Unit 2: Limit Laws

Lesson 2.4
Limits at Infinity
Contents
Introduction 1

Learning Objectives 2

Warm Up 3

Learn about It! 5

Limits at Infinity of Some Algebraic Functions 5
Limits at Infinity of Polynomial Functions 5
Limits at Infinity of Rational Functions 7
Limits at Infinity of Some Transcendental Functions 16
Limits at Infinity of Exponential Functions 16
Limits at Infinity of Logarithmic Functions 18

Key Points 23

Key Formulas 23

Check Your Understanding 25

Challenge Yourself 27

Photo Credits 27

Bibliography 28

Key to Try It! 28

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Lesson 2.4

Limits at Infinity

Introduction
Bacteria undergo a process called cell division where each cell divides, forming two daughter
cells. This makes bad bacteria multiply easily in a human body and cause harm if untreated.
What do you think will happen if bad bacteria continue multiplying each day in a human body
and are neglected over time?

In the previous lessons, you were able to determine the limit of a function 𝑓(𝑥) as
𝑥 approaches a real number. The value of the limit may or may not exist depending on the
value that 𝑥 approaches. What will be the value of the limit of the function as 𝑥 increases

2.4. Limits at Infinity 1

Unit 2: Limit Laws
without bound as what bacteria exhibit in the above situation? Let us discover more about
the limit of different types of function as 𝑥 increases or decreases without bound.
Learning Objectives
In this lesson, you should be able to do the
following:
● Illustrate limits at infinity of some algebraic
and transcendental functions.
● Compute the limits at infinity of some
algebraic and transcendental functions.
2.4. Limits at Infinity
DepEd Competencies
This lesson serves as an enrichment for
the following DepEd competencies:
• Apply the limit laws in evaluating
the limit of algebraic functions
(polynomial, rational, and radical)
(STEM_BC11LC-IIIa-4).
• Compute the limits of exponential,
logarithmic, and trigonometric
functions using table of values and
graphs of the function.
(STEM_BC11LC-IIIb-1).
2
Unit 2: Limit Laws

Warm Up

Going Beyond Limits 10 minutes

This activity will illustrate limits at infinity of some functions through table of values and
graphs.

Materials
● pen
● paper
● calculator
● laptop with internet connection

Procedure
1. This activity should be done in groups of five to seven students sharing a laptop.
2. Complete the table of values of each function below.
a. 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 2
𝒙 1 5 10 20 100 200
𝒇(𝒙)

𝒙 −1 −5 −10 −20 −100 −200

𝒇(𝒙)

1
b. 𝑔(𝑥) = 𝑥
𝒙 1 10 50 100 500 1 000
𝒈(𝒙)

𝒙 −1 −10 −50 −100 −500 −1 000

𝒈(𝒙)

2.4. Limits at Infinity 3

Unit 2: Limit Laws

c. ℎ(𝑥) = 2𝑥
𝒙 1 3 5 10 15 20
𝒉(𝒙)

𝒙 −1 −3 −5 −10 −15 −20

𝒉(𝒙)

3. Observe the table of values of each function as 𝑥 becomes infinitely large or small.
Verify your observation by graphing the function using the link below.

Desmos. “Graphing Calculator.”

Desmos. “Graphing Calculator.”
https://www.desmos.com/calculator, Accessed February 11,
2020.

4. Answer the guide questions individually.

Guide Questions
1. Which of the given functions are algebraic? transcendental?
2. How will you describe the values of each function as 𝑥 becomes infinitely large or
small?
3. Do the graphs verify the data in each table of values? In what way?

2.4. Limits at Infinity 4

Unit 2: Limit Laws

Learn about It!

In the Warm Up activity, you were able to intuitively verify the limits of 𝑓(𝑥), 𝑔(𝑥), and ℎ(𝑥) as
𝑥 approaches infinity through table of values and graphing. Let us verify if your observations
hold true for all similar functions.

