How do you find the limit of a polynomial function as x approaches a given value?
For a polynomial function, you can find the limit as x approaches a given value by direct substitution—simply plug the value of x into the function.
What steps should you take to find the limit of a rational function when direct substitution results in a zero denominator?
If direct substitution gives a zero denominator, factor both the numerator and denominator, cancel any common factors, and then substitute the value to find the limit.
How do you find the limit of a rational function involving radicals when substitution gives a zero denominator?
Multiply the numerator and denominator by the conjugate of the radical expression, simplify to cancel common factors, and then substitute the value to find the limit.
What is the limit of (x^2 + 2x - 15)/(x - 3) as x approaches 3?
First, factor the numerator to (x - 3)(x + 5), cancel the (x - 3) terms, and substitute x = 3 into the remaining expression to get 3 + 5 = 8.
How do you find the limit of a polynomial function as x approaches a given value?
You use direct substitution by plugging the value of x into the polynomial function to find the limit.
What should you do first when finding the limit of a rational function if direct substitution gives a zero denominator?
You should factor both the numerator and denominator, cancel any common factors, and then substitute the value to find the limit.
What is the process for finding the limit of a rational function involving radicals when substitution gives a zero denominator?
Multiply the numerator and denominator by the conjugate of the radical expression, simplify to cancel common factors, and then substitute the value to find the limit.
What is the limit of (x^2 + 2x - 15)/(x - 3) as x approaches 3?
First, factor the numerator to (x - 3)(x + 5), cancel the (x - 3) terms, and substitute x = 3 into the remaining expression to get 8.
Why is it important to check the denominator when finding the limit of a rational function using direct substitution?
If the denominator equals zero, direct substitution is not valid and you must use factoring or the conjugate method to simplify before evaluating the limit.
What is the purpose of multiplying by the conjugate when finding limits involving radicals?
Multiplying by the conjugate helps eliminate the radical and creates a common factor that can be canceled, allowing you to evaluate the limit.