Chapter 1: Problem 30
Find the value of the constant \(k\) such that. $$\lim _{x \rightarrow 2} \frac{(x+6)(x-k)}{x^{2}+x}=4$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The value of \(k\) is \(-1\).
Step by step solution
01
Set up the Limit Equation
Given the limit problem, we want to find the value of the constant \(k\) so that: \[ \lim _{x \rightarrow 2} \frac{(x+6)(x-k)}{x^{2}+x} = 4 \] Begin by recognizing that we'll substitute \(x = 2\) to solve for \(k\).
02
Simplify the Limit Expression
Substitute \(x = 2\) into the denominator, \(x^2 + x\): \(2^2 + 2 = 6\). Since we want the limit to equal 4, solve: \[\frac{(2+6)(2-k)}{6} = 4\].
03
Solve the Equation for k
Solve the equation \(\frac{8(2-k)}{6} = 4\). Multiply both sides by 6: \(8(2-k) = 24\).
04
Isolate and Solve for k
Divide both sides by 8: \(2-k = 3\). Solve for \(k\) by subtracting 2 from both sides: \(-k = 1\). Finally, multiply by -1: \(k = -1\).
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Finding Constants
In calculus, finding the value of an unknown constant in a limit problem is a common task. To find the constant, follow these steps:
- Understand the limit problem setup. You're usually asked to find a value that makes the limit of a function as it approaches a certain point equal to a given number.
- Substitute a specific value for the variable in the equation. This helps form an equation that usually involves the unknown constant.
- Solve the equation. Manipulate it to isolate the constant and find its value.
Evaluating Limits
Evaluating limits is a crucial concept in calculus that helps determine what value a function approaches as the variable approaches a certain point. Here's how you can approach evaluating limits:
- Direct substitution: The most straightforward method, where you substitute the approaching value into the function if it doesn't cause any issues like division by zero.
- Simplification: If direct substitution fails (e.g., leads to 0/0), simplify the expression by factoring or canceling common terms.
- Check your work: After evaluating the limit, always ensure the calculated value matches the expected result specified in the problem.
Rational Functions
Understanding rational functions is vital for solving calculus problems involving limits. A rational function is a fraction where both the numerator and denominator are polynomials.
- Key characteristics include the degree of the polynomials and the values where the denominator becomes zero, known as zeros or singularities.
- When evaluating limits, ensure the denominator does not lead to division by zero, which would require simplification or additional techniques like L'Hopital's rule.
- Rational functions can often be simplified by factoring, which helps in canceling out terms that complicate the limit evaluation.