Limits at Infinity of Some Algebraic Functions

Limits at Infinity of Polynomial Functions

The limits at infinity of polynomial functions depend on the end behaviors of their graphs. Let
us illustrate the limits at infinity of polynomial functions by analyzing their graphs.

Consider the graph of 𝑦 = 4𝑥 + 1.

Notice that as 𝑥 approaches positive infinity, 𝑦 extends to positive infinity. Meanwhile, as 𝑥

approaches negative infinity, 𝑦 extends to negative infinity. Based on this observation, we can
say that
lim (4𝑥 + 1) = ∞ and lim (4𝑥 + 1) = −∞.
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→−∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 5

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Let us consider the graph of another polynomial function 𝑦 = 𝑥 2 .

It could be seen from the graph that as 𝑥 approaches positive infinity, 𝑦 also extends to
positive infinity. Likewise, as 𝑥 approaches negative infinity, 𝑦 extends to positive infinity. We
can write these in symbols as

lim 𝑥 2 = ∞ and lim 𝑥 2 = ∞.

𝑥→∞ 𝑥→−∞

Based on the graphs above, we can determine the limit of a polynomial function at infinity by
identifying the end behavior of its graphs.

How does the limit at infinity of a polynomial

function depend on its end behavior?

2.4. Limits at Infinity 6

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Behaviors of the Graph of a Polynomial Function
Let 𝑃(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 be a polynomial function of degree 𝑛 and leading coefficient 𝑎 ≠ 0. We can
generalize the end behaviors of the graph of a polynomial function below.

1. If 𝒂 < 𝟎, the right-end of the graph is falling (negative infinity), while if 𝒂 > 𝟎, the right-
end of the graph is rising (positive infinity).
2. If 𝒏 is odd, the right and the left end of the graph are in opposite directions, while if 𝒏
is even, the right and the left end of the graph are in the same direction.

Based on these end behaviors, we can generalize the value of the limits at infinity of
polynomial functions of degree 𝑛 and leading coefficient 𝑎.

−∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒂 < 𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒂𝒙𝒏 = {
𝒙→±∞ ∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒂 > 𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧

∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒂 < 𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐝𝐝

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒂𝒙𝒏 = {
𝒙→−∞ −∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒂 > 𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐝𝐝

−∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒂 < 𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐝𝐝

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒂𝒙𝒏 = {
𝒙→∞ ∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒂 > 𝟎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐝𝐝

Limits at Infinity of Rational Functions

Unlike polynomial functions, rational functions differ in terms of end behaviors as they may
1
consist of one or more branches. Let us consider the simplest form of rational function 𝑦 = 𝑥

and verify its limit by analyzing its graph.

2.4. Limits at Infinity 7

Unit 2: Limit Laws

Notice that as 𝑥 approaches positive or negative infinity, 𝑦 becomes closer to the 𝑥-axis, but
1
will never intersect this line. The 𝑥-axis is the horizontal asymptote of 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥. Thus, we can

say that

𝟏
𝐥𝐢𝐦 = 𝟎.
𝒙→±∞ 𝒙

We will use this property to evaluate the limits at infinity of rational functions.

2.4. Limits at Infinity 8

Unit 2: Limit Laws

Remember
1
For any 𝑛 > 0, lim = 0.
𝑥→±∞ 𝑥 𝑛

Proof:
1 1 𝑛
lim = lim ( )
𝑥→±∞ 𝑥 𝑛 𝑥→±∞ 𝑥

1 𝑛
= ( lim )
𝑥→±∞ 𝑥

= 0𝑛
=0

Let’s Practice!
Example 1
1
Evaluate lim (9 − 𝑥 3 + 10𝑥 4 ).
𝑥→−∞ 2

Solution
Step 1: Identify the leading coefficient and the degree of the function.

The leading coefficient is 𝑎 = 10 > 0, while the degree is 𝑛 = 4 which is even.

Step 2: Find the limit of the function.

