Guide to Limits in Calculus | MCV4U & IB SL
Guide to Limits in Calculus
Comprehensive guide to Limits in Calculus, designed for students in the MCV4U course.
1. Introduction to Limits
A limit describes the value that a function f(x)
approaches as the input x
approaches a particular value. Limits are crucial for understanding continuity, derivatives, and integrals in calculus.
Notation:
\[
\lim_{x \to c} f(x) = L
\]
This means as \(x\) approaches \(c\), \(f(x)\) approaches \(L\).
2. Types of Limits
a) Finite Limits at Finite Points
If \(f(x)\) approaches a specific value \(L\) as \(x \to c\), the limit exists.
Example:
\[
\lim_{x \to 2} (3x + 1) = 7
\]
Solution: Substitute \(x = 2\):
\[
f(2) = 3(2) + 1 = 7
\]
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