Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Lesson 1.2
Evaluating Limits through Graphs
Contents
Introduction 1

Learning Objectives 2

Warm Up 2

Learn about It! 4

Evaluating Limits through Graphs 5
One-Sided Limits 12
Infinite Limits 21

Key Points 30

Check Your Understanding 32

Challenge Yourself 33

Photo Credits 34

Bibliography 34

Key to Try It! 35

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Lesson 1.2

Evaluating Limits through Graphs

Introduction
To have a refreshing drink, we put ice in our glass of water. The ice gradually melts, and the
temperature of the water becomes colder. What happens to the temperature of the water
after a few more minutes? It slowly increases as the water becomes warmer. Is there a limit
to this increase in temperature, or will the water temperature continue to rise indefinitely?

Calculus is mathematics of change. In the above scenario, temperature changes with time.
We know that the temperature of the water will eventually reach a certain limit. This limit is
equal to the temperature of the room where the glass is placed.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 1

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
In this lesson, we will continue our discussion on evaluating the limits of functions. By now,
you already know how to estimate limits by using a table of values. This time, we will evaluate
the limits of functions by observing their graphs.

Learning Objectives
DepEd Competency
In this lesson, you should be able to do the
following: Illustrate the limit of a function
using the graph of the function
● Recall the definition of limits, one-sided
(STEM_BC11LC-IIIa-1).
limits, and infinite limits.
● Estimate the limit of functions using graphs.

Warm Up
Graph It! 15 minutes

In this activity, you will explore how to determine the limit of the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 given its
graph. But first, you must recall how to use the table of values to find the limit.

Materials
● calculator
● graphing paper
● pen

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 2

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Procedure
1. On your graphing paper, copy the table of values below. The first and second
columns contain 𝑥 values that are close to 1 from the left and from the right.

Table 1.2.1. Table of values for 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2

𝒙 values to the 𝒙 values to the

𝒇(𝒙) 𝒇(𝒙)
left of 1 right of 1

0.6 1.4

0.7 1.3

0.8 1.2

0.9 1.1

0.999 1.001

2. Using the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 , determine the value of the function at each value of 𝑥.
You may use your calculator to do this. Write your answers on the second and fourth
columns.
3. By observing the values of the function, determine the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 as 𝑥
approaches 1.
4. Graph the function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 on the same graphing paper by plotting the ten ordered
pairs from the table of values.

Guide Questions
1. By observing the values of the function, what value does 𝑓(𝑥) approach as 𝑥
approaches 1 from the left? from the right?
2. By observing the graph, what value does 𝑓(𝑥) approach as 𝑥 approaches 1 from the
left? from the right?
3. What have you observed with your answers in Questions 1 and 2?
4. By looking at the graph, how will you determine the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 1?

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 3

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Learn about It!

How do you determine the limit of a function using

its graph?

Graphs are visual representations of data. They show us the big picture instead of a set of
individual values. By using graphs, we simplify numerous and complicated figures. That is why
graphs are often used to analyze data.

In the previous lesson, we constructed tables of values for different functions to determine
their limits. The graph of a function shows how the function behaves for any value of 𝑥. Thus,
we can also use graphs to find limits.

Let us recall the intuitive definition of a limit. The formal definition will be discussed in the
succeeding lessons.

Intuitive Definition of a Limit

Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is near 𝑐. If 𝑓(𝑥) gets closer to a real
number 𝐿 as 𝑥 gets closer to 𝑐 (both from left and right of 𝑐), then we say that “the
limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 is equal to 𝐿.” This is written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑳.
𝒙→𝒄

In this case, we say that the limit exists.

The number 𝑐 may or may not be in the domain of the function 𝑓(𝑥).

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 4

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Evaluating Limits through Graphs
Finding the limit of a function through its graph requires observation of how the graph
behaves at a particular value of 𝑥. In the Warm Up activity, we observed the graph of the
function 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2 in order to determine the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 1.

The absence of a “gap” or “break” in the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) at 𝑥 = 1 shows that the limit of the
function exists at 𝑥 = 1. By looking at the graph above, we see that as 𝑥 approaches 1 both
from the left and the right sides, 𝑓(𝑥) approaches 1. Thus, lim 𝑥 2 = 1.
𝑥→1

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 5

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Let’s Practice!
Example 1
Estimate lim (2𝑥 − 3) using its graph below.
𝑥→5

Solution
Step 1: Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 5 from the left and right
sides.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 6

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Step 2: Estimate the value that the function approaches as 𝑥 approaches 5.

