Does Taylor Series accurately represent limits in calculus?

In summary, a Taylor series is a mathematical representation of a function as an infinite sum of terms, used to approximate the behavior of a function near a specific point. It can be used to evaluate limits by substituting the limit value into the series and taking the limit as the number of terms approaches infinity. A Maclaurin series is a special case of a Taylor series, centered at x=0. Taylor series have many applications in mathematics and science, such as solving complex functions and differential equations. However, they can only be used to evaluate limits for functions that are continuous and differentiable at the point of evaluation.
  • #1
ironman
17
0

Homework Statement


[/B]
lim x -> 0
CodeCogsEqn.gif


2. Homework Equations

Taylor series for sin cos e and ln ()

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried expanding the sine to 3-degree, and everything else 2-degree. I ended up with this:

CodeCogsEqn-2.gif

Now the problem is that WolframAlpha says it should be -6/25. Now if only that -2 were +2...
 
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  • #2
I got the answer! the first 1/2 (expansion from e^3x) is supposed to be 4 1/2 not 1/2, because you get (3x)^2 / 2! not (x)^2/2!
 

Related to Does Taylor Series accurately represent limits in calculus?

1. What is a Taylor series?

A Taylor series is a mathematical representation of a function as an infinite sum of terms that are calculated from the values of that function's derivatives at a single point. It is used to approximate the behavior of a function near a specific point.

2. How are Taylor series used to evaluate limits?

Taylor series can be used to evaluate limits by substituting the limit value into the series and then taking the limit as the number of terms approaches infinity. This allows for the approximation of the value of a function at a specific point, even if the function itself is not defined at that point.

3. What is the difference between a Taylor series and a Maclaurin series?

A Taylor series is a representation of a function at a specific point, while a Maclaurin series is a special case of a Taylor series where the point is at x=0. In other words, a Maclaurin series is a Taylor series centered at 0.

4. What are the applications of using Taylor series to evaluate limits?

Taylor series can be used in many areas of mathematics and science, including calculus, physics, and engineering. They are particularly useful in approximating complex functions and solving differential equations.

5. Can Taylor series be used to evaluate all limits?

No, Taylor series can only be used to evaluate limits for functions that are continuous and differentiable at the point of evaluation. If a function is not continuous or differentiable at a specific point, then Taylor series cannot be used to evaluate its limit at that point.

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