Continuity

1.
 Continuity

GENERAL INTRODUCTION:
Function is said to be continuous at x = a if while travelling along the graph
of the function and in crossing over the point at x = a either from Left to
Right or from Right to Left one does not have to lift pen. In case one has to
lift his pen the graph of the function is said to have break or discontinuous
at x=a.
Different type of situations which may up at x=a along the graph can be:

FORMULATIVE DEFINITION OF CONTINUITY:

A function f(x) is said to be continuous at x = a,

If Lim f ( x ) = f ( a ) exists and equal to f(a).
x →a

⇒ Lim f ( a − h) = Lim f ( a + h) = f ( a ) = a finite quantity

h→ 0 h→ 0

i.e. LHL at x = a = RHL at x = a  = value of f(x) at x = a = a finite quantity.

Continuity

2.
NOTE:
(i) Continuity at x = a ⇒ existence of limit at x = a, but not the converse.
(ii) Continuity at x = a ⇒ f is well defined at x = a but not the converse.
(iii) Discontinuity at x = a is meaningful to talk if in the immediate
neighbourhood of x=a, i.e., the function has a graph in the immediate
neighbourhood of x = a, not necessarity at x = a.
(iv) Continuity is always talk in the domain of function and hence
1 1
f (x) = , ,  tanx are all continuous functions but if you want to
x−1 x
1 1
talk of discontinuity then we can say is discontinuous at x = 1,
x−1 x
is discontinuous at x=0.
Note that all rational functions are continuous. Because continuity is
always talk in the domain of f(x).
(v) Point function are continuous.
e.g.   1 − x + x − 1, x + −x  
(vi) Inverse of a discontinuous function can be continuous.
 1 + x2     if x > 0

()
e.g.  f x = 0     if x = 0  is discontinuous at x = 0 but its

( )
 − 1 + x    if x < 0
2

inverse function

 x − 1    if x > 1
()
 f x =  0         if x = 0 which is a continuous function and its
−1


( )
 − − 1 + x   if x < −1

graph is as shown.

f-1(x)

∘
-1
• ∘ • x
0 1
∘

 
Continuity

3.
 CONTINUTY IN INTERVAL:
(a) A function f is said to be continuous in (a, b) if f is continuous at each
and every point ∈ (a, b).
(b) A function f is said to be continuous in a closed interval [a, b] if:
(i)  f is continuous in the open interval (a, b) and
(ii)  f is right continuous at ‘a’
  i.e. Lim+ f ( x ) = f ( a ) = a finite quantity.
x →a

(iii)  f is left continuous at ‘b’ i.e.  Lim− f ( x ) = f (b ) = a finite quantity.

x →b

Note:

It should be remembered that all polynomial functions, logarithmic

functions, exponential functions, trigonometric functions, inverse circular
functions, and modulus functions are continuous in their domain.

REASONS OF DISCONTINUITY:
A function can be discontinuous due to the following reasons.
(i)

Lim f ( x ) does not exist (f(a) may or may not be defined)

x →a

i.e. Lim  f ( a + h) ≠ Lim  f ( a − h)

h→ 0 h→ 0

Ex. (a) f(x) = [x] is discontinuous at all integer points; f(x) = sgn(x) is
discontinuous at x = 0.
x
(b) f(x) = is discontinuous at x = 1.
x−1
(ii)

Lim f ( x ) exist but is not equal to f(a) i.e.,

x →a

Lim f ( a + h) = Lim  f ( a − h) ≠ f ( a )
h→ 0 h→ 0

 πx
 ( 1 − x ) tan 2  if x ≠ 1
Ex. f ( x ) = 
π    if x = 1
 2
 πx  h 2
Lim f ( x ) = Lim 1 ( − x ) tan   = Lim  =
 2  h→0 tan  πh  π
Continuity

x →1 x →1
 
 2 

4.
⇒ () () ()
lim f x ≠ f 1 ⇒ f x is discontinuous at x = 1.
x→ 1

(iii)

f(a) is not defined

1
Ex. f ( x ) =
x−1
Q.1 What value must be assigned to k so that the function f(x) is continuous at x=4?
 x4 − 256
 ,x ≠ 4
f (x) =  x − 4

 k, x=4

 x4 − 256
 ,x ≠ 4
Sol: f ( x ) =  x − 4

k, x=4

( )
 x2 + 16 ( x − 4 )( x + 4 )
 ,x ≠ 4
f (x) =  ( x − 4)

 k, x=4

f(x) will be continuous for k = 256

because lim f ( x ) = 256
x →4

 sinax2
 ,x ≠ 0
Q.2 Let f ( x ) =  x
2
. For what values of a, f(x) is continuous at x=0.
3 + 1 , x = 0
 4 4a

 sinax2
 ,x ≠ 0
Sol: f ( x ) =  x
2

3 + 1 , x = 0
 4 4a

lim  f ( x ) = a = f ( 0 )
x →0

3 1
+ =a
4 4a
3a + 1 = 4a2  ⇒  4a2 − 3a − 1 = 0
Continuity

⇒ 4a2 − 4a + a − 1 = 0

5.
 ⇒ 4a ( a − 1) + 1 ( a − 1) = 0
1
⇒ a = 1, −
4


( )
cot2 x
 cosx x≠0
Q.3 f ( x ) =  −1 find whether f(x) is continuous at x = 0 or not.
e 2 if x=0


Sol: lim  f ( x ) = lim ( cosx )

cot2 x

x →0 x →0

− ( 1−cosx ) x2 −1
lim ( cosx − 1)cot2 x lim
=e x →0
=e x →0 x2 tan2 x
= e 2 = f ( 0 ) ⇒ f ( x ) is continuous at x = 0.