As 𝑥 approaches 5 from the left and right sides, the function approaches 7. Therefore,
lim (2𝑥 − 3) = 7.
𝑥→5

1 Try It!
Estimate lim (𝑥 + 3) using its graph below.
𝑥→2

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 7

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Example 2
Estimate lim (𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 4) using its graph below.
𝑥→1

Solution
Step 1: Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 1 from the left and right
sides.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 8

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Step 2: Estimate the value that the function approaches as 𝑥 approaches 1.

As 𝑥 approaches 1 from the left and right sides, the function approaches 0. Therefore,
lim (𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 4) = 0.
𝑥→1

Try It!
2 Estimate lim (−𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 − 1) using its graph below.
𝑥→2

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 9

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Example 3
𝑥−1
Estimate lim using its graph below.
𝑥→−3 𝑥+5

Solution
Step 1: Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches −3 from the left and right
sides.

Step 2: Estimate the value that the function approaches as 𝑥 approaches −3.

As 𝑥 approaches −3 from the left and right sides, the function approaches −2. Therefore,
𝑥−1
lim = −2.
𝑥→−3 𝑥+5

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 10

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

3 Try It!
𝑥+6
Estimate lim 𝑥−3 using its graph below.
𝑥→0

Did You Know?

Infinitesimal Calculus or simply Calculus is the mathematics of

continuous change. Its invention and development are credited to
Sir Isaac Newton, an English mathematician and physicist, and
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, a German mathematician and physicist.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 11

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

One-Sided Limits
Let us recall the definition of one-sided limits.

One-Sided Limits

Left-hand Limit: Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is near 𝑐 from the
left. If 𝑓(𝑥) gets closer to 𝑀 as 𝑥 gets closer to 𝑐 from the left, then we say that
“the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 from the left is equal to 𝑀.” This can be
written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑴.
𝒙→𝒄−

Right-hand Limit: Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is near 𝑐 from
the right. If 𝑓(𝑥) gets closer to 𝑁 as 𝑥 gets closer to 𝑐 from the right, then we say
that “the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 from the right is equal to 𝑁.” This can
be written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑵.
𝒙→𝒄+

The number 𝑐 may or may not be in the domain of the function 𝑓(𝑥).

How do you determine if the two-sided limit of a

function exists?

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 12

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Let’s Practice!
Example 4
−1, 𝑥<0
The signum function 𝑠(𝑥) = { 0, 𝑥 = 0 gives −1 for negative values of 𝑥, 0 for 𝑥 = 0, and 1
1, 𝑥>1
for positive values of 𝑥 as shown below.

Estimate lim− 𝑠(𝑥), lim+ 𝑠(𝑥), and lim 𝑠(𝑥) using its graph.
𝑥→0 𝑥→0 𝑥→0

Solution
Step 1: Estimate lim− 𝑠(𝑥).
𝑥→0

To estimate lim− 𝑠(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 0

𝑥→0

from the left. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 13

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Thus, lim− 𝑠(𝑥) = −1.

𝑥→0

Step 2: Estimate lim+ 𝑠(𝑥).

𝑥→0

To estimate lim+ 𝑠(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 0

𝑥→0

from the right. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

Thus, lim+ 𝑠(𝑥) = 1.

𝑥→0

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 14

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Step 3: Determine lim 𝑠(𝑥).
𝑥→0

Since lim− 𝑠(𝑥) ≠ lim+ 𝑠(𝑥), the lim 𝑠(𝑥) does not exist.
𝑥→0 𝑥→0 𝑥→0

4 Try It!
2, 𝑥<3
Let 𝑓(𝑥) = { . Estimate lim− 𝑓(𝑥), lim+ 𝑓(𝑥), and lim 𝑓(𝑥) using its graph
5, 𝑥≥3 𝑥→3 𝑥→3 𝑥→3

below.

Example 5
𝑥 + 2, 𝑥 ≤ 2
Let 𝑓(𝑥) = { 2 . Estimate lim 𝑓(𝑥) using its graph below.
𝑥 , 𝑥>2 𝑥→2

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 15

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Solution
To estimate lim 𝑓(𝑥), we have to determine lim− 𝑓(𝑥) and lim+ 𝑓(𝑥).
𝑥→2 𝑥→2 𝑥→2

Step 1: Estimate lim− 𝑓(𝑥).

𝑥→2

To estimate lim− 𝑓(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 2

𝑥→2

from the left. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

Thus, lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = 4.

