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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct algebraic method to find the limit ?
A
Apply L’Hôpital’s Rule by differentiating numerator and denominator.
B
Multiply numerator and denominator by .
C
Factor the numerator as , cancel , then substitute .
D
Substitute directly into the expression.
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Recognize that the given limit lim_{x → 2} (x^2 - 4)/(x - 2) involves a rational function where direct substitution of x = 2 results in an indeterminate form (0/0). This indicates that simplification is required.
Step 2: Factor the numerator x^2 - 4 using the difference of squares formula: x^2 - 4 = (x - 2)(x + 2). Rewrite the expression as ((x - 2)(x + 2))/(x - 2).
Step 3: Cancel the common factor (x - 2) in the numerator and denominator, leaving the simplified expression x + 2. Note that this cancellation is valid only for x ≠ 2.
Step 4: Substitute x = 2 into the simplified expression x + 2 to evaluate the limit. This avoids the indeterminate form and provides the correct value of the limit.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct algebraic method is to factor the numerator, cancel the common term, and then substitute x = 2 into the simplified expression.