𝟏
Since 𝑎 > 0 and 𝑛 is even, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 (𝟗 − 𝟐 𝒙𝟑 + 𝟏𝟎𝒙𝟒 ) = ∞.
𝒙→−∞

1 Try It!
3
Evaluate lim (√3𝑥 + 4 𝑥 3 − √5𝑥 5 ).
3
𝑥→∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 9

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Example 2
2𝑥+6
Find the value of lim .
𝑥→∞ 5𝑥−7

Solution
Step 1: Divide the numerator and denominator by the largest power of 𝑥 in the
denominator.

The largest power of 𝑥 in the denominator is 𝑥, so we divide the numerator and

denominator by 𝑥. Note that we can only use this method if the degree of the
numerator is less than or equal to the degree of the denominator.

2𝑥 + 6
2𝑥 + 6 𝑥
lim = lim
𝑥→∞ 5𝑥 − 7 𝑥→∞ 5𝑥 − 7
𝑥
6
2+𝑥
= lim
𝑥→∞ 7
5−𝑥

1
Step 2: Apply the limit laws and the property lim = 0.
𝑥→∞ 𝑥

6 lim 2 + 6 lim 1
2 + 𝑥 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥
lim =
𝑥→∞ 7 1
5 − 𝑥 lim 5 − 7 lim 𝑥
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞
2 + 6(0)
=
5 − 7(0)
2
=
5

𝟐𝒙+𝟔 𝟐
Thus, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝟓𝒙−𝟕 = 𝟓.
𝒙→∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 10

Unit 2: Limit Laws

2 Try It!
7−9𝑥
Find the value of lim .
𝑥→∞ 12+3𝑥

Example 3
𝑥 2 +4
What is the value of lim ?
𝑥→−∞ 3𝑥 3−7𝑥 2+8

Solution
Step 1: Divide the numerator and denominator by the largest power of 𝑥 in the
denominator.

The largest power of 𝑥 in the denominator is 𝑥 3 , so we divide the numerator

and denominator by 𝑥 3 . Note that we can only use this method if the degree of
the numerator is less than or equal to the degree of the denominator.

𝑥2 + 4
+4𝑥2 𝑥3
lim = lim
𝑥→−∞ 3𝑥 3 − 7𝑥 2 + 8 𝑥→−∞ 3𝑥 3 − 7𝑥 2 + 8
𝑥3
1 4
𝑥 + 𝑥3
= lim
𝑥→−∞ 7 8
3−𝑥+ 3
𝑥

1
Step 2: Apply the limit laws and the property lim = 0.
𝑥→∞ 𝑥

1 4 1 1
lim + 4 lim 3
𝑥 + 𝑥3 𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 𝑥→−∞ 𝑥
lim =
𝑥→−∞ 7 8 1 1
3−𝑥+ 3 lim 3 − 7 lim 𝑥 + 8 lim 3
𝑥 𝑥→−∞ 𝑥→−∞ 𝑥→−∞ 𝑥
0 + 4(0)
=
3 − 7(0) + 8(0)
0
=
3
=0

2.4. Limits at Infinity 11

Unit 2: Limit Laws

𝒙𝟐 +𝟒
Thus, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 = 𝟎.
𝒙→−∞ 𝟑𝒙𝟑 −𝟕𝒙𝟐 +𝟖

3 Try It!
−3𝑥 4−5𝑥 3+4𝑥 2−2𝑥+1
Find the value of lim .
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 5−7𝑥 4+3𝑥−7

Example 4
5𝑥 6+7𝑥 4−2𝑥 2
What is the value of lim ?
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4−2𝑥 2+1

Solution
𝑟(𝑥)
Step 1: Express the fraction as mixed number in the form 𝑞(𝑥) + 𝑥 4−2𝑥 2+1, where

𝑞(𝑥) and 𝑟(𝑥) are the quotient and remainders, respectively, by dividing the
numerator by the denominator.

Since the degree of the numerator is greater than the degree of the
denominator, we first express the fraction as a mixed number before applying
the previous method.

