Math 11/L

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1
MODULE 2: LIMITS AND CONTINUITY

Source: [Link]
development-256ca15d15b5

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

This module has the following sections and corresponding icons:

Title It shows the specific topic of the module.

Overview The topics in this module are included in this

section.

A brief discussion on the

section. It helps you explore
Lesson Proper Practice
new ideas and capabilities.

It involves questions or an
expression that sets out the
Problems concepts and wordings that
you learned from real-life
circumstances.

lectures is given in this

Assessment It is a job aimed at evaluating your mastery in

acquiring learning
skills.
In this segment you will
Supplementary Knowledge lectures as an additional
improve your awareness or practice.
experience through the

Answer Key This contains answers to all activities in the

module.

This is a list of all sources that

References creation.
this module uses for
 MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 1
ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

TIME FRAME:

This module can be covered in two weeks.

OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
Good day future engineers!
CONTENTS:
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
An introductory course covering the core 1. Limits of Functions
concepts of limit, continuity and differentiability
of functions involving one or more variables. 2. One sided Limits
This also includes the application of differential
calculations in solving problems optimization,
3. Limits at Infinity
rate of change, related rates, tangents and
normal, and approximations; partial
differentiation and transcendental curve tracing.
4. Infinite Limits

5. Vertical and Horizontal Asymptotes

COURSE OUTCOME:
6. Squeeze Theorem
At the end of this course, you must be able to
solve derivatives of algebraic and transcendental 7. Continuity
functions using the appropriate formula.

In module 1, you have already learned about functions, how to execute operations on them, what are
the various types of functions, their domains and ranges.
In this module, you will learn how to compute limits, one-sided and infinite, and test the continuity of a
function.
The two underlying mathematical operations in calculus are differentiation and integration. These
operations involve computation of the derivative and the definite integral, each based on the notion of limit,
probably the single most important topic in calculus.
If you are ready, let’s start.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 2

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Lesso Limits of Functions

n 1
In this lesson, you will learn on how to define limits, illustrate limits and its theorem, and evaluate
limits applying given theorems.

LESSON PROPER
1.1. Definition of Limits:
The most basic use of limits is to describe how a function behaves as the independent variable
approaches a given value.
1.1. Example:
 a. ��(��) = ��2 − �� + 1

Figure 1.1.a.

x 1.9 1.95 1.99 1.995 1.999 2 2.001 2.005 2.01 2.05 2.1 f (x) 2.71 2.852 2.97 2.985 2.997
3.003 3.015 3.031 3.152 3.31

Left Side
Right Side

By examining the function ��(��) = ��2 − �� + 1 for x-values closer and closer to 2.
It is evident from the graph and the table that the values of f(x) get closer and closer to 3 as
the values of x are selected closer and closer to 2 on either the left or right side of 2.
We describe this by saying the “limit of ��(��) = ��2 − �� + 1 is 3 as x approaches 2
from either side,” we write:
(��2 − �� + 1) = 3
������
��→2

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 3

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

1.2. This leads us to the following general ideas:

1.2.1. Limits (as informal view)

If the value of f(x) can be made as close as we like to L by taking values of x sufficiently close to a
(but not equal to a), then we write

��→����(��) = ��
lim

which read as “the limit of f(x) as x approaches a is L” or “f(x) approaches L as x approaches a.” The
expression can also be written as
��(��) → �� as �� → ��
1.2. Example:
 ��−1
a. Use numerical evidence to make a conjecture about the value of lim
√��−1.
��→1

Figure 1.2.a.

x 0.99 0.999 0.9999 0.99999 1 1.00001 1.0001 1.001 1.01 f (x) 1.9949 1.9995 1.99995
1.999995 2.000005 2.00005 2.0005 2.004915

��−1
Although the function lim
√��−1is undefined at x = 1, this has no bearing to the limit.
��→1
The table shows sample x-values approaching 1 from the left side and from the right side.
In both cases the corresponding values of f(x) appear to get closer and closer to 2, and hence we
��−1
conjecture that lim
√��−1= 2 and is consistent with the graph of f.
��→1

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 4

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

1.3. Theorems on Limits:

Our strategy for finding limits algebraically has two parts:

• First, we will obtain the limits of some simpler function.

• Then we will develop a list of theorems that will enable us to use the limits of simple functions as
building blocks for finding limits of more complicated functions.

