Define a function z = f(x,y) by f(0,0) = 0 and otherwise?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around defining a function z = f(x,y) with specific conditions and exploring its properties, particularly in polar coordinates. Participants are addressing theoretical aspects, mathematical reasoning, and directional derivatives related to the function.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant defines the function f(x,y) as (x^2 y) / (x^2 + y^2) with f(0,0) = 0 and poses several tasks related to it.
  • Another participant suggests starting with part (a) and encourages showing self-effort by substituting polar coordinates for x and y.
  • A later reply expresses confusion about part (c), specifically regarding the meaning of Df and seeks clarification on the directional derivatives.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion shows some participants agreeing on the approach to tackle the problem, particularly in starting with part (a). However, there is uncertainty regarding the interpretation of directional derivatives in part (c), indicating that the discussion remains unresolved on this aspect.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the implications of the function's definition at the origin (0,0) and how it affects the existence of directional derivatives. There is also a lack of detailed exploration of the mathematical steps required to complete the tasks.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or individuals interested in multivariable calculus, particularly those studying functions of two variables and their properties in different coordinate systems.

matthewturner
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please help me with this. At least some thing to start solving...

Define a function z = f(x,y) by f(0,0) = 0 and otherwise.

f(x,y) =(x^2 y) / (x^2+y^2 )

a. Show that in polar coordinates this function may be expressed (for r≠ 0) as z = r 〖cos〗^2 (θ)sin(θ)

b. Show that if θ is fixed then the graph is given by z = mr, a line of slope
m= 〖cos〗^2 (θ)sin(θ).
(Note that this says that the surface z = f(x,y) is what is called a ruled surface.)

c. Compute the directional derivatives of z in the θ direction. Does Df exist at the point (0,0)? Explain.
 
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welcome to pf!

hi matthew! welcome to pf! :smile:

(try using the X2 button just above the Reply box :wink:)

show us what you've tried, and where you're stuck, and then we'll know how to help! :smile:

start with "a."
 
matthewturner said:
please help me with this. At least some thing to start solving...

Define a function z = f(x,y) by f(0,0) = 0 and otherwise.

f(x,y) =(x^2 y) / (x^2+y^2 )

a. Show that in polar coordinates this function may be expressed (for r≠ 0) as z = r 〖cos〗^2 (θ)sin(θ)

b. Show that if θ is fixed then the graph is given by z = mr, a line of slope
m= 〖cos〗^2 (θ)sin(θ).
(Note that this says that the surface z = f(x,y) is what is called a ruled surface.)

c. Compute the directional derivatives of z in the θ direction. Does Df exist at the point (0,0)? Explain.



Start for noting that in polar coordinates, x=r\cos\theta\,\,,\,\,y=r\sin\theta , so substitute and get (a) at least . Now show some self effort.

DonAntonio
 
Thanks DonAntonio,

thanks for showing me the path. I almost completed the part a and b. have a confusion about the part c. here Df means the derivative of the f. Do you have any idea about that one?

Thanks again for helping me. I appreciate what you did. As you gave me before I just need a hint to proceed, not the whole proof. thanks again.
 

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