𝑥→2

Step 2: Estimate lim+ 𝑓 (𝑥).

𝑥→2

To estimate lim+ 𝑓(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 2

𝑥→2

from the right. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 16

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Thus, lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = 4.

𝑥→2

Step 3: Determine lim 𝑓(𝑥).

𝑥→2

Since lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = 4, the lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 4.

𝑥→2 𝑥→2 𝑥→2

Try It!
5
2𝑥 − 3, 𝑥≤1
Let 𝑓(𝑥) = { 2 . Estimate lim 𝑓(𝑥) using its graph below.
𝑥 − 2, 𝑥>1 𝑥→1

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 17

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Example 6
𝑥 2 − 1, 𝑥<1
Graph 𝑔(𝑥) = { 2 . Then, estimate lim− 𝑔(𝑥), lim+ 𝑔(𝑥), and lim 𝑔(𝑥) using its
, 𝑥≥1 𝑥→1 𝑥→1 𝑥→1
𝑥+1

graph.

Solution
Step 1: Graph the two functions on one coordinate plane.

The orange graph is the quadratic function 𝑔1 (𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 1 with vertex at (0, −1)
2
and 𝑥-intercepts −1 and 1. The blue graph is the rational function 𝑔2 (𝑥) = 𝑥+1

with vertical asymptote 𝑥 = −1, horizontal asymptote 𝑦 = 0, and 𝑦-intercept 2.

Step 2: Restrict the domains of the two functions.

2
Restrict the domain of 𝑔1 (𝑥) = 𝑥 2 − 1 to 𝑥 < 1 and the domain of 𝑔2 (𝑥) = 𝑥+1

to 𝑥 ≥ 1.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 18

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Step 3: Estimate lim− 𝑔(𝑥).

𝑥→1

To estimate lim− 𝑔(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 1

𝑥→1

from the left. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

We will observe the behavior of the quadratic function as 𝑥 approaches 1.

Thus, lim− 𝑔(𝑥) = 0.

𝑥→1

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 19

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Step 4: Estimate lim+ 𝑔(𝑥).
𝑥→1

To estimate lim+ 𝑔(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 1

𝑥→1

from the right. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

We will observe the behavior of the rational function as 𝑥 approaches 1.

Thus, lim+ 𝑔(𝑥) = 1.

𝑥→1

Step 5: Determine lim 𝑔(𝑥).

𝑥→1

Since lim− 𝑔(𝑥) ≠ lim+ 𝑔(𝑥), then lim 𝑔(𝑥) does not exist.
𝑥→1 𝑥→1 𝑥→1

6 Try It!

𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 2, 𝑥<2
Graph 𝑔(𝑥) = { 2 . Then, estimate lim− 𝑔(𝑥), lim+ 𝑔(𝑥), and lim 𝑔(𝑥)
, 𝑥≥2 𝑥→2 𝑥→2 𝑥→2
𝑥

using its graph.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 20

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

What are the advantages of finding limits of

functions through their graphs compared to
evaluating limits through tables of values?

Infinite Limits
Let us recall the definition of infinite limits.

Infinite Limits

Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is as near as possible to 𝑐 on

both sides.

If 𝑓(𝑥) increases without bound as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐, then we write

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = ∞.
𝒙→𝒄

If 𝑓(𝑥) decreases without bound as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐, then we write

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = − ∞.
𝒙→𝒄

In both cases, the limit does not exist.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 21

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Did You Know?

The vertical line 𝑥 = 𝑎 is a vertical asymptote of a function if the

one-sided or two-sided limit of the function as 𝑥 approaches 𝑎 is
either positive or negative infinity.

Let’s Practice!
Example 7
1
Estimate lim 𝑥 2 using its graph below.
𝑥→0

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 22

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Solution
1
Step 1: Estimate lim− 𝑥 2.
𝑥→0

Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 0 from the left side. Then,
determine the value that the function approaches.