(
 ex − 1 3 cosec x
 )
     x  ≠ 0
()
()
Q.4 If f x =  ln 1 + x2 ( )
is continuous, find b.

b                         x = 0
3
 ex − 1 
( )
e − 1 cosec ( x )  
3
x
 x  . x  = 1 = f 0
Sol: lim = lim   ( )
x →0
ln 1 + x2 ( x →0
)
ln 1 + x2  sinx  ( )
x 2

∴ b = 1.

Q.5 Find the values of ‘a’ and ‘b’ so that the function
 π
 x + a 2 sin x      0≤x<
 4
π π
f (x ) =  2x cot x + b ≤ x < is continuous in [0, π]
 4 2

a cos 2x − b sin x π
  ≤ x < π   
 2

π π π π
Sol: f(x) is continuous in the interval 0 ≤ x <
,   < x < , < x ≤ π .
4 4 2 2
π π
We need to make the function continuous at x = ,   
4 2
π π
For continuity at x = ,  lim− f ( x ) = lim+ f ( x ) = f  
4 x → 
 π  
x →
π 
 4
 
 4   4 
Continuity

6.
 π
( ( )
lim − x + a 2 sin x = lim +  2x cot
π π
x +b ) = f  
 4
x →  x → 
4 4

π π π π π π

⇒ + a 2 sin   = 2.   .  cot   + b = 2 . cot   + b
4 4 4 4 4  4
π π π
⇒ + a = + b ⇒ a − b = …(1)
4 2 4
π π
For continuity at x = , lim− f ( x ) = lim+ f ( x ) = f  
2 x → π  π 
x →  2
 
 2   2 

π
⇒  π− 
( )  π+ 
(
lim 2x cot x + b = lim a cos 2x − b sin x = a cos π − b sin ) 2
x→  x→ 
 2  2

⇒ 0 + b = -a -b ⇒ a + 2b = 0 …(2)
From equation (1) and (2)
π −π
a= ,b =  .
6 12

 1 − cos4x        if     x < 0
 x2

Q.6 f ( x ) =  a                    if     x = 0 Determine ‘a’ if possible so that the

 x
     if     x > 0

 16 +   x   − 4
function is continuous at x = 0.
1 −  cos4x
( )
Sol: f 0− = Lim− f ( x ) = Lim−
x →0 x →0 x2
=8

x.  16 + x + 4 
x
( )
f 0 +
= Lim+ f ( x ) = Lim+
x →0 x →0
= Lim+
x →0

16 + x − 16

16 + x − 4

= Lim+
x →0
( )
16 + x + 4 = 8

( ) ( )
f 0− = f 0+ = 8 = f ( 0 ) ⇒ a = 8 .
Continuity

7.
  a



1 + sinx ( )
sinx        for     −
π
6
<x<0

()
Q.7 f x =  b              for     x = 0 Find ‘a’ and ‘b’ if f is continuous at x=0.
 tan2x
 e tan3x            π
for     0 < x <
 6
a

x →0
()
Sol: lim− f x = Lim
x →0
1 + sinx ( ) sinx
= ea
tan2x tan2x 3x 2 2
Lim . .
lim+ f ( x ) = Lime tan3x
= ex → 0 2x tan3x 3
= e3
+

+
x →0 x →0

2 2
2  
∴  ea = b = e 3 ⇒ a = ,b = e 3 
3

(
 e2x + 1 − x + 1 ex + e− x

) (
     if     x ≠   0
)( )
Q.8 Let f x =  () x ex − 1 ( )

 k                                    if    x = 0

if f(x) is continuous at x = 0 then k is equal to

1 3
(A) (B) 1 (C) (D) 2
2 2

Sol: k = Lim
(e 2x
) (
+ 1 − ( x + 1) ex + e− x )
x →0
x ( e − 1)
x

By L Hospital Rule

= Lim
(
2e2x  −  ( x +  1) ex  −  e− x −   ex  +  e− x ) ( ) 
x →0
(e x
)
− 1  +  xe x

By L Hospital Rule again

4 .e2x  −  ( x + 1) ( ex + e− x ) −  ( ex − e− x )  −  ( ex − e− x ) 4 − (2) − 0 − 0
= Lim = =1
x →0 e + ( x ⋅ e  +  1 ⋅ e
x x x
) 1 +  1

 x + 1        x   ≤ 1
Q.9 If f (x ) =  is continuous at x = 1, then find the value of a.
3 − ax      x > 1
2

 x + 1        x  ≤  1
()
Sol: f x =  ; lim− f x = lim+ f x = f 1 () () ()
3 − ax      x > 1 x→ 1
2
x→ 1
Continuity

2=3–a
⇒ a=1

8.
 x2 + kx + 1
Q.10 Let f ( x ) = . The interval(s) of all possible values of k for which f is continuous
x2 − k
for every x ∈ R , is
(A) ( −∞, −2 )  2,  0 )
(B)  − (C)  R − ( −2, 2) (D)  ( −2, 2)

Sol: B
x2 − k ≠ 0 ∀ x ∈ R
⇒ k < 0 …(1)
x2 + kx + 1 ≥ 0∀x ∈ R 
⇒ k2 − 4 ≤ 0 ⇒ −2 ≤ k ≤ 2 …(2)
k ∈ [-2, 0)
1 2
Q.11 The function f : R-{0} →R given by f ( x ) = − 2x , is continuous at x = 0, then find the
x e −1
value of f(0).
Sol: lim f ( x ) = f ( 0 )
x →0

1 2 1 1
= lim − 2x = lim −  
x →0 x e − 1 x →0 x x ( 1 + x + …)
1  1 + x + ... − 1 
= lim   = 1 = f (0)
x →0 x  1 + x + ... 