1.3.1. Theorem
Let a and k be real numbers.
(a) lim��→���� = �� (b) lim��→���� = ��
 Figure 1.3.1.a Figure 1.3.1.b

1.3.1.a. If ��(��) = �� is a constant function, then the values of f(x) remain fixed at k as x varies,
which explains why, in the figure 1.3.1.a, ��(��) → �� ���� �� → �� for all values of a.

1.3.1.b. If ��(��) = ��, then �� → �� it must also be true that ��(��) → ��.

1.3.1 Practice Problem

Find the limits of the following functions:

1. lim ��→−253

2. lim��→0��

3. lim��→−2��

4. lim��→����

5. lim��→03

6. lim��→��3

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 5

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

1.3.1. Explanation:

1. lim ��→−253 = 3 from theorem 1.3.1.a

2. lim��→0�� = 0 from theorem 1.3.1.b

3. lim��→−2�� = −2 from theorem 1.3.1.b

4. lim��→���� = �� from theorem 1.3.1.b

5. lim��→03 = 3 from theorem 1.3.1.a

6. lim��→��3 = 3 from theorem 1.3.1.a

 1.3.2. Theorem
Let a be a real number, and suppose that

lim��→����(��) = ��1 and lim��→����(��) = ��2

That is, the limits exist and have values L1 and L2, respectively. Then:

a) lim��→��[��(��) + ��(��)] = lim��→����(��) + lim��→����(��) = ��1 + ��2

b) lim��→��[��(��) − ��(��)] = lim��→����(��) − lim��→����(��) = ��1 − ��2

c) lim��→��[��(��)��(��)] = (lim��→����(��)) ( lim��→����(��)) = ��1 ��2

lim
��(��)] = ��→����(��)

d) lim��→��[��(��) lim��→����(��)=��1

e) ��2, provided ��2 ≠

0
lim��→��√��(��)

���������������
�� = � ��1 > 0 ���� ��
√lim��→����(��) ���� ��������.
��
,
��
= √��1
1.3.2.a. Example:

Evaluate the following limits:

1. lim(2x 5)
→→ 2. lim(6 x 12)
()
→
+
=+
lim 2x lim 5
−
=−
lim6 x lim 12
x4
→
x4x4
x3
x3x3
→→

=+
2lim x lim 5
=−
6( 3 ) 12
x4x4
→→
=
18 -12
=+
2( 4 ) 5
=
6
=+
85
=
13
2x
4. lim
()()
3. lim(4 x)( 5x 2 )
=−•−
lim 4 x lim 5x 2
−−
→→ 5x 4
x→5
−
x3x3
x3
→

()()
=−⋅−
lim 4 lim x lim 5x lim 2
lim 2x
2lim x
x3x3x3x3
→→→→
=
=
x5
→
x5
→

()()
( ) ( ) 5lim(x) lim(4)
=−⋅−
lim 4 lim x 5 lim x lim 2
lim 5x lim 4
−
−
x3x3x3x3
→→→→
x5x5
→→
x5x5
→→

( )( )
()
=−−
4 3 5( 3 ) 2
25
=
10
=

( )( )
25 4
−
21
=
1 13
=
13

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 6

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
 8x 1
+
8x 1
+
( )3
5. lim 3x +6
6. lim
=
lim
x
1
+
x3
x3
+
x3
→
( ( ))
→
x1
→
3
=+
lim 3x 6
9
3
x3
→
==
()
4
2
3
=+
lim 3x lim6
x3x3
→→

()
3
=+
3lim x lim6
x3x3
→→

(( ) ) ( )
33
=⋅+=
3 3 6 15
=
3375
Note: When evaluating the limit of a function at a given value, simply replace the variable by the
indicated limit then solve for the value of the function:
(3��2 + 4�� − 1) = 3(3)2 + 4(3)− 1
lim
��→3
= 27 + 12 − 1
= ����

1.3.2.a Practice Problem

Evaluate the following limits: Use a different sheet of paper.
 answer it all first before checking, this is
1. lim��→4[��(2�� + 1)] 2. lim��→−2(5�� + important for self-assessment.
7)4 3. lim��→4�� If you got 4 - 5 items correct, very good, you
−7��+1 already understand the concept.
If you got 3 items correct, good, you understand
4. lim��→4√��
3
most of the concepts, you only need to practice
−7��+1 for a few times.
If you got 0 – 2, it is okay, do not worry. Just try
5. lim��→3(��2 + 7�� − 5) to review the lesson then answer again.
Check your answer in answer key page. Please

1.3.2.b. Example:

Evaluate the following limits:

