Is x^(2/3)(5/2-x) a Continuous Function for All Values of x?

In summary, the function $$x^\frac{2}{3} (\frac{5}{2} - x)$$ is continuous for all values of x except at x=0, where it is continuous but not differentiable due to a cusp. This is because the product of two continuous functions is also continuous, and both $x^{2/3}$ and $5/2-x$ are continuous. To determine the continuity of a function, it is best to first identify the algebraic components and then try to break the function down into pieces.
  • #1
tmt1
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Is $$x^\frac{2}{3} (\frac{5}{2} - x)$$ a continuous function for all values of x?

It seems disjointed at $x = 0$ but the limit as x approaches 0 is 0 from both sides of x.
 
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  • #2
tmt said:
Is $$x^\frac{2}{3} (\frac{5}{2} - x)$$ a continuous function for all values of x?

It seems disjointed at $x = 0$ but the limit as x approaches 0 is 0 from both sides of x.

Product of two continuous functions is continuous. Both $x^{2/3}$ and $5/2-x$ are continuous, and thus $x^{2/3}(5/2-x)$ is also continuous.

In general, when face with the problem of figuring out whether or not a certain function is continuous, one should use the first principles only as a last resort. One should try to break down the problem into pieces by identifying the algebraic components of the function, that is seeing if the function is sum or product of ratio of two continuous functions. Then one should try to see if the function can be written as a composite of two continuous functions, etc.
 
  • #3
There is a cusp at x= 0. The function is continuous at x= 0 but not differentiable there.
 

Related to Is x^(2/3)(5/2-x) a Continuous Function for All Values of x?

1. What is continuity of a function?

Continuity of a function refers to the property of a function where the output values change gradually as the input values change. In other words, there are no sudden jumps or breaks in the graph of the function.

2. How is continuity different from differentiability?

Continuity and differentiability are related but different concepts. Continuity of a function means that the function is uninterrupted and has no breaks or gaps, while differentiability means that the function has a well-defined derivative at every point. A function can be continuous but not differentiable, and vice versa.

3. What are the three types of discontinuities in a function?

The three types of discontinuities are:
1. Removable discontinuity - where a function has a hole in its graph at a certain point.
2. Jump discontinuity - where the function makes a sudden jump in its value at a certain point.
3. Infinite discontinuity - where the function approaches infinity at a certain point.

4. How do you test for continuity of a function?

A function is continuous if the limit of the function at a given point is equal to the value of the function at that point. This can be tested by evaluating the left-hand and right-hand limits at the point and seeing if they are equal. If they are, then the function is continuous at that point.

5. Can a function be continuous at only one point?

No, a function cannot be continuous at only one point. In order for a function to be continuous at a point, it must be continuous at all points in its domain. Otherwise, it is considered discontinuous at that point.

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