Open in App
Log In Start studying!

Select your language

Suggested languages for you:

Show that the exponential function defined by $$ \exp \mathrm{x}=\lim _{\mathrm{n} \rightarrow \infty}[1+(\mathrm{x} / \mathrm{n})]^{\mathrm{n}} $$ is everywhere continuous.

Short Answer

Expert verified
To show that the exponential function is everywhere continuous, we first expand the expression \((1 + \frac{x}{n})^n\) using the binomial theorem, and rewrite the limit as: \(\lim_{n \to \infty} (1 + \frac{x}{n})^n = \lim_{n \to \infty} \sum_{k=0}^n \binom{n}{k} \frac{x^k}{n^k}\) By examining the limit and using the relationship between exp(x) and the natural logarithm ln(x), we have: \( \lim_{x \to 0} \ln(\lim_{n \to \infty} (1 + \frac{x}{n})^n) = \lim_{x \to 0} \ln(\exp(x))= \lim_{x \to 0} x\) Since the limit exists and equals the function value as x approaches 0, we conclude that the exponential function is continuous at every point x.
See the step by step solution

Step by step solution

Unlock all solutions

Get unlimited access to millions of textbook solutions with Vaia Premium

Over 22 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Step 1: 1. Existing limit

: To check if the limit exists at every point x, we first expand the expression \((1 + \frac{x}{n})^n\) using the binomial theorem: \((1 + \frac{x}{n})^n = \sum_{k=0}^n \binom{n}{k} \frac{x^k}{n^k}\), where \(\binom{n}{k}\) is the binomial coefficient. Now, let's examine the limit: \(\lim_{n \to \infty} (1 + \frac{x}{n})^n = \lim_{n \to \infty} \sum_{k=0}^n \binom{n}{k} \frac{x^k}{n^k}\), We will need to find the (finite) limit of this expression as n approaches infinity.

Step 2: 2. Continuous function at every point x

: To establish that the exponential function is continuous at every point x, let's take a closer look at the limit. We can rewrite the exponential function as: \( \exp(x) = \lim_{n \to \infty} (1 + \frac{x}{n})^n\), By examining the limit: \( \lim_{x \to 0} \frac{\exp(x) - 1}{x} = \lim_{x \to 0} \frac{\lim_{n \to \infty} (1 + \frac{x}{n})^n - 1}{x}\), Now, by using the relationship between exp(x) and the natural logarithm ln(x): \( \lim_{x \to 0} \ln(\lim_{n \to \infty} (1 + \frac{x}{n})^n) = \lim_{x \to 0} \ln(\exp(x))= \lim_{x \to 0} x\), We observe that as x approaches 0, the limit exists and equals the function value, thus establishing that the exponential function is continuous at every point x.

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Access millions of textbook solutions in one place

  • Access over 3 million high quality textbook solutions
  • Access our popular flashcard, quiz, mock-exam and notes features
  • Access our smart AI features to upgrade your learning
Get Vaia Premium now
Access millions of textbook solutions in one place

Join over 22 million students in learning with our Vaia App

The first learning app that truly has everything you need to ace your exams in one place.

  • Flashcards & Quizzes
  • AI Study Assistant
  • Smart Note-Taking
  • Mock-Exams
  • Study Planner
Join over 22 million students in learning with our Vaia App Join over 22 million students in learning with our Vaia App

Recommended explanations on Math Textbooks