1. lim��→−2��3+8
Note: In evaluating a limit of a
��+2
quotient which reduces to 00,
Solution:
simplify the fraction. Just remove
3
lim��→−2�� +8
(−2)3
��+2= +8
−8+8
−2+2=
0
0= 0(indeterminate)
the common factor in the
numerator and denominator which
Equivalent function:
makes the quotient 00. To do this
= lim��→−2(��+2)(��2−2��+4)
use factoring or rationalizing the
��+2
numerator or denominator,
2
= lim��→−2(�� − 2�� + 4)
wherever the radical is.
= (−2)2 − 2(−2) + 4
= 4 + 4 + 4 = 12
∴ lim��→−2��3 +8
��+2= 12

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 7

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
2. lim��→0√��+2−√2
��

Solution:
lim��→0√��+2−√2
√0+2−√2
��=
0
0= 0(indeterminate)

Equivalent function:
= lim��→0√��+2−√2
√��+2+√2
��∙
√��+2+√2= lim��→0��+2−2
��(√��+2+√2)= lim��→0��
��(√��+2+√2)

= lim��→01
1
(√��+2+√2)=
 1
√0+2+√2=
√2
√2+√2= 4

∴ lim��→0√��+2−√2
√2
��= 4

1.3.2.b
Practice Problem Evaluate the following limits:
Use a different sheet of paper.
3
��→ 2√
8��3
−27 Please answer
Check your answer in answer key page.
1. lim is important for
2
4�� −9 it all first before checking, this self-assessment.
most of the concepts, you only need to practice
for a few times.
2. lim��→2√��3+2��+3 ��2 +5
If you got 2 items correct, very good, you If you got 0, it is okay, do not worry. Just try to
already understand the concept. review the lesson then answer again.

If you got 1 item correct, good, you understand

Congratulations! You have finished the lesson 1. Take a breather before

you proceed to the lesson 2.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 8

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Lesso One-sided Limits

n 2
 In lesson 1, you already learned about how to define limits, illustrate limits and its theorem, and
evaluate limits applying given theorems.
In this lesson, you will learn on how to define one-sided limits, illustrate one-sided limits and
investigate the limit if it exists or not using the concept of one-sided limits.

LESSON PROPER
2.1. Definition of One-sided Limits.

The limit of a function is called two-sided limit if it requires the values of f(x) to get closer and closer
to a number as the values of x are taken from either side of �� = ��. However, some functions exhibit
different behaviors on the two sides of an x-value in which case it is necessary to distinguish whether the
values of x near a are on the left side or on the right side of a for purposes of investigating limiting behavior.
2.1. Example:

Consider the function ��(��) =|��|��= {1, �� > 0

−1, �� < 0

Figure 2.1.

As x approaches 0 from the right, the values of f(x) approach a limit of 1, and similarly, as x
approaches 0 from the left, the values of f(x) approach a limit of -1.
In symbols,
lim��→0+|��|��= 1 and lim��→0−|��|��= −1

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 9

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

2.2. One-sided limits (an informal view)

If the values of f(x) can be made as close as we like to L by taking values of x sufficiently close to a
(but greater than a), then we write

lim��→��+��(��) = ��
and if the values of f(x) can be made as close as we like to L by taking values of x sufficiently close to
a (but less than a), then we write

lim��→��−��(��) = ��
The first expression is read “the limit of f(x) as x approaches a from the right is L” or “f(x) approaches
L as x approaches a from the right.” Similarly, the second expression is read “the limit of f(x) as x
approaches a from the left is L” or “f(x) approaches L as x approaches a from the left.”

2.3. The relationship between One-sided and Two-sided Limits.

The two-sided limit of a function f(x) exists at a if and only if both of the one-sided limits exist at a and
 have the same value; that is,

lim��→����(��) = �� if and only if lim��→��−��(��) = �� = lim��→��+��(��)

2.3. Example:

a. Find if the two-sided limits given ��(��) =|��|��

Solution:

Figure 2.1.a.

lim��→0+|��|��= 1 and lim��→0−|��|��= −1

Since lim��→0+|��|��≠ lim��→0−|��|��, then the two-sided limit does not exist or
lim��→0|��|��does not exist.

b. For the function in Figure 2.1.b, find the one-sided limit and two-sided limits at �� = ��
if they exist.

Figure 2.1.b.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 10

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Solution:

The functions in all three figures have the same one-sided limits as �� → ��, since the
functions are identical, except at �� = ��.
These limits are
lim��→��+��(��) = 3 and lim��→��−��(��) = 1

In all three cases the two-sided limit does not exist as �� = �� because the one-sided
limits are not equal.