 1
( 1 + 3x ) x , x ≠ 0 . Discuss the continuity of f(x) at (i)x = 0, (ii) x = 1.
Q.12 Let f ( x ) = 
 e , x=0
3

1 1
( 1+ 3x − 1)
lim f ( x ) = lim ( 1 + 3x ) x = ex →0 x = e3 = f ( 0 )
lim
Sol: (i)
x →0 x →0

hence continuous at x = 0
(ii) lim f ( x ) = 4 = f ( 1)
x→1

hence continuous at x = 1

 sin x + sin 5x π
   if x ≠ −
4 Find k if f is continuous at x = − π
()
Q.13 f x =  cos x + cos 5x
π 4
 k               if x = −
 4
1

(A) 1 (B) –1 (C) 0 (D) −
2
Continuity

Ans. A

9.
  sin x + sin 5x π
   if x ≠ −
()
Sol: f x =  cos x + cos 5x 4
k                if x = − π
 4
sin x +  sin5x
k = lim    
−π cos x +  cos 5x
x→
4

2 sin 3x cos 2x
k = lim   = 1 
−π 2 cos 3x cos 2x
x→
4

(
 x2 + 3x − 1 tanx

)   if x ≠ 0 ; then find the value of k if f(x) is
Q.14 Let f x = () x2 + 2x
k                      if x = 0 

continuous at x = 0.


(
 x2 + 3x − 1 tanx )   if x ≠ 0 ; k = lim (x + 3x − 1) tanx
2

()
Sol: f x =  x + 2x
2

 k                     if x = 0 
x →0
( x + 2) x

−1
so k =
2

Q.15 Which of the following functions is not continuous ∀x∈R?

5

e +1
x
 22x + 1  7
(A) 2sinx + 3 (B)   (C)  3x    (D) sgnx + 1 
ex + 3 2 + 5
Ans. D
Sol: (A) 2sinx + 3 is always defined. Hence continuous
ex + 1 ex + 3 2 2
(B) = x − x = 1− x  
e +3 e +3 e +3
x
e +3
Which is always defined, hence continuous,
5
 22x + 1  7
(C)  3x   
2 + 5
Always defined and continuous.
(D) sgnx + 1 
sgnx + 1 ≥ 0
sgnx ≥ –1 ⇒ sgnx = 0, 1, –1 that is discontinuous at x = 0.
Hence option D is correct.
Continuity

10.
  a + 3 cos x
 ,       x ≠ 0
 x2
Q.16 Let f ( x ) =  . If f(x) is continuous at x = 0, then find
 π 
 b tan 
  [ x + 3]  , x = 0
 
a and b, where [.] denotes the greatest integer function.
 a + 3 cos x
 , x≠0
 x2
Sol: f ( x ) =   
 b tan  π  , x = 0
 
  [ x + 3] 

lim  f ( x ) = f ( 0 ) = b 3
x →0

a + 3 cos x
lim = b 3  ⇒ for a = –3 we get
x →0 x2
x 
( −3)  2 sin 2
   
2  3
lim  =b 3 ⇒ − =b 3
x →0 x2
2
4 
4
3
b=−    and a = –3
2

 x4 − 5x2 + 4
 , x ≠ 1, −2
Q.17 Discuss the continuity of f x =

 () (x − 1)(x + 2)
 6, x=1
 12, x = −2


Sol: lim+ f ( x ) = lim

(x 2
)(
− 1 x2 − 4 ) = lim ( x − 1)( x + 1)( x − 2)( x + 2)
x→1 x→1 +
( x − 1)( x + 2) x → 1+ ( x − 1)( x + 2)
= -2 ≠ f(1)
hence discontinuous.
(x − 1)(x + 1)(x − 2)(x + 2) = 0 ≠ f −2
()
lim+ f x = lim+ ( )
x →−2 x →−2 (x − 1)(x + 2)
hence discontinuous.
Continuity

11.
 Q.18 Find the points of discontinuity of the following functions.
1
(i) f ( x ) =
2sinx − 1
1
Sol: f ( x ) =
2sinx − 1
f(x) is discontinuous when 2 sinx-1=0
1 π 5π
⇒  sinx =   x = 2nπ +    or  x = 2nπ + ,  n ∈ Z
2 6 6

1
(ii) f ( x ) =
x −3 x +2
2

1
Sol: f ( x ) =
x2 − 3 x + 2
f(x) is discontinuous when x2 − 3 x + 2 = 0

⇒  | x |2 −3 x + 2 = 0 ⇒ ( x − 1)( x − 2) = 0 ⇒ x = 1, 2 ⇒ x = ±1, ±2
1
(iii) f ( x ) =
x + x2 + 1
4

1 1
Sol: f ( x ) = 4 =
x + x + 1  2 1 2 3
2

x +  +
 2 4
2
 1 3
Now, x4 + x2 + 1 =  x2 +  + ≥ 1 ∀ x ∈ R 
 2  4
⇒ f(x) is continuous ∀ x ∈ R
1
(iv) f ( x ) =  x−1 
 
1 − e x −2 
1
Sol: f ( x ) =  x−1 
 
1 − e x −2 
f(x) is discontinuous when x - 2 = 0, also
 x−1 
 
 x −2 
when 1 − e =0
 x−1 
 
⇒  x = 2 and e x −2  = 1 
x−1
⇒ x = 2 and = 0 
x−2
Continuity

⇒ x = 2 and x = 1

12.
(v) f ( x ) =  x   − x − 1 , where [.] represents the greatest integer function.