If we divide 5𝑥 6 + 7𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 by 𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 + 1, the quotient is 5𝑥 2 and the

remainder is 17𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 2 .

5𝑥 6 + 7𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 2+
17𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 2
lim = lim ( 5𝑥 )
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 + 1 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 + 1
17𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 2
= lim 5𝑥 2 + lim
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 + 1

2.4. Limits at Infinity 12

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Step 2: Evaluate lim 5𝑥 2 .
𝑥→∞

Since 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥 2 is a polynomial function, we need to identify the end behavior

of its graph. We have degree 𝑎 = 5 > 0 and 𝑛 = 2, which is even. Thus,
lim 5𝑥 2 = ∞.
𝑥→∞

17𝑥 4−7𝑥 2
Step 3: Evaluate lim .
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4 −2𝑥 2+1

The largest power of 𝑥 in the denominator is 𝑥 4 , so we divide the numerator

and denominator by 𝑥 4 .

17𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 2
17𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 2 4
lim 4 2 = lim 4 𝑥 2
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 1 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 1
𝑥4
7
17 − 2
= lim 𝑥
𝑥→∞ 2 1
1− 2+ 4
𝑥 𝑥
1
lim 17 − 7 lim
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 2
=
1 1
lim 1 − 2 lim + lim
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 2 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4
17 − 7(0)
=
1 − 2(0) + 0
= 17

17𝑥 4−7𝑥 2
Step 4: Substitute the obtained values into lim 5𝑥 2 + lim .
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4−2𝑥 2+1

17𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 2
lim 5𝑥 2 + lim = ∞ + 17
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 + 1

=∞

In evaluating limits at infinity, any number added to ∞ is equal to ∞.

2.4. Limits at Infinity 13

Unit 2: Limit Laws
𝟓𝒙𝟔 +𝟕𝒙𝟒 −𝟐𝒙𝟐
Thus, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 = ∞.
𝒙→∞ 𝒙𝟒 −𝟐𝒙𝟐 +𝟏

4 Try It!
2
− 𝑥 10+9𝑥 7−6𝑥 3+17𝑥 2+12
Find the value of lim 3
5 4 .
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 +7𝑥 2−1
2

Tips
To easily evaluate the limits at infinity of rational functions similar to
Examples 2, 3, and 4, we use the following properties.

Let 𝑃(𝑥) be a rational function where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are the leading

coefficients of the numerator and denominator, respectively, 𝑎 and 𝑏
are not equal to zero, and 𝑛 and 𝑚 are the degrees of the numerator
and denominator, respectively.

𝒂
1. If 𝑛 = 𝑚, then 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝑷(𝒙) = 𝒃.
𝒙→±∞

2. If 𝑛 < 𝑚, then 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝑷(𝒙) = 𝟎.

𝒙→±∞
𝒂
3. If 𝑛 > 𝑚, then 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝑷(𝒙) = 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒙𝒏−𝒎 .
𝒙→±∞ 𝒙→±∞ 𝒃

Solving Examples 2, 3, and 4 using the properties above, we have the

following:

𝟐𝒙+𝟔
Example 2: 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝟓𝒙−𝟕
𝒙→∞

Based on the given, 𝑛 = 1 and 𝑚 = 1, hence 𝑛 = 𝑚. Thus,

2𝑥+6 𝑎 2 2𝑥+6
lim = 𝑏 = 5. If we graph 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥−7, its horizontal asymptote is
𝑥→∞ 5𝑥−7

2.4. Limits at Infinity 14

Unit 2: Limit Laws
2
the line 𝑦 = 5.

𝒙𝟐 +𝟒
Example 3: 𝐥𝐢𝐦
𝒙→−∞ 𝟑𝒙𝟑 −𝟕𝒙𝟐 +𝟖

Based on the given, 𝑛 = 2 and 𝑚 = 3, hence 𝑛 < 𝑚. Thus,

𝑥 2+4 𝑥 2+4
lim 3−7𝑥 2+8 = 0. If we graph 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥 3−7𝑥 2+8, its horizontal
𝑥→−∞ 3𝑥

asymptote is the line 𝑦 = 0.