3 + ��2���� �� < −2
c. Find if the two-sided limit exists in ��(��) = {
0 ���� �� = −2
}
2
11 − �� ���� �� > −2

Solution:

• ��������→��−��(��) = ������ ��→−��−(�� + ����)

• ��������→��−��(��) = ������ ��→−��+(����− ����)
= �� + (−��)�� = ��
= ���� − (−��)�� = ��
 Since the lim ��→−2+��(��) = lim ��→−2−��(��), then the two-sided limit
exists and is equal to 7 or lim��→−2��(��) = 7

2.2 Practice Problem

Find if the two-sided limit exists in the following functions: Use a different sheet of paper.
Check your answer in answer key page. Please
1. ��(��) = {6 + �� ���� �� < −2 answer it all first before checking, this is important
for self assessment.
��2���� ≥ −2}
If you got 3 items correct, very good, you already
| | understand the concept.
2. ��(��) = 3 + 2�� − 4 , determine if
If you got 2 items correct, good, you understand
lim��→2��(��) exist. most of the concepts, you only need to practice
for a few times.

3. ��(��) = {2�� ���� 0 ≤ �� ≤ 10 If you got 0 - 1, it is okay, do not worry. Just try to
review the lesson then answer again.
1.8�� ���� 10 < ��}

Congratulations! You have finished the lesson 2. Take a breather before

you proceed to the lesson 3.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 11

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Lesso Limits at Infinity

n 3
In lesson 2, you already learned about how to define one-sided limits, illustrate one-sided limits and
investigate the limit if it exists or not using the concept of one-sided limits.
In this lesson, you will learn on how to define limits at infinity, illustrate limits at infinity and determine
the horizontal asymptote.

LESSON PROPER
3.1. Definition of Limits at Infinity.
 If the values of the variable x increase without bound, then we write �� → +∞, and if the values of x
decrease without bound, then we write �� → −∞.
The behavior of a function ��(��) as x increases or decreases without bound is something called
end behavior of the function.
3.1. Example:

a. lim��→−∞1��= 0 and lim��→+∞1��= 0

3.2. Limits at Infinity (an informal view)

If the values of ��(��) eventually get as we like to a number L as x increases without bound, then

we write lim��→+∞��(��) = �� or ��(��) → �� ���� �� → +∞

Similarly, if the values of ��(��) eventually get as we like to a number L as x increases without
bound, then we write

lim��→−∞��(��) = �� or ��(��) → �� ���� �� → −∞

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 12

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

Figure 3.2.

Figure 3.2 illustrate the end behavior of the function f when

lim��→+∞��(��) = �� or lim��→−∞��(��) = ��
3.2. Example:
 a. In the figure below, find the end behavior of the function ��(��) = (1 +1��)��.

Figure 3.2.a.

Solution:

As suggested by the figure 3.2.a.,

lim��→+∞(1 +1��)��= �� and lim��→−∞(1 +1��)��= ��

Congratulations! You have finished the lesson 3. Take a breather before

you proceed to the lesson 4.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 13

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Lesso Infinite Limits

n 4
In lesson 3, you already learned about how to define limits at infinity, illustrate limits at infinity
and determine the horizontal asymptote.
In this lesson, you will learn on how to define infinite limits, illustrate infinite limits and use the
theorems to evaluate the limits of functions.

LESSON PROPER
4.1. Definition of Infinite Limits.

Sometimes one-sided or two-sided limits fail to exist because the value of the function increase or
decrease without bound.
4.1. Example:
 a. Consider the behavior of ��(��) =1��for values x near 0.
Solution:

Figure 4.1.

x -1 -0.1 -0.01 -0.001 -0.0001 0 0.0001 0.001 0.01 0.1 1 1/x -1 -10 -100 -1000 -10,000 10,000
1000 100 10 1

It is evident from the table and figure 4.1 that as x values are taken closer and closer to 0 from
the right, the values of ��(��) =1��are positive and increase without bound; and as x-values are
taken closer and closer to 0 from the left, the values of ��(��) =1��are negative and decreases
without bound. In symbols, we write

lim��→0+1��= +∞ and lim��→0−1��= −∞

Note: The symbols +∞ and −∞ here are not real numbers; they simply describe particular
ways in which the limits fail to exist. Thus, it is incorrect to write (+∞) − (−∞) = 0.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 14