(
Sol: f ( x ) =  x   − x − 1 = x  − x  − 1 = 1 )
⇒ f(x) is continuous ∀ x ∈ R.

Q.19 If f ( x + y ) = f ( x ) .f ( y ) for all x and y ∈ R and f x = 1 + g x G x , where lim  g ( x ) = 0

() () () x →0

and limG ( x ) exist. Prove that f(x) is continuous for all x.

x →0

Sol: Let x = a, where ‘a’ is any real number.

lim f ( x ) = lim f ( a − h) = lim f ( a ) f ( −h)
x →a − h→ 0 h→ 0

(
= f ( a ) 1 + lim  g ( −h)  G ( −h) = f ( a )
h→ 0
)
() () ()
Similarly, lim+ f x = f a =  lim− f x so f(x) is continuous at x = a ∀ a ∈ R.
x →a x →a

 8x − 4x − 2x + 1
, x>0
Q.20 If f ( x ) =  x2 is continuous at x = 0, then find the value of k.
e sinx + 4x + kln4, x ≤ 0
x

 8x − 4x − 2x + 1
, x>0
Sol: f ( x ) =  x2
ex sinx + 4x + kln4, x ≤ 0
xlne 8 xlne 4 xlne 2
8x − 4x − 2x + 1 e −e −e +1
lim+ = lim+  
x →0 x 2
x →0 x 2

2 2 2
 ( x ln8)   ( x ln 4)   ( x ln2) 
 1 + x ln8 +   + ...  −  1 + x ln 4 + + ...  −  1 + x ln2 + + ...  + 1
 2!   2!   2! 
= lim+       .
x →0 x 2

( )
 ln8 2
( ln4 ) ( ln2 ) 
2 2

x (ln8 − ln4 − ln2 )  +  x   −  

2
 −   
 2 2 2 
= lim+   
x →0 x2
= 2(ln2)2
lim f ( x ) = 0 + 0 + kln4 = (ln2) (ln4)
x →0−

⇒ k = ln2.
Continuity

13.
 TYPES OF DISCONTINUITY:

REMOVABLE DISCONTINUITY:
Here lim  f ( x ) necessarily exists, but is either not equal to f(a) or f(a) is not
x →a

defined. In this case, therefore it is possible to redefine the function in

such a manner that lim  f ( x ) = f ( a ) and thus making the function continuous.
x →a

These discontinuities can be further classified as

(a) Missing point discontinuity:

Here lim  f ( x ) exists. But f(a) is not defined.
x →a

(b) Isolated point discontinuity:

Here lim  f ( x ) exists, also f(a) is defined but lim  f ( x ) ≠ f ( a )
x →a x →a

NON-REMOVABLE DISCONTINUTY
Here lim  f ( x ) does not exists and therefore it is not possible to redefine
x →a

the function in any manner to make it continuous. Such discontinuities can

be further classified into three fold.
(a) Finite type: Both limits finite and unequal.
In this case non-negative difference between the two limits is called the
Jump of discontinuity. A function having a finite number of jumps in a
given interval I is called a Piece Wise Continuous or Sectionally Continuous
function in this interval.
(b) Infinite type: At least one of the two limit are infinity.
(c) Oscillatory: Limits oscillate between two finite quantities.
Continuity

14.
Q.1 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for 9
( x − 1) (9 − x )
2

f (x) = ,   x ≠ 1 8
x−1
Sol: at x = 1, f(1) is not defined. -3 3
Hence f(x) has missing point of discontinuity at x = 1. 0 1

Q.2 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for

 0  if   x ∈ I
()
f x = x  +  −x  = 
−1  if   x ∉ I
Sol: f(x) has isolated point of discontinuity
at all integral points.

Q.3 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for 4

x2 − 4
f (x) = ,   x ≠ 2
x−2
Sol: f(2) is not defined. Hence, f(x) has missing 2
0
point of discontinuity at x = 2

Q.4 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for

 π
 0      if  x = 2nπ +
() ( ) (( )(
f x = sgn cos 2x − 2 sin x + 3 = sgn 2 2 + sin x 1 − sin x )) =
 +1   if x ≠  2nπ + π
2

 2
Sol: f(x) has an isolated point discontinuity at y
π
x = 2nπ +
2 ∘ 1 ∘

Q.5 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for •

-3π/2 O
•
π/2 5π/2
x
sinx
f (x) = ,x ≠ 0
x
1
Sol: f(0) is not defined. f(x) has missing point
of discontinuity at x = 0. 2
π
0
−π π π π
−
Continuity

2 2

15.
 sinx
Q.6 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for at x = 0.
x

f(0+ ) = 1
sinx
Sol: lim   ; jump = 2
x →0 x
f(0− ) = −1
Hence, it has finite type non removable discontinuity.

1 1
Q.7 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = sin and f ( x ) = cos at x = 0.
x x
1 1
and f ( x ) = cos at x = 0 oscillates between -1 & 1.
Sol: f ( x ) = sin
x x
Hence, it has oscillatory non removable discontinuity.

x 
Q.8 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for   at x = 2.
x

f(2+ ) = 1
x  1
Sol: lim    ; jump =
x →2 x 2
1
f(2− ) =
2
Hence, it has finite type non removable discontinuity.

x
Q.9 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) =   at x = 1.
1− x

f(1+ ) = −∞
x
Sol: f ( x ) =   at x=1
1− x
f(1− ) = +∞

Hence, it has infinite type non removable discontinuity.

