Partial Implicit Differentiation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the topic of partial implicit differentiation, specifically focusing on finding the partial derivative of \( z \) with respect to \( x \) in the context of an implicit function defined by the equation \( \frac{x^2}{9} - \frac{y^2}{4} + \frac{z^2}{2} = 1 \). Participants are exploring the correctness of their approaches and reasoning in applying differentiation rules.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to differentiate the given implicit function and questions the correctness of their reasoning and calculations. They express uncertainty about their understanding of the implicit differentiation process. Another participant suggests an alternative method involving the theorem of implicit functions, which the original poster is unfamiliar with. Additionally, a follow-up question is raised regarding the differentiation of a product involving \( \sin(xz) \), leading to further exploration of the differentiation process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's approach. While one participant confirms that the original poster's method looks acceptable, there is no explicit consensus on the correctness of the reasoning. The original poster expresses a desire for clarification on the implicit function theorem and seeks guidance on a new differentiation question.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a lack of comprehensive examples in their textbook, which may contribute to their uncertainty in applying the differentiation techniques discussed. There is also a mention of potential limitations in understanding the theorem of implicit functions.

mattmns
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Just wondering if I did this right:

Here is the question: find [tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} of \frac{x^2}{9} - \frac{y^2}{4} + \frac{z^2}{2} = 1[/tex]

Now I put the [tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x}[/tex] on both sides then got.

[tex]\frac{2x}{9} - 0 + z \frac{\partial z}{\partial x} = 0[/tex]

So


[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} = -\frac{2x}{9z}[/tex]

Now I know this is the right answer I am just curious if I did it right, it has been a while.

Now my reasoning:

[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} \frac{x^2}{9}[/tex] is just the derivative with respect to x, so it will be [tex]\frac{2x}{9}[/tex]

[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} \frac{y^2}{4}[/tex] has no z or x, so it is constand and therefore 0.

[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} \frac{z^2}{2}[/tex] has a z, so it is the derivative of itself, but times [tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x}[/tex]

Is all of that correct, or did I do something wrong. The book I have only shows one example :mad:

Thanks!
 
Last edited:
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It looks okay.You could have done it using the theorem of implicit functions,as well.

Daniel.
 
Thanks dex! I have no idea what the theorem of implicit functions is, but I probably could not use it anyway.
 
One more question for now :smile:

I need to find

[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} sin(xz)[/tex]

How exactly does this work?

Will it be: cos(xz) [times] what? [tex]\frac{\partial_}{\partial x} xz[/tex]

Which will then be cos(xz) [times] x ? This one seems to be wrong. Any ideas?
 

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