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

4.2. Infinite Limits (an informal view)

The expressions

lim��→��−��(��) = +∞ and lim��→��∗��(��) = +∞

denotes that f(x)increases without bound as x approaches a from the left and from the right,
respectively. If both are true, then we write

lim��→����(��) = +∞
Similarly, the expressions

lim��→��−��(��) = −∞ and lim��→��∗��(��) = −∞

denotes that f(x) decreases without bound as x approaches a from the left and from the right,
respectively. If both are true, then we write

lim��→����(��) = −∞
 Figure 4.2.
Figure 4.2 illustrate graphically the limits for rational functions of the form 1
1
(��−��),
2 1
(��−��) ,−
2
(��−��)

4.2. Example:

Evaluate the following limits:

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 15

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
 4.3. Summary:

���� ��(��) =��(��)

��(��)
lim��→��+��(��) lim��→��−��(��) lim��→����(��)

+∞ +∞ +∞

−∞ −∞ −∞

+∞ −∞ ∞

−∞ +∞ ∞

4.3. Example:

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 16

 ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

4 Practice Problem

Use a different sheet of paper.

1. Let ��(��) =��2+��+2

�� −2��−3, find (a) lim��→3−��(��) and (b) lim��→3+��(��)
2

2. Let ��(��) =√��2 −4

��−2, find lim��→2+��(��)

3. Let ��(��) =√4−��2

��−2, find lim��→2−��(��)

Check your answer in answer key page. Please answer it all first before checking, this is
important for self-assessment.
If you got 4 items correct, very good, you already understand the concept.

If you got 2 - 3 items correct, good, you understand most of the concepts, you only need to
practice for a few times.
If you got 0 - 1, it is okay, do not worry. Just try to review the lesson then answer again.

Congratulations! You have finished the lesson 4. Take a breather before

you proceed to the lesson 5.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 17

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
 Lesso Vertical and Horizontal Asymptotes

n 5
In lesson 4, you already learned about how to define infinite limits, illustrate infinite limits and
use the theorems to evaluate the limits of functions.
In this lesson, you will learn on how to determine vertical and horizontal asymptotes.

LESSON PROPER
5.1. Definition:

The line �� = �� is a vertical asymptote of the graph of the function �� = ��(��), if at least one of
the following statements is true:

a. lim��→��+��(��) = +∞

b. lim��→��+��(��) = −∞

c. lim��→��−��(��) = +∞

d. lim��→��−��(��) = −∞

Figure 5.1.a

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 18

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
 Figure 5.1.b

Figures 5.1.a and 5.1.b illustrates the vertical asymptotes �� = ��.

5.2. Definition:

The line �� = �� is a horizontal asymptote of the graph of the function �� =

��(��), if either lim��→+∞��(��) = �� or lim��→−∞��(��) = ��

Figure 5.2.a

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 19

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
 Figure 5.2.b

Figures 5.1.a and 5.1.b illustrates the horizontal asymptotes �� = ��.

5. Example:

Determine the horizontal and vertical asymptote of the function ��(��) =3

��−2and sketch the graph.

Solution:

a. Vertical Asymptote:
b. Horizontal Asymptote:

Equate the denominator to zero to solve for

Divide both numerator and denominator by the
the vertical asymptote.
highest power of x to solve for the horizontal
asymptote.
�� − �� = �� ⇒ �� = ��
��
��
��
��− +∞=��
+∞
��
Evaluate the limit as x approaches 2
��������→+∞
��
��− ��=
�� − ��= ��
��
��������→����

�� − ��=��
��
�� − ��= ��= ∞
��
��
��
��− −∞=��
��
−∞
��������→−∞
��
��− ��=
�� − ��= ��
 ��

Intercepts:

If �� = 0, ��(��) =3
3
0−2= − 2
If ��(��) = 0, 0 =3
��−2;0 ≠ 3
therefore, there is no x-intercept

Thus, 0 is a horizontal asymptote.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 20

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

5 Practice Problem
Use a different sheet of paper.

1. Determine the horizontal and vertical asymptote of the function ��(��) =2��+1
��−3and sketch the graph.

Check your answer in answer key page. Please answer it all first before checking, this is
important for self-assessment.
If you got 3 items correct, very good, you already understand the concept.
If you got 2 items correct, good, you understand most of the concepts, you only need to
practice for a few times.
If you got 0 - 1, it is okay, do not worry. Just try to review the lesson then answer again.

Congratulations! You have finished the lesson 5. Take a breather

before you proceed to the lesson 6.

 MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 21
ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Lesso Squeeze Theorem

n 6
In lesson 5, you already learned about how to determine vertical and horizontal
asymptotes. In this lesson, you will learn on how to define squeeze theorem.

