Evaluating limits with constant?

In summary, the problem is asking if there exists a number b for which the limit of (3x^2+bx+b+3)/(x^2+x-2) as x approaches -2 exists. The solution involves setting the denominator equal to 0 and solving for b, which results in b = 15. However, upon factoring the numerator, it becomes (3x+18)(x+1) and does not cancel out with anything on the bottom. The correct factorization is (3x+9)(x+2), which results in a limit of -1.
  • #1
shocklightnin
32
0

Homework Statement


Is there such a number b such that lim x->-2 (3x^2+bx+b+3)/(x^2+x-2) exists? If so, find b and the limit.

Homework Equations


lim x->-2 (3x^2+bx+b+3)/(x^2+x-2)

The Attempt at a Solution


for the denominator we have zeroes at x = 1 and -2. so we need to get rid of the -2 part right? set up (3x^2+bx+b+3)=0 and solve for b to get b = -3-3x^2/(x+1) which has b = 15 (which is what the answer book has). but if b = 15, the numerator just becomes 3x^2+15x+18 when factored go to (3x+18)(x+1) which doesn't cancel out with anything on the bottom. they also say that the limit is -1 but how??

EDIT::
neeeeeevermind. got the factoring mixed up. limit is -1.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You factored 3x^2+15x+18 wrong. Try that again.
 

Related to Evaluating limits with constant?

1. What is a "constant" when evaluating limits?

A constant is a fixed value that does not change as the independent variable approaches a certain value. In the context of evaluating limits, a constant can be thought of as a number that remains the same regardless of the value of the input variable.

2. How does a constant affect the limit of a function?

A constant does not affect the limit of a function. It is simply a fixed value that can be factored out of the limit expression without changing the final result. This is because a constant is not affected by the value of the input variable.

3. Can a constant be factored out of a limit expression?

Yes, a constant can be factored out of a limit expression. This is because, as mentioned before, a constant does not affect the limit of a function and can be treated as a separate entity in the expression.

4. Are there any special rules for evaluating limits with constants?

No, there are no special rules for evaluating limits with constants. The same rules and techniques apply as with evaluating any other type of limit. However, it is important to remember to factor out the constant if it is present in the limit expression.

5. Can a function have a limit at a certain point if it contains a constant?

Yes, a function can have a limit at a certain point even if it contains a constant. As long as the constant is not in the denominator of the function, it will not affect the limit. The limit will depend on the behavior of the rest of the function as the input variable approaches the given point.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
944
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
31
Views
3K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
24
Views
2K
Back
Top