Mathematics

Mathematics

Problem

For the function f(x)=2(x−1)2f(x)=\dfrac{2}{(x-1)^{2}}, explain why the discontinuity at x=1x=1 is classified as an infinite discontinuity.
Intuitive explanation

The key is to examine what happens to f(x)f(x) as xx approaches 1 from either side. As xx gets closer to 1, the denominator (x−1)2(x-1)^2 shrinks toward zero, but stays positive, so the fraction 2(x−1)2\frac{2}{(x-1)^2} grows without bound. Since the function values shoot off to infinity rather than approaching a finite limit or having a removable gap, this is an infinite discontinuity—the function literally cannot be "fixed" by redefining it at a single point.

Intuitive explanation

The key is to examine what happens to f(x)f(x) as xx approaches 1 from either side. As xx gets closer to 1, the denominator (x−1)2(x-1)^2 shrinks toward zero, but stays positive, so the fraction 2(x−1)2\frac{2}{(x-1)^2} grows without bound. Since the function values shoot off to infinity rather than approaching a finite limit or having a removable gap, this is an infinite discontinuity—the function literally cannot be "fixed" by redefining it at a single point.

Browse the problem library