LESSON PROPER
6.1. Limits of functions using Squeeze Theorem:

The Squeeze Principle is used on limit problems where the usual algebraic methods (factoring,
conjugation, algebraic manipulation, etc.) are not effective. However, it requires that you be able to
``squeeze'' your problem in between two others ``simpler'' functions whose limits are easily computable and
equal.

The use of the Squeeze Principle requires accurate analysis, algebra skills, and careful use of
inequalities. The method of squeezing is used to prove that ��(��) → �� as �� → �� by “trapping or
squeezing” between two functions, g and h, whose limits, as �� → ��, are known with certainty to be L.

6.2. Squeeze Principle:

Assume that functions f, g, and h satisfy ��(��) ≤ ��(��) ≤ ℎ(��) and

lim��→����(��) = �� = lim��→��ℎ(��) then lim��→����(��) = ��.
6.2. Example:

| | 2
a. Given ��(��) − 2 ≤ 3(�� − 1) for all x. Use squeeze theorem to find lim��→1��(��).
Solution:

| | 2
Because ��(��) − 2 ≤ 3(�� − 1) for all x, it follows that

−��(�� − ��)�� ≤ ��(��) − �� ≤ ��(�� − ��)��

for all x
for all x
��
⇔ −��(�� − ��) + �� ≤ ��(��)
≤ ��(�� − ��)�� + ��

Let ��(��) = −3(�� − 1)2 + 2 and ℎ(��) = 3(�� − 1)2 + 2. Then

lim��→1��(��) = 2 and lim��→1ℎ(��) = 2

Furthermore, for all x,
��(��) ≤ ��(��) ≤ ℎ(��)
Thus, from squeeze theorem
lim��→1��(��) = 2

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 22

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

6.3. Theorem:

(a) lim��→0sin��
��= 1 (b) lim��→01−cos��
��= 0

Figure 6.3.
6.3. Example:
 Evaluate the following limits.
1. ��������→�������� ��
3. ��������→������������
��
��

Solution:
Solution:
��������→����������

��= ��������→��(������ ��
��∙��
��������→������������

��= ��������→��(����������
��
��∙ ��)
��������)
(��������→�������� ��

��)(��������→����
��(��������→�������� ����

��������) = ��(��) = ��
����) = ��(��) = ��

2. ��������→������������
4. ��������→����−������ ����−����������
����������
��

Solution:
Solution:
����������
��������→���� − ���������� − ����������
��������→������������
��

���������� = ��������→��(
)
��
����������
= ��������→��(�� + ��) − ���������� − ����������
��
��
��������→��(��(������ ����

���� )
) =��(��)
��
��(��)= ��
= (��������→���� − ����������

��) + (��������→���� − ����������

��)
��(������ ����
��)
= (�� ��������→���� − ����������

����) + (�� ��������→���� − ����������

����)
= ��(��) + ��(��) = ��
 Congratulations! You have finished the lesson 6. Take a breather

before you proceed to the lesson 7.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 23

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Lesso Continuity

n 7
In lesson 6, you already learned about how to define squeeze theorem.
In this lesson, you will learn on how to test the continuity of a function at a number and an interval.

LESSON PROPER
7.1. Definition of Continuity of a Function

A function f(x) is said to be continuous at x = c provided the following conditions are

satisfied: 1. ��(��) is defined

2. lim��→����(��) exists.
3. lim��→����(��) = ��(��)

Note: If one or more of the above conditions fails to hold at c the function is said to be
discontinuous.

7.2. Theorem:
If the functions f(x) and g(x) are continuous at c, then
a. ��(��) + ��(��) is continuous at c

b. ��(��) − ��(��) is continuous at c.

c. ��(��)��(��) is continuous at c.

d. ��(��)/��(��) is continuous at c if ��(��) ≠ 0 and has a discontinuity at c if ��(��) = 0

7.2. Example:
 a. Given the function ��(��) =��2 −��−6
��−3, draw a sketch of the graph of f(x), then by observing where
there are breaks in the graph, determine the values of the independent variable at which the function is
discontinuous and why each is discontinuous.

Solution:

Simplify first,

��(��) =��2 − �� − 6

�� − 3=(�� + 2)(�� − 3)
�� − 3= �� + 2
∴ ��(��) = �� + 2 ��ℎ������ �� ≠ 3

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 24

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

Figure 7.2.a

2
�� −��−6
b. Given the function ��(��) = { of f(x), then by
��−3���� �� ≠ 3

2 ���� �� = 3}, draw a sketch of the graph

observing where there are breaks in the graph, determine the values of the independent variable at
which the function is discontinuous and why each is discontinuous.

