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Course: Precalculus > Unit 10
Lesson 15: Working with the intermediate value theorem- Intermediate value theorem
- Worked example: using the intermediate value theorem
- Using the intermediate value theorem
- Justification with the intermediate value theorem: table
- Justification with the intermediate value theorem: equation
- Justification with the intermediate value theorem
- Intermediate value theorem review
- Limits and continuity: FAQ
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Limits and continuity: FAQ
Frequently asked questions about limits and continuity
What is a limit?
A limit is the value that a function approaches as the input approaches a given value. For example, as we get closer and closer to on the function , the output seems to be getting closer and closer to . So we say that the limit of as approaches is .
What's the difference between estimating a limit from a graph versus a table?
When we estimate limits from graphs, we look for trends in the function's behavior as the input approaches a certain value. With a table, we look at the function's output as the input values get closer and closer to the value we're interested in. Both methods can help us make educated guesses about what the limit is, but neither is as precise as using algebraic properties of limits.
What is continuity?
Continuity refers to a function that doesn't have any "jumps" or "breaks" in it. A function is continuous at a point if the limit as we approach that point from both the left and the right is the same.
What are asymptotes?
Asymptotes are lines that a function approaches, but never quite touches. A vertical asymptote is a line that the function approaches as the input approaches a given value, while a horizontal asymptote is a line that the function approaches as the input goes to infinity or negative infinity.
What is the squeeze theorem?
The squeeze theorem is a way of finding the limit of a function by "sandwiching" it between two other functions whose limits we know.
How is all of this used in the real world?
Limits and continuity are fundamental concepts in calculus, which has countless applications in the real world. Calculus is used in physics, engineering, economics, and more. In particular, limits and continuity can help us understand the behavior of a function over a given interval, and can help us make predictions about how it will behave in the future.
Want to join the conversation?
- What is continuity?
Continuity refers to a function that doesn't have any "jumps" or "breaks" in it. A function is continuous at a point if the limit as we approach that point from both the left and the right is the same.
I am not sure that this definition is complete. It misses the fact that the limit from left and right should be equal to the output when we apply this point to the function.
f(a) = limit f(x) as x --> a.(14 votes)- That is correct. You should inform Khan Academy about that. With such a vast subject with multiple collaborators mistakes are bound to be made.(1 vote)
- I'm going to have a cuppa. Feel like I deserve it :)(1 vote)