Notice that the function increases without bound as it approaches 𝑥 = 0 from

1
the left. Thus, lim− 𝑥 2 = ∞.
𝑥→0

1
Step 2: Estimate lim+ 𝑥 2.
𝑥→0

Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 0 from the right side.
Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 23

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Notice that the function increases without bound as it approaches 𝑥 = 0 from

1
the right. Thus, lim+ 𝑥 2 = ∞.
𝑥→0

1
Step 3: Determine lim 𝑥 2.
𝑥→0

1 1 1
Since lim− 𝑥 2 = ∞ = lim+ 𝑥 2, the lim 𝑥 2 = ∞. Since the limit is infinity, we can
𝑥→0 𝑥→0 𝑥→0

also say that the limit of the function as 𝑥 approaches 0 does not exist.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 24

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

7 Try It!
1
Estimate lim (𝑥−2)2 using its graph below.
𝑥→2

Example 8
𝑥−4
Estimate lim 𝑥−3 using its graph below.
𝑥→3

Solution
𝑥−4
Step 1: Estimate lim− 𝑥−3.
𝑥→3

Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 3 from the left side. Then,
determine the value that the function approaches.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 25

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Notice that the function increases without bound as it approaches 𝑥 = 3 from

𝑥−4
the left. Thus, lim− 𝑥−3 = ∞.
𝑥→3

𝑥−4
Step 2: Estimate lim+ 𝑥−3.
𝑥→3

Observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches 3 from the right side.
Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

Notice that the function decreases without bound as it approaches 𝑥 = 3 from

𝑥−4
the right. Thus, lim+ 𝑥−3 = −∞.
𝑥→3

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 26

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
𝑥−4
Step 3: Determine lim 𝑥−3.
𝑥→3

𝑥−4 𝑥−4 𝑥−4

Since lim− 𝑥−3 ≠ lim+ 𝑥−3, the lim 𝑥−3 does not exist.
𝑥→3 𝑥→3 𝑥→3

Try It!
8 𝑥
Estimate lim 𝑥−7 using its graph below.
𝑥→7

Example 9
(𝑥+3)
Graph 𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥+1)(𝑥−2). Then, estimate lim − 𝑓(𝑥), lim + 𝑓(𝑥) and lim 𝑓(𝑥) using its graph.
𝑥→−1 𝑥→−1 𝑥→−1

Solution
Step 1: Graph the function.

The function 𝑓(𝑥) has vertical asymptotes 𝑥 = −1 and 𝑥 = 2, horizontal

asymptote 𝑦 = 0, and 𝑥-intercept at −3. The graph of the function is shown
below.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 27

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Step 3: Estimate lim − 𝑓(𝑥).

𝑥→−1

To estimate lim − 𝑓(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches −1

𝑥→−1

from the left. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

Thus, lim − 𝑓(𝑥) = ∞.

𝑥→−1

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 28

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
Step 2: Estimate lim + 𝑓(𝑥).
𝑥→−1

To estimate lim + 𝑓(𝑥), observe the behavior of the graph as 𝑥 approaches −1

𝑥→−1

from the right. Then, determine the value that the function approaches.

Thus, lim + 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞.

𝑥→−1

Step 3: Determine lim 𝑓(𝑥).

𝑥→−1

Since lim − 𝑓(𝑥) ≠ lim + 𝑓(𝑥), the lim 𝑓(𝑥) does not exist.
𝑥→−1 𝑥→−1 𝑥→−1

9 Try It!
𝑥−2
Graph 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥(𝑥+4). Then, estimate lim 𝑓(𝑥), lim 𝑓(𝑥), and lim 𝑓(𝑥) using its
𝑥→−4 − 𝑥→−4 + 𝑥→−4

graph.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 29

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Key Points
___________________________________________________________________________________________

● Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is near 𝑐. If 𝑓(𝑥) gets closer to a real
number 𝐿 from both sides as 𝑥 gets closer to 𝑐, then we say that “the limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as
𝑥 approaches 𝑐 is equal to 𝐿.” This is written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑳.
𝒙→𝒄

● Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is near 𝑐 from the left. If 𝑓(𝑥) gets closer
to 𝑀 as 𝑥 gets closer to 𝑐 from the left, then the left-hand limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches
𝑐 is equal to 𝑀. This can be written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑴.
𝒙→𝒄−

● Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is near 𝑐 from the right. If 𝑓(𝑥) gets closer
to 𝑁 as 𝑥 gets closer to 𝑐 from the right, then the right-hand limit of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥
approaches 𝑐 is equal to 𝑁. This can be written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = 𝑵.
𝒙→𝒄+

● In limits, the value 𝑥 approaches, 𝑐, may or may not be in the domain of the function
𝑓(𝑥).