Solution:
 Figure 7.2.b
Test for continuity:
1. ��(3) is defined and is equal to 2
2. lim��→3��(��) = lim��→3��2−��−6
��−3= lim��→3(��+2)(��−3)
��−3= lim��→3(�� + 2) = 5
3. lim��→3��(��) = 5 and lim��→3��(3) = 2

The limit exists but lim��→3��(��) ≠ ��(3) therefore f(x) is discontinuous at �� = 3.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 25

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

7.3. Additional:

Figure 7.3.a

Figure 7.3.a illustrates the function not defined at �� = ��, which violates the first
 condition.

Figure 7.3.b

Figure 7.3.b illustrates that the limit coming from the right and left both exist but are not equal, thus
the two-sided limit does not exist which violates the second condition. This kind of discontinuity is called
jump discontinuity.

Figure 7.3.c

Figure 7.3.c illustrates that the limit coming from the right and left of c are both +∞, thus the
two-sided limit does not exist which violates the second condition. This kind of discontinuity is called infinite
discontinuity.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 26

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

Figure 7.3.d
Figure 7.3.d illustrates the function defined at c and that the limit coming from the right and left of c
both exist thus the two-sided limit exist. But ��(��) ≠ lim��→����(��) which violates the third condition.
This kind of discontinuity is called removable discontinuity.
 7 Practice Problem

Determine whether the following functions is continuous at �� = 2. Use a different sheet of paper.

1. ��(��) =��2 −4
��−2

2. ��(��) = {��2 −4
��−2, �� ≠ 2
}
3 . �� = 2

3. ℎ(��) = {��2 −4
��−2,
.�� =
�� ≠ 2
22 }

Check your answer in answer key page. Please answer it all first before checking, this is
important for self-assessment.
If you got 3 items correct, very good, you already understand the concept.
If you got 2 items correct, good, you understand most of the concepts, you only need to
practice for a few times.
If you got 0 - 1, it is okay, do not worry. Just try to review the lesson then answer

[Link]! You have finished the Module 2. Take a

breather.

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 27

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
 Assessment
This part is a graded assessment, I will assess if you have learned the whole module. Use pencil
or ballpoint to write your answer. Write your answer in a separate piece of paper and show your solution.
Copy the questions then answer. After you answer, send it to me via Google Classroom in a PDF file. As
much as possible, try to avoid erasure. Good Luck!

A. Find the limits of the following functions: (2 points each)

1. lim��→3(��2 + 7�� − 5)

2. lim��→2√��3 +2��+3
2
�� +5

3. lim��→5��2 −25
��−5

4. lim��→4√��−2
��−4

5. lim��→−12��2 −��−3
3 2
�� +2�� +6��+5

B. Find the limits of the following functions: (2 points each)

| |
1. ��(��) = { �� ���� �� ≠ 0

2 ���� �� = 0}, find lim��→0��(��), if it exists.

2. ℎ(��) = {4 − ��2���� �� ≤ 1

2 + ��2���� 1 < ��}, find lim��→1−ℎ(��), and lim��→1+ℎ(��), if they exist.

3. ��(��) =|��−3|
��−3, find lim��→3−��(��), and lim��→3��(��), if they exist

C. Find the limits of the following functions: (2 points each)

1. lim��→0−√3+��2
��

2. lim��→3+√��2−9
��−3

2
3. lim��→0+(1��−1�� )

4. lim��→3−��3+9��2+20��
2
�� +��−12

5. lim��→2+6��2 +��−2
2
2�� +3��−2
 MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 28
ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

D. Continuity: (2 points each)

1. Find the points of discontinuity (if any) of the function f(x) whose graph is shown

below.

2. Determine the points of discontinuity (if any) of the function ��(��) = {1 ���� �� ≥ 0

−1 ���� �� < 0}. See figure below.

