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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of the total differential of a two-variable function, specifically examining the expression for the change in the function z, defined as z=h(x, y), when x and y are functions of another variable t. Participants explore the clarity and correctness of the derivation presented, including the notation used and the implications of keeping certain variables constant.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a derivation of the total differential, questioning if there is anything wrong with it.
  • Another participant expresses agreement with the derivation but seeks clarification on certain aspects.
  • Some participants challenge the clarity of the notation used, particularly the expression involving constant variables.
  • Amendments to the original derivation are proposed, suggesting alternative formulations for the change in z.
  • There is a mention of the significance of second-order infinitesimals in the context of the limit leading to the total differential.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the clarity and correctness of the derivation. While some find it acceptable, others raise questions about specific notations and interpretations, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding the clarity of certain expressions and the implications of keeping variables constant in the derivation. The discussion also touches on the treatment of infinitesimals, which may depend on the definitions used by participants.

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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