𝟓𝒙𝟔 +𝟕𝒙𝟒 −𝟐𝒙𝟐

Example 4: 𝐥𝐢𝐦
𝒙→∞ 𝒙𝟒 −𝟐𝒙𝟐 +𝟏

Based on the given, 𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = 1, 𝑛 = 6, and 𝑚 = 4.

5𝑥 6 + 7𝑥 4 − 2𝑥 2 5
lim 4 2 = lim 𝑥 6−4
𝑥→∞ 𝑥 − 2𝑥 + 1 𝑥→∞ 1

= lim 5𝑥 2
𝑥→∞
=∞

5𝑥 6+7𝑥 4−2𝑥 2
Thus, the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = has no horizontal asymptote.
𝑥 4−2𝑥 2+1

Generally, if 𝑛 > 𝑚, the function will only have slant asymptotes and
no horizontal asymptotes.

𝑥 4 +1
How will you evaluate lim without graphing
𝑥→±∞ 𝑥 2 +1
or using table of values?

2.4. Limits at Infinity 15

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Limits at Infinity of Some Transcendental Functions

Limits at Infinity of Exponential Functions

Let us illustrate two graphs of exponential functions of the form 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑏 𝑥 , where 𝑏 > 0,
𝑏 ≠ 1.

Consider the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 .

Notice that as 𝑥 approaches positive infinity, 𝑦 moves towards positive infinity, while as it
approaches negative infinity, 𝑦 moves closer and closer to zero. Thus, we can say that

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝟐𝒙 = 𝟎 and 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝟐𝒙 = ∞.

𝒙→−∞ 𝒙→∞

1 𝑥
Now, consider the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = (2) . In this case, the base is between 0 and 1.

2.4. Limits at Infinity 16

Unit 2: Limit Laws

1 𝑥
The graphs of 𝑓(𝑥) = (2) and 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 are reflections of each other with respect to the 𝑦-
1 𝑥
axis. They differ in terms of the direction where they rise and fall. In the case of 𝑓(𝑥) = (2) ,

it could be seen that as 𝑥 approaches positive infinity, 𝑦 moves closer and closer to zero, while
as 𝑥 approaches negative infinity, 𝑦 moves towards positive infinity. In symbols, we can write
this as

𝟏 𝒙 𝟏 𝒙
𝐥𝐢𝐦 (𝟐) = ∞ and 𝐥𝐢𝐦 (𝟐) = 𝟎.
𝒙→−∞ 𝒙→∞

1 𝑥
Based on the graphs of 𝑓(𝑥) = 2𝑥 and 𝑓(𝑥) = (2) , we have the following properties of limits

at infinity of exponential functions.

𝟎, 𝐢𝐟 𝒃 > 𝟏
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒃𝒙 = {
𝒙→−∞ ∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝟎 < 𝒃 < 𝟏

∞, 𝐢𝐟 𝒃 > 𝟏
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒃𝒙 = {
𝒙→∞ 𝟎, 𝐢𝐟 𝟎 < 𝒃 < 𝟏

2.4. Limits at Infinity 17

Unit 2: Limit Laws
For natural exponential functions, we have:

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒆𝒙 = ∞ and 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝒆𝒙 = 𝟎

𝒙→∞ 𝒙→−∞

Properties of Operations Involving Infinity

For each equation below, let 𝑘 be any real number.

1. ±∞ + 𝑘 = ±∞
2. ±∞ ∙ 𝑘 = ±∞, if 𝑘 > 0.
3. ±∞ ∙ 𝑘 = ∓∞, if 𝑘 < 0.
4. ±∞ ∙ 0 is indeterminate.
𝑘
5. =0
±∞

Limits at Infinity of Logarithmic Functions

Let us illustrate two graphs of logarithmic functions of the form 𝑓(𝑥) = log 𝑏 𝑥, where 𝑏 > 0,
𝑏 ≠ 1.

