Testing Limits: Can False Statements Exist?

In summary, the given conditions state that if the limit of a function f(x) as x approaches c is equal to f(c) for all values of c between 0 and 5, and f(0) is not equal to f(5), then which of the following statements could be false? The correct answer is B, as f'(1) may not exist even if f(1) exists due to the given conditions.
  • #1
Anonymous217
355
2

Homework Statement


If [tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow c} f(x) = f(c)[/tex] for all values of c, 0<or= c <or=5, and f(0)[tex]\neq[/tex]f(5), which of the following could be false?
A. f(4) exists

B. f'(1) exists

C. [tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow2^+} f(x)[/tex] exists

D. [tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow3} f(x) = \lim_{x\rightarrow3^+} f(x)[/tex]

E. [tex]\lim_{x\rightarrow0^+} f(x) \neq \lim_{x\rightarrow5} f(x)[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried process of elimination, but they all seemed true.
A. f(4) exists simply by the first condition.
B. f'(1) should exist because the limit for f(1) exists.
C. this should exist if limit of x to 2 f(x) exists.
D. If the limit on both sides exist, it should be equal to the right side or the left side as well.
E. limit of 0 from the right side = limit of 0 from both sides, which is = f(0); the other part is = f(5), so this statement should be true.

Clearly I've made a mistake in my logic somewhere.. :(EDIT: Oh, wait, could it be B? If you do a cusp at x=1, then the f(1) exists, but f'(1) doesn't.
 
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  • #2
It looks to me B. Because, eventhough f, with the given properties/conditions, is continuous at 1, remember that continuity does not imply differentiability(while the converse is true).
 
  • #3
Anonymous217 said:


EDIT: Oh, wait, could it be B? If you do a cusp at x=1, then the f(1) exists, but f'(1) doesn't.


You got it right! For instance, [tex]f(x)={\frac {\sqrt { \left| x \right| }}{{x}^{2}+1}[/tex] vanishes at x=0; while its derivative [tex]1/2\,{\frac { \left| 1 \right| }{\sqrt { \left| x \right| } \left( {x}^{2}+1 \right) }}-2\,{\frac {\sqrt { \left| x \right| }x}{ \left( {x}^{2}+1 \right) ^{2}}}[/tex] is not defined at the same point.

AB
 
  • #4
Thanks for the confirmation guys.
 

Related to Testing Limits: Can False Statements Exist?

1. What is the purpose of testing limits in science?

The purpose of testing limits in science is to push the boundaries of our current understanding and knowledge. By testing limits, we can challenge existing theories and ideas, and potentially discover new information and insights.

2. How do scientists determine if a statement is false?

Scientists use the scientific method to determine the validity of a statement. This involves making observations, formulating a hypothesis, conducting experiments, and analyzing the results. If the results do not support the hypothesis, the statement may be considered false.

3. Can false statements exist in science?

Yes, false statements can exist in science. This is because science is an ongoing process of discovery and refinement, and our understanding of the world is constantly evolving. What may be considered true today may be proven false in the future with new evidence and research.

4. How do false statements affect the progress of scientific research?

False statements can hinder the progress of scientific research by leading scientists down the wrong path and wasting time and resources. However, they can also be beneficial by prompting researchers to question and re-evaluate existing theories, leading to new discoveries and advancements.

5. How can scientists avoid making false statements?

To avoid making false statements, scientists must adhere to the rigorous standards of the scientific method. This includes conducting thorough research and experiments, acknowledging any limitations or uncertainties, and subjecting their findings to peer review and replication.

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