Determine whether f is continuous at c.

f(x)=x3+3xx2−3x    ifx≠01    ifx=0c=0

Short Answer

Expert verified

f is not continuous at c=0.

Step by step solution

01

Step 1. Given information 

We have been given a function f(x)=x3+3xx2−3x    ifx≠01    ifx=0.

We have to determine whether this function is continuous at c=0.

02

Step 2. Write the condition for continuity

We say that f is continuous at c if it is defined at c, given that c is in the domain of f so that f(c) is equal to a number.

Also, another condition is when the right and left limits at c of the function f(x) are both equal to f(c).

limx→cf(x)=f(c)

However, in a case of a piecewise-defined function, different functions for different intervals must be taken into consideration.

03

Step 3. Find f(0)

Since f(x)=x3+3xx2−3x    ifx≠01    ifx=0

we getf(0)=1

04

Step 4. Find left side limit.

limx→0− x3+3xx2−3x=limx→0− xx2+3x(x−3)=limx→0− x2+3x−3=limx→0− x2+limx→0− 3limx→0− x−limx→0− =02+30−3=3−3=-1

05

Step 5. Find right-side limit.

limx→0+ x3+3xx2−3x=limx→0+ xx2+3x(x−3)=limx→0+ x2+3x−3=limx→0+ x2+limx→0+ 3limx→0+ x−limx→0+ =02+30−3=3−3=-1

limx→0-f(x)=limx→0+f(x)

limx→0f(x)=-1

Since, limx→0f(x)≠f(0)

The function is not continuous at c=0.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free