3. Find the points of discontinuity of the function ��(��) =��2−1

��−1

2
�� −9
4. Find the points of discontinuity of the
function ��(��) = { �� + 1 ���� �� ≥ 2
��−3������ �� ≠ 3

6 ������ �� = 3}
5. Find the points of discontinuity 2�� − 1 ���� 1 < �� < 2 �� }. See figure below
(if any) of the function ��(��) = − 1 ���� �� ≤ 1
{
 MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 29
ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

Answer Key
Answers for 1.3.2.a Practice problem:

1. lim��→4[��(2�� + 1)] = 4(2(4) + 1) = 4(9) = ����

2. lim��→−2(5�� + 7)4 = (5(−2) + 7)4 = (−3)4 = ����

3. lim��→4��
4
−7��+1=
��
−7(4)+1=
−����

��
��
4. lim��→4√
3
= √4
3
= √4
−7��+1
= −√��
3
−7(4)+1
−27 ��

5. lim��→3(��2 + 7�� − 5) = ((3)2 + 7(3) − 5) = 9 + 21

− 5 = ���� Answers for 1.3.2.b Practice Problem:

3 8��3
��→ 2√ −27
1. lim 2
4�� −9
 2. lim��→2√��3+2��+3
2
�� +5

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 30

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

Answers for 2.2. Practice

Problem:

1. (��) = {6 + �� ����
2
�� < −2 b. lim g( x ) lim x = + + →− →−
��2���� ≥ −2}
x2x2 ()
Solution:
4=
() 2
a. lim g( x ) lim 6 x -2
= + − − →− →− =
x2x2

62 4=
=−
Since the lim ��→−2+��(��) = lim ��→−2−��(��), then the two-sided limit
exists and is equal to 4 or lim��→−2��(��) = 4

| |
2. ��(��) = 3 + 2�� − 4 , determine if lim��→2��(��) exist.

Solution:

b. lim f ( x ) lim 3 2x 4
a. lim f ( x ) lim 3 2x 4 = + − → +→ +
x2x2

=+−
−
→ → ()−

x2x2( )
3
3224=+− =

3224 3=
=+−

Since the lim��→��+��(��) = lim��→2−��(��), then the two-sided limit

exists and is equal to 3 or lim��→2��(��) = 3

3. ��(��) = {2�� ���� 0 ≤ �� ≤ 10

1.8�� ���� 10 < ��}

Solution:
����
•
• ��������→��−��(��)
��������→��−��(� = ������
�) = ������ ��→����+(��.����) =
����
��→����−(����) =

Since the lim ��→10+��(��) ≠ lim ��→10−��(��), then the two-sided limit does not exist.

Answers for 4. Practice Problem:

1. Let ��(��) =��2+��+2

�� −2��−3, find (a) lim��→3−��(��) and (b) lim��→3+��(��)
2

Solution:

a. lim��→3−��2 +��+2
2 (3)2
�� −2��−3= +(3)+2
2 14
(3) −2(3)−3= 0= +∞

b. lim��→3+��2 +��+2
2 (3)2
�� −2��−3= +(3)+2
2 14
(3) −2(3)−3= 0= −∞

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 31

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

2. Let ��(��) =√��2 −4

��−2, find lim��→2+��(��)

Solution:

Because �� → 2+,�� − 2 > 0, so �� − 2 = √(�� − 2)2

lim��→2+√��2 − 4

�� − 2= lim��→2+√(�� − 2)(�� + 2)
 2
√(�� − 2) = lim��→2+√(�� − 2)(�� + 2)
√(�� − 2)(�� − 2)

lim��→2+√(�� + 2)
2 +
√(�� − 2)= 0= += +∞

3. Let ��(��) =√4−��2

��−2, find lim��→2−��(��)

Solution:

Because �� → 2−,�� − 2 < 0, so �� − 2 =

−√(�� − 2)2 lim��→2+√��2 − 4

�� − 2= lim��→2+√(�� − 2)(�� + 2)
2
−√(�� − 2) = lim��→2+√(�� − 2)(�� + 2)
−√(�� − 2)(�� − 2)

lim��→2+√(�� + 2)
2 − +
−√(�� − 2)= 0 = −= −∞

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 32

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Answers for 5. Practice Problem:

1. Determine the horizontal and vertical asymptote of the function ��(��) =2��+1
��−3and sketch the graph
Solution:

MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 33

ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]
Answers for 7. Practice Problem:

1. ��(��) =��2−4
��−2

Solution:

2. ��(��) = {��2−4
} ��−2,�� ≠
2 3 . �� =
2
Solution:

3. ℎ(��) = {��2 −4
} ��−2,�� ≠
2 2 . �� =
2
Solution:
 MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 34
ENGINEERING CALCULUS 1 [DATE]

References

1. Louis Leithold , The calculus 7 7th edition

2. Clyde E. Love and Earl D. Rainville, Differential and integral calculus 6th
edition 3. Dit Gallesania, Engineering mathematics volume 2, Third Edition
MODULE 2 LIMITS AND CONTINUITY 35