Beginning Differential Calculus
Limits of functions as x approaches a constant
The following problems require the use of the algebraic computation of limits of functions as x approaches a constant. Most problems are average. A few are somewhat challenging. All of the solutions are given WITHOUT the use of L'Hopital's Rule. If you are going to try these problems before looking at the solutions, you can avoid common mistakes by giving careful consideration to the form "0/0" during the computations of these limits. Initially, many students INCORRECTLY conclude that "0/0" is equal to 1 or 0 , or that the limit does not exist or is +∞ or -∞ . In fact, the form "0/0" is an example of an indeterminate form. This simply means that you have not yet determined an answer. Usually, this indeterminate form can be circumvented by using algebraic manipulation. Such tools as algebraic simplification, factoring, and conjugates can easily be used to circumvent the form "0/0" so that the limit can be calculated.
