Chapter 2: Problem 7
Suppose \(p\) and \(q\) are polynomials. If \(\lim _{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{p(x)}{q(x)}=10\) and \(q(0)=2,\) find \(p(0)\).
Short Answer
Expert verified
Answer: $p(0) = 20$.
Step by step solution
01
Apply the limit definition
According to the problem, we have \(\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{p(x)}{q(x)} = 10\). Since the limit is finite and non-zero, we can apply the limit definition and break it down as follows:
\(\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{p(x)}{q(x)} = \frac{\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} p(x)}{\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} q(x)} = 10\)
02
Substitute the given information
We are given that \(q(0) = 2\). Thus, we can substitute this value in the limit formula:
\(\frac{\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} p(x)}{2} = 10\)
Now, we know that the value of \(\lim_{x \rightarrow 0} p(x)\) is nothing but \(p(0)\). So, we substitute this value in the formula:
03
Solve for \(p(0)\)
Now that we have the appropriate equation, we solve for \(p(0)\):
\(\frac{p(0)}{2} = 10\)
Multiply both sides by 2:
\(p(0) = 20\)
Hence, we have determined that \(p(0) = 20\).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Polynomial Division
Polynomial division is a mathematical process used to divide one polynomial by another. It is similar to long division with numbers. You break down a polynomial into simpler components via a method known as polynomial division or synthetic division.
- Polynomials are expressions consisting of variables and coefficients combined using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and non-negative integer exponents.
- Common polynomial division involves dividing a polynomial dividend by a polynomial divisor.
- This method helps simplify expressions and solve polynomial equations.
Limits and Continuity
Limits are fundamental in calculus and help us understand how functions behave as they approach a specific point. The idea of limits is crucial in defining derivatives and integrals.
- A limit describes the value that a function approaches as the input approaches some point.
- Limits are essential for determining the behavior of functions at points where they might not be directly defined.
- Continuity means a function is smooth without breaks, jumps, or holes in its graph.
Problem Solving in Calculus
Problem-solving in calculus involves applying different mathematical concepts and techniques to find solutions. It requires breaking down complex problems into simpler parts.
- Identifying given information and what needs to be found is crucial in setting a clear path to a solution.
- Using limit properties aids in simplifying expressions and evaluating them at specific points.
- Effective problem-solving often requires leveraging calculus rules like the limit of a quotient which is the quotient of the limits.