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What is the epsilon-delta requirement for a multivariable limit at the origin?

The epsilon-delta definition requires that for every ε>0\varepsilon > 0, there exists a δ>0\delta > 0 such that every domain point sufficiently close to, but distinct from, the origin gives an output close to AA. This means uniform control of every nearby domain point, rather than just checking a few paths.

Conditions

  • The input is a point in the plane (x,y)(x,y).
  • The limit is evaluated as (x,y)→(0,0)(x,y) \to (0,0).
  • The function is defined on a domain containing a punctured neighborhood of the origin.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify the target limit value AA.
  2. For any given ε>0\varepsilon > 0, find a corresponding δ>0\delta > 0.
  3. Ensure that for all points (x,y)(x,y) in the domain satisfying 0<∥(x,y)∥<δ0 < \|(x,y)\| < \delta, the inequality ∣f(x,y)−A∣<ε|f(x,y) - A| < \varepsilon holds.
  4. Recognize that this condition must apply to every domain point in the punctured neighborhood, not just along specific paths.

Example

The script states: 'The epsilon-delta definition requires every domain point sufficiently close to, but distinct from, the origin to give an output close to A.' The card formula is ∀ε>0, ∃δ>0:0<∥(x,y)∥<δ⇒∣f(x,y)−A∣<ε\forall\varepsilon>0,\ \exists\delta>0:\quad 0<\|(x,y)\|<\delta\Rightarrow|f(x,y)-A|<\varepsilon.

Common misconceptions

  • Thinking that verifying a few plotted paths is sufficient to prove the limit exists; the script notes they 'cannot by themselves prove existence'.
  • Believing that checking all straight lines is enough; the video warns that 'Agreement along all straight lines alone need not prove one'.
  • Confusing the multivariable definition with the one-variable left/right limit consistency.

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Answers are generated from source material and independently checked. Consult the original video or creator if something is unclear.