Consider the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = log 2 𝑥.

2.4. Limits at Infinity 18

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Notice that as 𝑥 approaches positive infinity, 𝑦 moves towards positive infinity. However, the
limit as 𝑥 approaches negative infinity does not exist since the graph is asymptotic to the 𝑦-
axis, which means that it does not approach negative infinity. Thus, we have

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟐 𝒙 = ∞ and 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟐 𝒙 does not exist.

𝒙→∞ 𝒙→−∞

Now, consider the graph of 𝑓(𝑥) = log 1 𝑥. In this case, the base is between 0 and 1.
2

The graphs of 𝑓(𝑥) = log 1 𝑥 and 𝑓(𝑥) = log 2 𝑥 are reflections of each other with respect to the
2

𝑥-axis. They differ in terms of the direction where they rise and fall. In the case of 𝑓(𝑥) = log 1 𝑥,
2

it could be observed that as 𝑥 approaches positive infinity, 𝑦 moves towards negative infinity.
Meanwhile, the limit as 𝑥 approaches negative infinity does not exist, similar to the graph
𝑓(𝑥) = log 2 𝑥, as they are both asymptotic to the 𝑦-axis. Hence, we have

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟏 𝒙 = − ∞ and 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟏 𝒙 does not exist.

𝒙→∞ 𝟐 𝒙→−∞ 𝟐

2.4. Limits at Infinity 19

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Based on the graphs of 𝑓(𝑥) = log 2 𝑥 and lim log 1 𝑥, we have the following properties of
𝑥→−∞ 2

limits at infinity of logarithmic functions.

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝒃 𝒙 does not exist.

𝒙→−∞

∞, 𝒊𝒇 𝒃 > 𝟏
𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝒃 𝒙 = {
𝒙→∞ −∞, 𝒊𝒇 𝟎 < 𝒃 < 𝟏

For natural logarithmic functions, we have:

𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐧 𝒙 = ∞ and 𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐧 𝒙 does not exist.

𝒙→∞ 𝒙→−∞

Let’s Practice!
Example 5
Evaluate lim −5𝑒 𝑥 .
𝑥→∞

Solution
Step 1: Apply the limit laws.

lim −5𝑒 𝑥 = ( lim −5) ( lim 𝑒 𝑥 ) = −5 ( lim 𝑒 𝑥 )

𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞

Step 2: Use the property lim 𝑒 𝑥 = ∞.

𝑥→∞

−5 ( lim 𝑒 𝑥 ) = −5(∞)
𝑥→∞
= −∞

Thus, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 −𝟓𝒆𝒙 = −∞.

𝒙→∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 20

Unit 2: Limit Laws

5 Try It!
1
Evaluate lim 𝑒 𝑥+2 .
𝑥→−∞ 2

Example 6
Evaluate lim (−2 log 5 4𝑥 + 10).
𝑥→∞

Solution
Step 1: Apply the limit laws.

lim (−2 log 5 4𝑥 + 10) = ( lim −2) ( lim log 5 4𝑥) + lim 10
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞

= −2 ( lim log 5 4𝑥) + 10

𝑥→∞

Step 2: Note that the logarithmic function 𝑓(𝑥) = log 5 4𝑥 is of the form 𝑓(𝑥) = log 𝑏 𝑥,
where 𝑏 > 1. Use the property of limits at infinity of logarithmic functions.

−2 ( lim log 5 4𝑥) + 10 = −2[log 5 4(∞)] + 10

𝑥→∞
= −2(∞) + 10
= −∞ + 10
= −∞

Thus, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 (−𝟐 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟓 𝟒𝒙 + 𝟏𝟎) = −∞.

𝒙→∞

6 Try It!
Evaluate lim (5 ln 3𝑥 − 4).
𝑥→∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 21

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Example 7
5 1−𝑥
What is the value of lim [−4 (8) + 12]?
𝑥→∞

Solution
Apply the limit laws and operations involving infinity.

