An attempt to find the total differential of a two-variable function

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    Differential Function
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivation of the total differential of a two-variable function, specifically expressed as \( dz = \frac{\partial h}{\partial x} dx + \frac{\partial h}{\partial y} dy \). Participants analyze the expression for the change in the function \( z \), represented as \( \Delta z = h(x+\Delta x, y+\Delta y) - h(x, y) \), and its components. Clarifications are made regarding the notation \( \Delta h_{y \text{ constant}} \) and \( \Delta h_{x \text{ constant}} \), emphasizing the importance of maintaining constant variables during differentiation. The derivation is confirmed to be correct under the limit condition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of multivariable calculus concepts, particularly total differentials.
  • Familiarity with partial derivatives and their notation.
  • Knowledge of infinitesimals and their role in calculus.
  • Basic understanding of vector calculus, specifically gradient notation.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the total differential in optimization problems.
  • Learn about the gradient vector and its significance in multivariable functions.
  • Explore the concept of line integrals and their relation to total differentials.
  • Investigate higher-order differentials and their applications in Taylor series expansions.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those focusing on calculus, multivariable analysis, and applied mathematics. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of differentials in two-variable functions.

Kashmir
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Let ##\quad z=h(x, y)##
and
##x=f(t) ; y=g(t)##

Let the change in the function z be given by ##\Delta z=h(x+\Delta x, y+\Delta y)-h(x,y)##

We can also write the change as

##\begin{aligned} \Delta z=h &(x+\Delta x, y)-\\ & h(x, y)-h(x+\Delta x, y) \\ &+h(x+\Delta x, y+\Delta y) \end{aligned}####\Delta z=\Delta h_{y\text { constant }}+\Delta h_{x
\operatorname{constant} }##

In the limit then we have
##dz=\frac{\partial h}{\partial x} d x+\frac{\partial h}{\partial y} d y##

Is there anything wrong with this derivation?
 
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Sounds good.
 
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Kashmir said:
Is there anything wrong with this derivation?
What could possibly be wrong ? :rolleyes:

$$
\Delta z=\Delta h_{y\text { constant }}+\Delta h_{x

\operatorname{constant} }$$is not really clear
 
I've not seen this derivation, thought maybe it was wrong somehow.
BvU said:
What could possibly be wrong ? :rolleyes:

$$
\Delta z=\Delta h_{y\text { constant }}+\Delta h_{x

\operatorname{constant} }$$is not really clear
The delta y constant means that y has been kept as a constant
 
Some amendment
\triangle z = \triangle h_{y\ constant}+\triangle h_{x+\triangle x \ constant}
\triangle z = \triangle h_{x\ constant}+\triangle h_{y+\triangle y \ constant}
For general paths
\triangle z = \int _{(x,y)}^{(x+\triangle x,y+\triangle y)} \nabla h \cdot \mathbf{dl}
 
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anuttarasammyak said:
Some amendment
\triangle z = \triangle h_{y\ constant}+\triangle h_{x+\triangle x \ constant}
\triangle z = \triangle h_{x\ constant}+\triangle h_{y+\triangle y \ constant}
For general paths
\triangle z = \int _{(x,y)}^{(x+\triangle x,y+\triangle y)} \nabla h \cdot \mathbf{dl}
So am i wrong, friend?
 
The difference is magnitude of second order of infinitesimals so
Kashmir said:
In the limit then we have
dz=∂h∂xdx+∂h∂ydy
holds in the limit.
 
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