Correcting Mistakes in Partial Differential Equations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem in partial differential equations, specifically proving a certain equation involving the function f(x,y) = 1/√(1-2xy+y^2). The original poster expresses difficulty in achieving the expected result of zero.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster shares their calculations and seeks to identify errors in their approach. Some participants question the correctness of the derivatives calculated, particularly regarding the powers involved. There is also discussion about the application of the quotient rule in the differentiation process.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in identifying mistakes in the original poster's work. Some have provided feedback on specific errors, particularly in the last line of the calculations. The conversation reflects a collaborative effort to clarify misunderstandings and explore the reasoning behind the calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the original poster's repeated attempts to solve the problem, indicating a struggle with the differentiation process and the application of rules. The discussion also highlights potential misinterpretations of the function's derivatives.

aruwin
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I have calculated 3 times and I still don't get the answer. The answer should be 0.
Here's the question and my work. Which part am I wrong?


f(x,y) = 1/√(1-2xy+y^2)

Prove that ∂/∂x{(1-x^2)*∂f/∂x} + ∂/∂y{(y^2)*∂f/∂y} = 0
 

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The powers "-1/2" in the very first step for both fx and fy should be "+1/2".
 
haruspex said:
The powers "-1/2" in the very first step for both fx and fy should be "+1/2".

I think my first partial derivative is correct.

because the power of the original function is +1/2 so when we differentiate it,it becomes
1/2 - 1 = -1/2

But I don't get 0 for the final answer
 
Sorry, you're right. The mistakes are in the last line.
In fact, hardly any of the last line looks right to me!
E.g. the first term should be (writing g = 1/f):
[-2xyg3 + 3y2(1-x2)g]/g6
No?
 
haruspex said:
Sorry, you're right. The mistakes are in the last line.
In fact, hardly any of the last line looks right to me!
E.g. the first term should be (writing g = 1/f):
[-2xyg3 + 3y2(1-x2)g]/g6
No?

Yeah, I know what went wrong now :D I used the quotient rule incorrectly.
Thanks, I have solved this! :)
 
Last edited:

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