 1 
 3 
(
Q.10 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) =  1 + sin ln x  at x = 0, )
where [.] represents greatest integer function.
 1 
( )
Sol: f ( x ) =  1 + sin ln x  at x = 0 oscillates between 0 and 1.
Continuity

 3 
Hence, it has oscillatory non removable discontinuity.
16.
 π
Q.11 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = 2tanx at x = .
2
π+
f� � =0
π
Sol: f ( x ) = 2tanx at x = 2
2
𝜋𝜋 −
f� � =∞
2

Hence, it has infinite type non removable discontinuity.

1
Q.12 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for f ( x ) = at x = 0.
x2

f(0+ ) = ∞
1
()
Sol: f x =
x2
at x = 0
f(0− ) = ∞

Hence, it has infinite type non removable discontinuity.

Q.13 Discuss the nature of discontinuity for the following functions:

1
(i) f ( x ) =
x−1
1
Sol: f ( x ) =
x−1
x = 1 is the vertical asymptote and hence has non-removable discontinuity.

x3 − x
(ii) f ( x ) =
x2 − 1

Sol: f ( x ) = =
2
(
x3 − x x x − 1 )
x2 − 1 x2 − 1
If f(1) = 1 and f(–1) = –1 then f(x) is continuous.
Hence, removable discontinuity and missing point discontinuity.

x−1
(iii) f ( x ) =
x−1
x−1
Sol: f ( x ) =
x−1
Continuity

lim+ f ( x ) ≠ lim− f ( x )  
x→1 x→1

Hence, non-removable discontinuity and also jump of discontinuity.

17.
  1 
(iv) f ( x ) = sin  
 x − 1
 1 
Sol: f ( x ) = sin  
 x − 1
At x=1,
lim f ( x ) oscillates between -1 to 1.
x→1

Hence, non-removable discontinuity and oscillating discontinuity.

Q.14 State the number of points of discontinuities and discuss the nature of discontinuity
1
for the function f ( x ) = .
ln x

 1
        if x > 0,    x ≠  1
 lnx
()
Sol: f x = 
1
function is obviously discontinuous at x = 0, 1, –1, as it
     if x < 0,   x ≠ −1
ln −x ( )
is not defined.

lim f ( x ) = 0

x →0+  
 Limit exists at x=0. Hence there exists removable discontinuity at x = 0.
lim− f ( x ) = 0
x →0   
(Missing point discontinuity)

lim f ( x ) = ∞ 

x → 1+  
 Limit DNE. Hence non removable discontinuity (infinite type) x = 1
lim− f ( x ) = −∞ 
x→1   

x →−1+  
()
lim f x = −∞ 

 Limit DNE. Hence non removable discontinuity (infinite type) at x = –1
x →−1  
()
lim− f x = ∞ 

Continuity

18.
THEOREMS ON CONTINUITY:
T-1:

Sum, difference, product and quotient of two continuous functions is

always a continuous function.
f (x)
However,  h ( x ) = is continuous at x = a only if g(a) ≠ 0.
g (x)

IMPORTANT NOTES:
(a)

If f(x) is continuous and g(x) is discontinuous then f(x) + g(x) is a

discontinuous function.

Proof: Let f(x) + g(x) is a continuous function.

( )
so, lim f ( x ) + g ( x ) = f ( a ) + g ( a ) …(1)
x →a

Also, f(x) is a continuous function lim  f ( x ) = f ( a ) …(2)

x →a

From (1) and (2)

lim  g ( x ) = g ( a ) ⇒ g(x) is continuous at x = a.
x →a

But given g(x) is discontinuous at x = a.

This is a contradiction.
Hence our supposition is wrong.
⇒ f(x) + g(x) will be discontinuous function.

(b)

If f(x) is continuous & g(x) is discontinuous at x = a then product function

φ ( x ) = f ( x ) . g ( x ) is not necessarily discontinuous at x = a.

 1
sin x≠0
Q.1 If f ( x ) = x & g ( x ) =  x  then discuss the continuity for f ( x ) . g ( x ) .

0 x=0

  1
 x sin   ,   x ≠  0
() ()
Sol: f x . g x =   x is continuous at x = 0.
Continuity

0,              x = 0


19.
  2x − 1 
Q.2 If f ( x ) = cos   π and g(x) = [x] ([.] denotes the greatest integer function) then
 2 
discuss the continuity of f(x). g(x).
 2x − 1 
Sol: f ( x ) = cos   π is continuous at x = 1.
 2 
g(x) = [x] is discontinuous at x = 1.
 2x − 1  π
lim+ cos   π. [ x ] = cos . ( 1) = 0
x →1  2  2
 2x − 1  π
Limcos   π. [ x ] = cos . ( 0) = 0
x →1−  2  2
f ( 1) = 0

⇒ f(x) . g(x) is continuous at x = 1.

(c)

If f(x) and g(x) both are discontinuous at x = a then the product function
φ ( x ) = f ( x ) .g ( x ) is not necessarily discontinuous at x = a.

1 x ≥ 0
E.g. f ( x ) = −g ( x ) = 
 −1 x < 0
∴ f(x) g(x) = -1 ∀ x∈ R which is continuous function.

 x + 1 ;           x <  0
 x + 1 ;     x < 0
()
Q.3 If f x =  ()
  and  g x = 
 x;          x ≥ 0  − x + 2 + 3;    x ≥ 0 
discuss continuity of f(x) + g(x).
Sol: Since f(x) is discontinuous at x = 0 and g(x) is continuous at x = 0, then f(x) + g(x) is
discontinuous at x = 0.
At all other places, both functions are continuous. Hence their sum will be continuous
⇒ f(x) + g(x) is discontinuous at x = 0 only.
Continuity

20.
T-2: Intermediate value theorem:
If f is continuous on [a, b] and f(a) ≠ f(b) then for any value c ∈ (f(a), f(b)), there is at least
one number x0 in (a, b) for which f(x0) = c.

