Chapter 12: Problem 22
Use a graphing device to determine whether the limit exists. If the limit exists, estimate its value to two decimal places. $$\lim _{x \rightarrow 0} \frac{1}{1+e^{1 / x}}$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The limit does not exist.
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Limit Problem
We are asked to find the limit as \( x \) approaches 0 for the function \( \frac{1}{1+e^{1/x}} \). To solve this, we need to consider the behavior of the function as \( x \) approaches 0 from both the left (negative values of \( x \)) and the right (positive values of \( x \)).
02
Analyze the Function Behavior as x Approaches 0 from the Left
As \( x \to 0^- \), the exponent \( \frac{1}{x} \to -\infty \), making \( e^{1/x} \to 0 \). Therefore, the expression \( 1 + e^{1/x} \) approaches 1, and hence \( \frac{1}{1+e^{1/x}} \to 1 \).
03
Analyze the Function Behavior as x Approaches 0 from the Right
As \( x \to 0^+ \), the exponent \( \frac{1}{x} \to +\infty \), making \( e^{1/x} \to \infty \). Therefore, \( 1 + e^{1/x} \) approaches infinity, and the fraction \( \frac{1}{1+e^{1/x}} \to 0 \).
04
Conclude Whether the Limit Exists
Since the left-hand limit (as \( x \) approaches 0 from the left) equals 1, and the right-hand limit (as \( x \) approaches 0 from the right) equals 0, these two values are not equal. Therefore, the limit does not exist.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Graphical Analysis
In calculus, graphical analysis is a key tool that helps in understanding the behavior of functions visually. By plotting a function, one can observe how it behaves as it approaches certain values. It offers a visual insight into limits, continuity, and differentiability.
When examining limits, graphical analysis allows students to see:
- Where the function is heading as the input gets closer to a certain value.
- If the function has any discontinuities or asymptotic behavior.
One-Sided Limits
One-sided limits are a fundamental concept in calculus. They focus on the value that a function approaches as the input approaches a particular point from one specific side.For two types of one-sided limits, we have:
- Left-hand limit: Denoted as \( \lim_{x \to a^-} f(x) \), it examines the function as it approaches \( a \) from the left (negative direction).
- Right-hand limit: Denoted as \( \lim_{x \to a^+} f(x) \), it focuses on the approach from the right (positive direction).
Exponential Functions
Exponential functions are mathematical expressions where a constant base is raised to a variable exponent. These functions show rapid growth or decay rates, depending on the sign of the exponent.Some key properties of exponential functions include:
- The function \( e^x \) where \( e \) is approximately 2.71828, is the base of natural logarithms.
- Exponential growth occurs for positive exponents, and decay for negative exponents.