Chapter 1: Problem 32
Find the limits. $$\lim _{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{\sin ^{2}(k x)}{x}, \quad k \neq 0$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The limit is 0.
Step by step solution
01
Recognize Indeterminate Form
First, recognize that as \(x\) approaches 0, the expression \(\frac{\sin^2(kx)}{x}\) is in the indeterminate form \(\frac{0}{0}\). Therefore, we need to apply some method to simplify and evaluate the limit.
02
Apply Limit Substitution
Consider using the fact that \(\lim_{y \to 0} \frac{\sin y}{y} = 1\). For our problem, let \(y = kx\), then as \(x\) approaches 0, \(y\) also approaches 0.
03
Algebraic Manipulation
Rewrite the expression using the substitution: \(\frac{\sin^2(kx)}{x} = \frac{\sin(kx) \cdot \sin(kx)}{x} = \frac{\sin(kx)}{kx} \cdot k \cdot \sin(kx)\).
04
Apply Limit Fact
Using the limit fact \(\lim_{y \to 0} \frac{\sin y}{y} = 1\), we substitute \(y = kx\) to get \(\lim_{x \to 0} \frac{\sin(kx)}{kx} = 1\). Therefore, the expression becomes \(k \cdot \lim_{x \to 0} \sin(kx) \cdot 1 = k \cdot 0 = 0\).
05
Final Limit Evaluation
Conclude that the entire expression equals 0 due to the multiplication by sin(kx), which approaches 0 as \(x\) approaches 0. Thus, the limit \(\lim _{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{\sin ^{2}(k x)}{x} = 0.\)Therefore, the limit of the original expression as \(x\) approaches 0 is 0.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Indeterminate Forms
In calculus, limits can sometimes lead to indeterminate forms, such as \(\frac{0}{0}\), \(\frac{\infty}{\infty}\), or \(0 \cdot \infty\). These forms occur when direct substitution in the limit results in undefined expressions.
Understanding indeterminate forms is crucial as they indicate that a more strategic approach is needed to evaluate the limit.
For example, in the problem \(\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{\sin^2(kx)}{x}\), both the numerator and the denominator approach zero as \(x\) approaches zero.
This results in the indeterminate form \(\frac{0}{0}\), prompting the use of algebraic manipulation or limit theorems to resolve the expression and find a definitive limit.
Understanding indeterminate forms is crucial as they indicate that a more strategic approach is needed to evaluate the limit.
For example, in the problem \(\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{\sin^2(kx)}{x}\), both the numerator and the denominator approach zero as \(x\) approaches zero.
This results in the indeterminate form \(\frac{0}{0}\), prompting the use of algebraic manipulation or limit theorems to resolve the expression and find a definitive limit.
Limit Substitution
Limit substitution is a powerful technique used to simplify complicated-looking limits. This involves substituting a part of the original expression with a simpler variable.
In our example problem, the substitution \(y = kx\) can be used.
As \(x\) approaches 0, the variable \(y\) also approaches 0, transforming the limit problem into a simpler one.
This switch allows us to apply known limit results, such as \(\lim_{y \to 0} \frac{\sin y}{y} = 1\), making the evaluation easier.
In our example problem, the substitution \(y = kx\) can be used.
As \(x\) approaches 0, the variable \(y\) also approaches 0, transforming the limit problem into a simpler one.
This switch allows us to apply known limit results, such as \(\lim_{y \to 0} \frac{\sin y}{y} = 1\), making the evaluation easier.
- Reduces complexity by breaking down functions into simpler parts
- Enhances understanding by substituting with familiar forms
- Essential for tackling indeterminate forms effectively
Sine Function Limits
The sine function has specific properties that are useful in solving limits, particularly the standard result \(\lim_{x \to 0} \frac{\sin x}{x} = 1\).
This property is very handy, especially when dealing with limits involving trigonometric functions.
In the original exercise, the expression required adjusting into a form where this property applies.
By making a substitution and then recognizing the standard form \(\frac{\sin(kx)}{kx}\), the complex limit transformed into a simple multiplication problem.
This property is very handy, especially when dealing with limits involving trigonometric functions.
In the original exercise, the expression required adjusting into a form where this property applies.
By making a substitution and then recognizing the standard form \(\frac{\sin(kx)}{kx}\), the complex limit transformed into a simple multiplication problem.
- It serves as a foundation for solving many similar trigonometric limits.
- Facilitates simplification of complex expressions by aligning with basic sine limits.
- Enables effective resolution of indeterminate forms by recognizing standard patterns.