Figure (i) Figure (ii)

y y
f(b)

c ∘

f(a) f(b)

x a x
0 a b 0 b
f(a)
Figure (iii) Figure (iv)

Note:

(1) Continuity through the interval [a, b] is essential for the validity of this
theorem.

(2) In figure-(iv), f(a) and f(b) are of opposite sign but f(x) has no root in
Continuity

(a, b) as f is discontinuous.

21.
 a +b
Q.1 Show that the function f ( x ) = ( x − a ) ( x − b)
2 2
+ x takes the value  for some value of
2
x ∈ a,b .

Sol: f ( x ) = ( x − a ) ( x − b)
2 2
+ x ; as f(x) is continuous on [a, b] and f(a)= a and f(b) = b, then for

any value c ∈ (a, b), there is at least one number x0 in (a, b) for which

a +b
f ( x0 ) = c = .
2

Q.2 Suppose that f(x) is continuous in [0, 1] and f(0) = 0, f(1) = 0. Prove that f(c) = 1 - 2c2 for
some c ∈ (0, 1).
Sol: Let g(x) = f(x) + 2x2 – 1 is a continuous function in (0, 1).
g(0) = f(0) – 1 = -1 and g(1) = f(1) + 1 = 1 then there exists some c ∈ (0, 1) such that
g(x) = 0.
f(c) = 1 - 2c2.

T-3: Extreme value Theorem:

If f is continuous on [a, b] then f takes on, a least value ‘m’ and a greatest value ‘M’ on
this interval.

M M

m
m
ac d b a b
Minimum value ‘m’ occurs Minimum value ‘m’ occurs
at x=c and maximum value at the end point x=a and
M occurs at x=d where maximum value M occurs
c, d∈(a, b) inside the interval
M occurs inside the interval
Note:

To see that continuity is necessary for the extreme value

theorem to be true refer the graph shown.
There is a discontinuity at x = c. The function has a
minimum value at the left end point x = a and f has no M
m
maximum value.
a
Continuity

x
=
c
22.
PROPERTIES OF FUNCTION CONTINUOUS IN [a, b]:
(i) If a function f is continuous on a closed interval [a, b] then it is bounded.
(ii) A continuous function whose domain is some closed interval must have its range also
in closed interval.
(iii) If f is continuous and onto on [a, b] and is one-one then f −1 (from the range of f) is
also continuous.
(iv) If f(a) and f(b) posses opposite signs then ∃ at least one solution of the equation
f(x) = 0 in the open interval (a, b) provided f is continuous in [a, b].

Q.1 Let f be a continuous function defined onto on [0, 1] with range [0, 1]. Show that there
is some c in (0, 1) such that f(c) = 1 - c.
Sol: Consider g(x) = f(x) – 1 + x  g(x) is continuous in [0, 1]
g(0) = f(0) -1 ≤ 0 [as f(0) ≤ 1]
g(1) = f(1) ≥ 0 [as f(1) ≥ 0]
Hence, g(0) and g(1) have values of opposite signs.
Hence, there exists at least one c ∈ (0, 1) such that g(c) = 0.
∴ g(c) = f(c) – 1 + c = 0; f(c) = 1 – c.

Q.2 Let f be continuous on the interval [0, 1] to R such that f(0) = f(1). Prove that there exists
 1  1
a point c in 0,  such that f ( c ) = f  c +  .
 2  2

 1   1 
Sol: Consider a continuous function g ( x ) = f  x +  − f ( x )  g is continuous  x ∈  0, 2 
 2   
 1  1
⇒ g ( 0 ) = f   − f ( 0 ) = f   − f ( 1) [as f(0) = f(1)]
2 2
 1  1   1 
and g   = f ( 1) − f   = − f   − f ( 1) 
2 2  2 
 1
Since g is continuous and g(0) and g   have opposite signs, hence the equation
2
 1
g(x) = 0 must have atleast one root in 0,  .
 2
 1  1
Hence, for some c ∈ 0,  , g(c) = 0 ⇒ f  c +  = f ( c ) .
 2  2
Continuity

23.
 Q.3 Let f : 0,  1 → 0,  1 be a continuous function. Then prove y
f(x) = x for at least one x ∈ [0, 1]. y=x
1
Sol: Clearly, 0 ≤ f(0) ≤ 1 and 0 ≤ f(1) ≤ 1. As f(x) is continuous,
f(x) attains all the values between f(0) and f(1) and the graph
will have no breaks. So, the graph will cut the line y = x f(0) f(1)
atleast at one point x where 0 ≤ x ≤ 1. So, f(x) = x at that
point.

O 1 x

CONTINUITY OF SPECIAL TYPES OF FUNCTIONS:

Continuity Of Functions In Which Greatest Integer
Function Is Involved:
f(x) = [x] is discontinuous when x is an integer.
Similarly, f(x)=[g(x)] is discontinuous when g(x) is an
integer, but this is true only when g(x) is monotonic (g(x)
is strictly increasing or strictly decreasing).

For example, f ( x ) =  x  is discontinuous when x is an

 
integer as x strictly increasing (monotonic function).

