Related Rates Question

[dreit]

When trying to solve a related rates problem, sometimes you need to relate variables. Can anyone help me with the conceptual reasoning or at least what to look for in these problems?

[HallsofIvy]

It depends upon the problem. Often such problems involve a particular geometric structure and then you look at things like the Pythagorean theorem, similar triangles, volume formulas, etc. Or if the problem involves motion, perhaps v= d/t.

It is a matter of looking for and recognizing relationships.

[Mark44]

You pretty much always need to get a relationship (in the form of an equation) between the variables. The related rates part comes from differentiating both sides of the relationship equation to get a relationship involving the rates (derivatives).

[dreit]

Oh alright, that makes more sense. Thanks guys