5 1−𝑥 5 1−𝑥
lim [−4 ( ) + 12] = ( lim −4) [ lim ( ) ] + lim 12
𝑥→∞ 8 𝑥→∞ 𝑥→∞ 8 𝑥→∞

5 1−∞
= −4 ( ) + 12
8
5 −∞
= −4 ( ) + 12
8
8 ∞
= −4 ( ) + 12
5
= −4(∞) + 12
= −∞ + 12
= −∞

𝟓 𝟏−𝒙
Thus, 𝐥𝐢𝐦 [−𝟒 (𝟖) + 𝟏𝟐] = −∞.
𝒙→∞

7 Try It!
1 9 7𝑥+2
Evaluate lim [3 (2) − 1].
𝑥→−∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 22

Unit 2: Limit Laws
Key Points
___________________________________________________________________________________________

● The limits at infinity of polynomial functions depend on the end behaviors of its
graph.
● The limits at infinity of rational functions depend on the degree of the numerator
and denominator.
● The limits at infinity of exponential functions depend on the value of its base.
● The limit at negative infinity of logarithmic functions does not exist.
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Key Formulas
___________________________________________________________________________________________

Concept Formula Description

Limits at Infinity of −∞, if 𝑎 < 0 and n is even Use these

lim 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 = {
Polynomial 𝑥→±∞ ∞, if 𝑎 > 0 and n is even formulas to find
Functions the limits at infinity
∞, if 𝑎 < 0 and n is odd of polynomial
lim 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 = {
𝑥→−∞ −∞, if 𝑎 > 0 and n is odd functions of
degree 𝑛 and
−∞, if 𝑎 < 0 and n is odd leading coefficient
lim 𝑎𝑥 𝑛 = {
𝑥→∞ ∞, if 𝑎 > 0 and n is odd 𝑎.

Limits at Infinity of 𝑎 Use these

𝑎𝑥 𝑛 , if 𝑛 = 𝑚
Rational Functions lim = {𝑏 formulas to find
𝑥→±∞ 𝑏𝑥 𝑚
0, if 𝑛 < 𝑚 the limits at infinity
of rational
𝑎𝑥 𝑛
lim = lim
𝑎
𝑥 𝑛−𝑚 if 𝑛 > 𝑚. functions with
𝑥→±∞ 𝑏𝑥 𝑚 𝑥→±∞ 𝑏
numerator
denominator of

2.4. Limits at Infinity 23

Unit 2: Limit Laws

degree 𝑛 and 𝑚,
respectively, and
leading coefficients
𝑎 and 𝑏,
respectively, where
𝑎 and 𝑏 are not
equal to zero.

Limits at Infinity of lim 𝑏 𝑥 = {

0, if 𝑏 > 1 Use these
𝑥→−∞ ∞, if 0 < 𝑏 < 1
Exponential formulas to find
Functions the limits at infinity
∞, if 𝑏 > 1 of exponential
lim 𝑏 𝑥 = {
𝑥→∞ 0, if 0 < 𝑏 < 1
functions of base 𝑒
and 𝑏, where 𝑏 >
lim 𝑒 𝑥 = ∞ and lim 𝑒 𝑥 = 0. 0, 𝑏 ≠ 1.
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→−∞

Limits at Infinity of lim log 𝑏 𝑥 does not exist. Use these

𝑥→−∞
Logarithmic formulas to find
Functions the limits at infinity
∞, if 𝑏 > 1
lim log 𝑏 𝑥 = {
𝑥→∞ −∞, 𝑖𝑓 0 < 𝑏 < 1 of logarithmic
functions of base 𝑒
and 𝑏, where 𝑏 >
lim ln 𝑥 = ∞ and lim ln 𝑥 does not exist.
𝑥→∞ 𝑥→−∞ 0, 𝑏 ≠ 1.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

2.4. Limits at Infinity 24

Unit 2: Limit Laws

Check Your Understanding

A. Evaluate the limits at infinity of the following functions.

𝒇(𝒙)

1. lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→∞

2. lim 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑥→−∞

𝒈(𝒙)

3. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→∞

4. lim 𝑔(𝑥)
𝑥→−∞

2.4. Limits at Infinity 25

Unit 2: Limit Laws

𝒉(𝒙)

5. lim ℎ(𝑥)
𝑥→∞

6. lim ℎ(𝑥)
𝑥→−∞

B. Evaluate the following limits.

1 1
1. lim ( 𝑥 4 − 7𝑥 6 − 2𝑥 3 − 2 𝑥)
𝑥→−∞ 5
4𝑥 2−7𝑥+7
2. lim
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥 2+5
1 9
𝑥 −7𝑥 10+5𝑥
3. lim 3
𝑥→∞ −3𝑥 7+5𝑥+2
2
√2𝑥 2−7𝑥+5
4. lim
𝑥→∞ 32𝑥+8𝑥 4+9𝑥 7

5. lim 3𝑒 𝑥+1
𝑥→−∞
1 1 2𝑥
6. lim − ( )
𝑥→∞ 2 4

7. lim [−6(8)3𝑥−7 − 5]
𝑥→−∞
3 𝑥+7
8. lim [8 (2) − 11]
𝑥→−∞
2
9. lim (𝑥−1 + 𝑥 2 )
𝑥→∞

10. lim ln(5𝑥 + 1)

𝑥→∞

11. lim −3 log 1 (𝑥 + 5)

𝑥→∞ 2

2.4. Limits at Infinity 26

Unit 2: Limit Laws
3 4
12. lim ( − )
𝑥→−∞ 𝑥+1 𝑥−2
1
13. lim (− 3 𝑥 51 − 29𝑥 2 + 𝑥)
𝑥→∞
5 4 8−𝑥
14. lim [− 4 (9 ) + 3]
𝑥→∞

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions.

1. Let 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎𝑏 𝑥 be an exponential function defined for any real number 𝑎 ≠ 0. If 𝑏 > 1,
how does lim 𝑓(𝑥) change as 𝑎 changes?
𝑥→∞

2. Let 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑎 log 𝑏 𝑥 be a logarithmic function defined for any real number 𝑎 ≠ 0. If
𝑏 > 1, how does lim 𝑓(𝑥) change as 𝑎 changes?
𝑥→∞

3. Let 𝑓, 𝑔, and ℎ be polynomial functions of degree 𝑝, 𝑞, and 𝑟, respectively, such that 𝑝

and 𝑞 are even, and 𝑟 is odd. Find the value of lim −𝑓(𝑥)𝑔(𝑥)ℎ(𝑥). Assume that the
𝑥→−∞

leading coefficients of 𝑓, 𝑔, and ℎ are positive.

4. Let 𝑓, 𝑔, and ℎ be non-constant polynomial functions of degree 𝑝, 𝑞, and 𝑟,
𝑔(𝑥)+ℎ(𝑥)
respectively, such that 𝑝 < 𝑞 < 𝑟. What is the value of lim ?
𝑥→∞ 𝑔(𝑥)ℎ(𝑥)

5. Give a real-life situation that models a limit at infinity of an exponential function.

Photo Credits
E coli bacteria by NIAID is licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

2.4. Limits at Infinity 27

Unit 1: Introduction to Conic Sections and Circles

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

Larson, Ron H. and Bruce H. Edwards. Essential Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions.
Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2008.

Leithold, Louis. The Calculus 7. New York: HarperCollins College Publ., 1997.

Smith, Robert T. and Roland B. Milton. Calculus. New York: McGraw Hill, 2012.

Tan, Soo T. Applied Calculus for the Managerial, Life, and Social Sciences: A Brief Approach.
Australia: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning, 2012.

Key to Try It!

1. −∞
2. −3
3. 0
4. −∞
5. 0
6. ∞
7. −1

2.4. Limits at Infinity 28