Implicit Utility Function Equations: Solving for Partial Derivatives

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In summary, the implicit function is a mathematical concept that relates a dependent variable to one or more independent variables through an equation, where the dependent variable is not explicitly expressed. This is different from an explicit function where the dependent variable is explicitly written in terms of the independent variables. The purpose of using the implicit function is to describe relationships between variables that cannot be solved for explicitly, and it is widely used in various real-world applications such as in physics, engineering, and economics. However, there are limitations to using the implicit function, including difficulties in visualization and analysis, and potential errors in calculations due to the lack of a unique solution.
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christine1986
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Homework Statement



Assuming that the equation F(U, x1, x2, ..., xn) = 0 implicity defines a utility function U=f(x1, x2, ..., xn):

Find the expressions for [tex]\partial[/tex]U/[tex]\partial[/tex]x2, [tex]\partial[/tex]U/[tex]\partial[/tex]xn, [tex]\partial[/tex]x3/[tex]\partial[/tex]x2, and [tex]\partial[/tex]x4/[tex]\partial[/tex]xn.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I read the textbook to solve this problem but still cannot figure out how to solve it.
Please help me.
 
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  • #2
If U is some function [itex]U(\vec x)[/itex], then what is

[tex]\frac{\partial F(U;\vec x)}{\partial x_2}[/tex]

?

Hint: Apply the chain rule.
 

FAQ: Implicit Utility Function Equations: Solving for Partial Derivatives

What is the implicit function?

The implicit function is a mathematical concept that relates a dependent variable to one or more independent variables through an equation. Unlike explicit functions, the dependent variable is not explicitly expressed in terms of the independent variables, hence the term "implicit".

How is the implicit function different from the explicit function?

The main difference between the implicit and explicit functions is that the dependent variable in an implicit function is not explicitly written in terms of the independent variables, while in an explicit function, it is. Implicit functions are often used to describe relationships that cannot be solved for explicitly.

What is the purpose of using the implicit function?

The implicit function allows us to describe relationships between variables that cannot be expressed explicitly. This is especially useful in cases where solving for the dependent variable is not possible, such as in non-linear equations.

How is the implicit function used in real-world applications?

The implicit function is used in various fields of science, including physics, engineering, and economics, to model complex relationships between variables. It is also used in computer programming and data analysis to solve systems of equations and optimize functions.

What are the limitations of using the implicit function?

One limitation of the implicit function is that it can be challenging to visualize and analyze, especially in higher dimensions. Additionally, it may not always be possible to solve for the dependent variable, making it difficult to find specific values of the function. Furthermore, the implicit function may not always have a unique solution, leading to potential errors in calculations.

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