The limit and continuity of functions are fundamental concepts in calculus, essential for understanding the behavior of functions at specific points. This summary covers key aspects of continuity, limit indeterminate forms, piecewise functions, absolute value functions, and limit properties.
Continuity: A function f(x) is continuous at x=a if its limit as x approaches a exists and equals f(a). Conditions for continuity include the function being defined at the point, having a limit at that point, and the limit matching the function value.
Limit indeterminate forms: These are situations where limits cannot be directly evaluated. The 0/0 form can often be resolved using factorization or L'Hospital's rule.
Piecewise functions: For limits of piecewise functions, evaluate the limit from both sides of the critical point. If both sides agree, the limit exists.
Absolute value functions: When dealing with limits of absolute value functions, consider the behavior on both sides of critical points.
Limit properties: Various rules govern limits of sums, differences, products, quotients, and compositions of functions, as well as limits involving roots and logarithms.