3 ∘
4 ∘
2 ∘
1 ∘ 3 ∘
∘1 4 9 16

2 ∘
f(x) = [x2], x ≥ 0 is discontinuous when x2 is an integer, as x2
is strictly increasing for x ≥ 0.
Now consider, f(x)=[sinx], x ∈ [0, 2π], g(x)=sinx is not monotonic
1 ∘
in [0, 2π].
∘1 √2 √3 2√5
Continuity

24.
 For this type of function, points of discontinuity can determined by graphical
3π
methods. We can note that at x = , sinx takes integral value -1, but at
2
3π
x= , f(x) = [sinx] is continuous.
2

Q.1 Discuss the continuity of following functions ([.] represents the greatest integer
function.
(i) f(x) = [logex]
Sol: log e x  function is a monotonically increasing function.
Hence f(x) = [logex] is discontinuous, where logex = k or x = ek, k ∈ Z  
Thus f(x) is discontinuous at x = ...e−2 , e−1 , e0 , e1 , e2 , ... 

(ii) f ( x ) = sin−1x 

Sol: sin−1x is a monotonically increasing function.

Hence, f ( x ) = sin−1x  is discontinuous where  sin−1x is an integer.
⇒ sin–1x = –1, 0, 1  or  x = –sin1, 0, sin1

 2 
(iii) f ( x ) =  2
,x ≥ 0
1 + x 
2
Sol: , x ≥ 0, is a monotonically decreasing function.
1 + x2
 2  2
Hence, f ( x ) =  2
, x ≥ 0 is discontinuous, when  is an integer.
1 + x  1 + x2
2
Continuity

⇒ = 1, 2
1 + x2
⇒ x = 1, 0
25.
 Q.2 Draw the graph and find the points of discontinuity for f(x) = [2cosx],
x ∈ [0, 2π], ([.] represents the greatest integer function).
Sol: f(x) = [2 cosx]
Clearly from the graph given in figure f(x) is discontinuous at points
where, 2cosx = ± 1, 0, ± 2
y

(0,2)
2• •
1∘ • • ∘y=1
2π 4π
3 π 3
∘π • •3π 5∘π x
X′ O π 2π
3 2 3
2
-1 ∘ • • ∘ y=-1

-2 ∘ ∘ y=-2
Y'

π π 2π 4π 3π 5π
from graph x = 0, , , , , , , 2π
3 2 3 3 2 3
Q.3 Draw the graph and discuss the continuity of f(x) = [sinx + cosx],
x ∈ [0, 2π], where [.] represents the greatest integer function.
Sol: f(x) = [sinx + cosx] = [g(x)] where g(x) = sinx + cosx

1• • •
5π 3π
π 4 2
∘π • • ∘ x
𝑥𝑥′ O π 3π 7π 2π
4 2 4
4
-1 ∘ • • ∘

-2 ∘ ∘
Continuity

𝑦𝑦′

26.
 π π
g ( 0) = 1, g   = 2, g   = 1
4 2
 3π   5π 
g   = 0, g ( π ) = −1, g   = − 2
 4   4 
 3π   7π 
g   = −1, g   = 0, g ( 2π ) = 1
 2   4 
π 3π 3π 7 π
Clearly from the graph given in figure f(x) is discontinuous at x = , , π, , , 2π  .
2 4 2 4

( )  sin x − 2 + a cos x − 2 . [.] denotes the greatest integer

 x−2 3
Q.4 If the function f ( x ) = 
 a 
( ) ( )
 
function which is continuous in [4, 6], then find the value of a.
Sol: sin(x - 2) and cos(x - 2) are continuous for all x.
Since [x] is not continuous at integer point.

So, f(x) is continuous in [4, 6] if 

( )  = 0 ∀ x ∈ [4, 6].
 x−2 3
 a 
 

Now ( x − 2) ∈ 8, 64  for x ∈ [4, 6].

3

⇒ a > 64 for 
( ) =0
 x−2 3
 a 
 

Continuity Of Functions Is Which Signum Function Is Involved:

We know that f(x) = sgn (x) is discontinuous at x = 0.
In general, f(x) = sgn(g(x)) is discontinuous at x = a if g(a) = 0.
Q.5 Discuss the continuity of
(
(i) f ( x ) = sgn x3 − x )
(
Sol: f ( x ) = sgn x3 − x )
Here x3 − x = 0 ⇒ x = 0, −1, 1 
Here f(x) is discontinuous at x=0, -1, 1

(ii) f(x) = sgn(2cosx – 1)

Sol: f(x) = sgn(2cosx – 1)
1  π
Here, 2 cos x – 1 = 0 ⇒ cosx = ⇒ x = 2nπ ±  
2  3
Continuity

n ∈ Z, where f(x) is discontinuous.

27.
 (
(iii) f ( x ) = sgn x2 − 2x + 3 )
Sol: f ( x ) = sgn ( x 2
− 2x + 3)

Here, x2 − 2x + 3 > 0 for all x.

Thus, f(x) = 1 for all x, hence continuous for all x.

Q.6 If f(x) = sgn(2sinx + a) is continuous for all x, then find the possible
values of a.
Sol: f(x) = sgn(2sinx + a) is continuous for all x.
Then 2 sin x + a ≠ 0 for any real x.
a
⇒ sinx  ≠ −
2
a
⇒ > 1   ⇒ a < −2  or a > 2
2

Continuity of Functions Involving Limit lim a n  :

n →∞

0,   0  ≤ a < 1

We know that lim a =  1,    a=1
n
n→∞
 ∞,   a>1


x2n − 1
Q.1 Discuss the continuity of f ( x ) = lim .
n→∞ x2n + 1
1  1,         x < −1
1 −   −1,    0 ≤ x2 < 
1  0,         x = −1
(x )
n
2
x2n − 1  
()
Sol: f x = lim
n→∞ x2n + 1
= lim
n→∞ 1
=  0,     x2 = 1 −1,   − 1 < x < 1
1 +     0,            x = 1
 1,    x > 1
2

(x ) 
n
2
 1,            x > 1
Thus, f(x) is discontinuous at x = ± 1.

