Calculus, 10th Edition (Anton)

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 0-47064-772-8
ISBN 13: 978-0-47064-772-1

Chapter 1 - Limits and Continuity - 1.4 Limits (Discussed More Rigorously) - Exercises Set 1.4 - Page 88: 38

Answer

See the proof below.

Work Step by Step

We shall prove that the limit $\lim_{x \to 0} f(x)$ does not exist via contradiction. Assume, for the sake of contradiction, that $\lim_{x \to 0} f(x) = L$. Since the limit exists, there exists $\delta$ such that $|f(x) - L| < 1/2$ for all $x$ such that $|x| < \delta$. But for such $x$, we must either have $|f(x)-L| = |0-L| = |L|$ or $|f(x) - L| = |1-L|$. Then $$|L| + |1-L| < 1/2 + 1/2 = 1,$$ which contradicts the triangle inequality, which states that $|L|+|1-L| \geq L + (1-L) = 1$. Thus the limit can not exist.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.