● If the left- and right-hand limits of 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 are equal, then we say
that the limit of 𝒇(𝒙) as 𝒙 approaches 𝒄 exists. Otherwise, the limit does not
exist.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 30

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

● Suppose the function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined when 𝑥 is as near as possible to 𝑐 on both sides.
If 𝑓(𝑥) increases without bound as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐, then we say that “the limit of 𝑓(𝑥)
as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 is infinity.” This is written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = ∞.
𝒙→𝒄

If 𝑓(𝑥) decreases without bound as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐, then we say that “the limit of 𝑓(𝑥)
as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 is negative infinity.” This is written as

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒇(𝒙) = − ∞.
𝒙→𝒄

● To estimate the limit of a function 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 using the graph of the
function, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Graph the function.
Step 2: Estimate the left-hand limit by observing the 𝑦-value approached by
the graph as as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 from the left.
Step 3: Estimate the right-hand limit by observing the 𝑦-value approached by
the graph as 𝑥 approaches 𝑐 from the right.
Step 4: If the left- and right-hand limits are both equal to a number 𝐿, then
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐿. Otherwise, lim 𝑓(𝑥) does not exist.
𝑥→𝑐 𝑥→𝑐

__________________________________________________________________________________________

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 31

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Check Your Understanding

A. Write the corresponding mathematical expression for each

statement.

1. The limit of the function 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 5 is equal to 2.

2. The limit of the function 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches −1 from the left is equal to 10.
3. The value of the function 𝑓(𝑥) increases without bound as 𝑥 approaches 3.
4. The limit of the function 𝑓(𝑥) as 𝑥 approaches 0 is negative infinity.
5. The value of the function 𝑓(𝑥) decreases without bound as 𝑥 approaches −2 from
the right.

B. Determine the limits given the graph of the piecewise

function 𝑔(𝑥) below.

1. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→−1−

2. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→−1+

3. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→1

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 32

Unit 1: Limit of a Function
4. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→2+

5. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→2

C. For each item, graph the function 𝑓(𝑥). Use the graph to
estimate lim− 𝑓(𝑥), lim+ 𝑓(𝑥), and lim 𝑓(𝑥).
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

𝑥 − 2, 𝑥 < −3
1. 𝑓(𝑥) = { 2 ; 𝑎 = −3
𝑥 − 4, 𝑥 ≥ −3
𝑥+5
2. 𝑓(𝑥) = 6−𝑥 ; 𝑎 = 6

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions.

1. Identify all the values of 𝑥 for which the limit of the function 𝑓(𝑥) does not exist.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 33

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

2. How will you know if a function has an infinite limit?

3. Give a function 𝑓(𝑥) and a number 𝑎 such that lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 𝑓(𝑥). Show
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

the graph of the function.

4. Give a function 𝑓(𝑥) and a number 𝑎 such that lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) but lim 𝑓(𝑥) does
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

not exist. Show the graph of the function.

5. Give a function 𝑓(𝑥) and a number 𝑎 such that lim− 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞ and lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = ∞.
𝑥→𝑎 𝑥→𝑎

Show the graph of the function.

Photo Credits
Statues of Isaac Newton and Gottfried Leibniz by Andrew Gray and Alexey Gomankov is
licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Bibliography
Anton, Howard, Irl Bivens, and Stephen Davis. Calculus Early Transcendentals. 10th ed.
Danvers, MA: John Wiley & Songs, Inc., 2012

Edwards, C.H., and David E. Penney. Calculus: Early Transcendentals. 7th ed. Upper Saddle
River, New Jersey: Pearson/Prentice Hall, 2008.

Larson, Ron, and Bruce Edwards. Calculus. 9th ed. Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning, 2010.

Pierce, Rod. “Limits (An Introduction).” Math is Fun. Accessed January 22, 2020.
https://www.mathisfun.com/calculus/limits.html.

Stewart, James. Calculus. Massachusetts: Cengage Learning, 2016.

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 34

Unit 1: Limit of a Function

Key to Try It!

1. 5
2. −1
3. −2
4. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 2, lim+ 𝑓(𝑥) = 5, lim 𝑓(𝑥) does not exist
𝑥→3− 𝑥→3 𝑥→3

5. −1
6. lim 𝑔(𝑥) = 0, lim+ 𝑔(𝑥) = 1, lim 𝑔(𝑥) does not exist
𝑥→2− 𝑥→2 𝑥→2

7. ∞
𝑥
8. lim 𝑥−7 does not exist
𝑥→7

9. lim 𝑓(𝑥) = ∞, lim + 𝑓(𝑥) = −∞, lim 𝑓(𝑥) does not exist
𝑥→−4 − 𝑥→−4 𝑥→−4

1.2. Evaluating Limits Through Graphs 35