Q.2 Discuss the continuity of f ( x ) = limcos2nx .

n→∞

(
Sol: f ( x ) = lim cos2 x )
n

n→∞

 0,   0 ≤ cos2 x < 1 0,       x  ≠  nπ,  n ∈ I 

 =
1,        cos x = 1  1,       x  =  n π, n ∈ I 
2

Hence, f(x) is discontinuous when x = nπ, n ∈ I.

Continuity

28.
Functions Continuous Only At Some Points And Defined Everywhere
(Discrete Point Continuity):

x,        if x ∈ Q
Q.1 Discuss the continuity for f ( x ) =  .
 0,    if x ∉ Q

Sol: If x → 0+ then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0+ = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0+ = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

If x → 0− then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0− = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0− = 0 ( x ∉ Q )
Hence f(x) is continuous at x = 0 .

x,        if x ∈ Q
Q.2 Discuss the continuity for f ( x ) =  .
 −x,    if x ∉ Q

Sol: f(x) is continuous at some x = a, where x = - x or x = 0 .

If x → 0+ then x may be rational or irrational
( ) ( )
⇒ f 0+ = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0+ = −0 = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

If x → 0 then x may be rational or irrational

−

( ) ( )
⇒ f 0− = 0 ( x ∈ Q ) or f 0− = −0 = 0 ( x ∉ Q )

Hence f(x) is continuous at x = 0 .

x,        if x ∈ Q
Q.3 Discuss the continuity for f ( x ) =  .
1 − x,    if x ∉ Q
1
Sol: f(x) is continuous at some x = a, where x = 1 - x or x = .
2
1
If x → then x may be rational or irrational
2+
 1  1 1 1
⇒ f  +  =  or 1 − =  
2  2 2 2
1
If x → then x may be rational or irrational
2−
 1  1 1 1
⇒ f  −  =  or 1 − =  
2  2 2 2
1
Hence f(x) is continuous at x =
Continuity

29.
 For some other point, say, x = 1
⇒ f(1) = 1
If x → 1 then x may be rational or irrational.
⇒ f(1) = 1 or 1 – 1 = 0
Hence, f(1) oscillates between 1 and 0, which causes discontinuity at x = 1.
 1
Similarly, f(x) oscillates between two numbers for all x ∈ R −   .
 2

x ,    if x ∈ Q
2
Q.4 Discuss the continuity for f ( x ) =  .
 1,    if x ∉ Q
Sol: f(x) is continuous at some x = a, where x2 = 1 or x = ±1.
For x = 1,
If x → 1+ then x may be rational or irrational

( )
⇒ f 1+ = ( 1) = 1 ( x ∈ Q ) or f ( 1+ ) = 1 ( x ∉ Q )
2

If x → 1− then x may be rational or irrational

( ) ( )
⇒ f 1− = ( 1)  ( x ∈ Q ) or f 1− = 1 ( x ∉ Q )
2

Hence, f(x) is continuous at x = 1.

For x = –1,
If x → −1
+
( ) then x may be rational or irrational
⇒ f ( −1 ) = ( −1) = 1 ( x ∈ Q ) or f ( −1 ) = 1 ( x ∉ Q )
+ 2 +

If x → (−1 ) then x may be rational or irrational

−

( ) ( ) (
2
) ( )
⇒ f −1¯ = −1   x ∈ Q or f −1¯ = 1  x ∉ Q ( )
Hence, f(x) is continuous at x = –1.

Continuity of Composite Functions:

If f is continuous at x = a and g is continuous at x = f(a) then the composite

function g[f(x)] is continuous at x = a.

xsinx xsinx
e.g. f ( x ) = and g(x) = |x| are continuous at x = 0, hence the composite gof(x)= 2
x +2
2
x +2

will also be continuous at x = 0.

Continuity

30.
 x+1 1
Q.1 If f ( x ) = and g ( x ) = , then discuss the continuity of f(x), g(x) and fog(x).
x−1 x−2

Sol:
x+1
(a) f ( x ) =
x−1
∴ f(x) is not defined at x = 1. ∴ f is discontinuous at x = 1.
1
(b) g ( x ) =
x−2
g(x) is not defined at x = 2. ∴ g is discontinuous at x = 2.
(c) Now, fog will be discontinuous at
x = 2 [point of discontinuity of g(x)] and when
g(x) = 1 (when value of g(x) is point of discontinuity of f(x))
1
If g(x)=1 ⇒ = 1  ⇒ x = 3 .
x−2
∴ fog (x) is discontinuous at x=2 and x=3.
1
+1
Also, fog ( x ) = x − 2  
1
−1
x−2
Here fog (2) is not defined.
1
+1
1+ x −2
lim fog ( x ) = lim x − 2 = lim = 1 
x →2 x →2 1 x →2 1 − x + 2
−1
x−2
∴ fog(x) is discontinuous at x = 2 and it has a removable discontinuity at x=2.
For checking continuity at x = 3.
1
+1
lim+ fog ( x ) = lim+ x − 2 = −∞
x →3 x →3 1
−1
x−2
1
+1
lim− fog ( x ) = lim− x − 2 = +∞
x →3 x →3 1
−1
x−2
∴ fog(x) is discontinuous at x = 3 and has non removable discontinuity at x = 3.
Continuity

31.