x ∈ R is not differentiable at x = 1

Solution:
f ( 1−h )−f (1)
L.H.D = L f ' ( 1 )=lim
h →0 −h
|1−h−1|−|1−1| h−0
= lim =lim =lim −1=−1
h→ 0 −h h → 0 −h h→ 0

f ( 1+ h )−f (1)
RH.D = R f ' ( 1 )=lim
h →0 h
|1+ h−1|−|1−1| h−0
= = lim =lim =lim 1=1
h→ 0 h h →0 h h→0

' '
∵ L f ( 1 ) ≠ R f (1 )
Hence, f ( x )=| x−1|, , x ∈ R is not differentiable at x = 1

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5

10. Prove that the greatest integer function defined by f ( x )= [ x ] ,0 < x< 3 is not differentiable at x
= 1 and x = 2
Solution:
Given f ( x )= [ x ] ,0 < x< 3
Differentiability at x = 1
f ( 1 ) =[ 1 ] =1
f ( 1−h )−f (1)
L.H.D = L f ' ( 1 )=lim
h →0 −h
[ 1−h ] −1 0−1
= lim =lim =∞
h→ 0 −h h → 0 −h
'
∴ L f ( 1 ) does not exists.
Hence, f ( x ) is not differentiable at x = 1
Differentiability at x = 2
f ( 1 ) =[ 2 ] =2
f ( 2−h )−f (1)
L.H.D = L f ' ( 2 )=lim
h →0 −h
[ 2−h ] −1 1−2 −1
= lim =lim =lim =∞
h→ 0 −h h → 0 −h h →0 −h
'
∴ L f ( 2 ) does not exists.
Hence, f ( x ) is not differentiable at x= 2

Derivatives of implicit functions:

dy
Example 25. Find , if y + sin y = cos x
dx
Solution: We differentiate the relationship directly with respect to x, i.e.,
dy d d
+ ( siny )= ( cosx )
dx dx dx
which implies using chain rule
dy dy
+ cosy =−sinx
dx dx
dy
Or ( 1+cosy ) =−sinxx
dx
dy −sinx
Which gives = where y ≠ (2 n+1 ) π
dx 1+ cosy

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 Abdullah Rahman sir
CONTINUITY Ch-5
Derivatives of inverse trigonometric functions.
Note: The derivative of inverse Trigonometric function exists in their domain, i.e., region where
they are continuous.

−1 −1 −1 −1 −1 −1
f (x) sin x cos x tan x cot x cosec x sec x
'
f ( x) 1 −1 1 −1 −1 1
√1−x 2 √1−x 2 1+ x
2
1+ x
2
x √ x 2−1 x √ x 2−1
Domain of ¿ (−1 , 1) R R (−∞, 1)∪(1 , ∞) (−∞, 1)∪(1 , ∞)
'
f ( x)

EXERCISE 5.3
dy
Find in the following:
dx
1.
Solution:
2.
Solution:
3.
Solution:
4.
Solution:
5.
Solution:
6.
Solution:
7.
Solution:
8.
Solution:
9.
Solution:
10.
Solution:
11.
Solution:
12.
Solution:
13.
Solution:
14.
Solution:
15.
Solution:

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