Extrema with Lagrange in Vector Calc.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the extrema of the function f(x,y) = x - y, subject to the constraint x² - y² = 2, using the method of Lagrange multipliers. The user correctly identifies the gradients as ∇f = (1, -1) and ∇g = (2x, -2y), leading to the equations 1 = λ(2x) and -1 = λ(-2y). The conclusion drawn is that there are no extrema for this set of equations since the condition x = y contradicts the constraint. The user also notes that despite plotting the equations in Maple, the nature of the function suggests that all points may be extrema due to the plane's orientation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Lagrange multipliers
  • Familiarity with gradient vectors
  • Knowledge of constraint equations in multivariable calculus
  • Experience with 3D graphing tools, such as Maple
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of Lagrange multipliers in detail
  • Learn about the implications of constraint equations in optimization problems
  • Explore the graphical interpretation of functions and constraints in 3D
  • Investigate cases with no apparent solutions in optimization
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Students and educators in multivariable calculus, particularly those focusing on optimization techniques and the application of Lagrange multipliers in constrained problems.

DougD720
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I know this is supposed to go in the HW forum but its not working there so I'm trying it here, and I'm actually running into the same problem with another problem AGAIN. Someone tell me if I am doing this right:

---

[tex]\nabla[/tex]

Homework Statement



Find the extrema of f(x,y)=x-y ; subject to x2-y2=2


Homework Equations



[tex]\nabla[/tex]f=[tex]\lambda[/tex][tex]\nabla[/tex]g


The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\nabla[/tex]f=(1,-1)
[tex]\nabla[/tex]g=(2x, -2x)

(1,-1)=[tex]\lambda[/tex](2x, -2x)

1 = [tex]\lambda[/tex](2x) |-> [tex]\lambda[/tex]=[tex]\frac{1}{2x}[/tex]
-1 = [tex]\lambda[/tex](-2y) |-> [tex]\lambda[/tex]=[tex]\frac{1}{2y}[/tex]

Which means x = y , but it has to satisfy x2-y2=2 and if x=y then it cannot satisfy this meaning there are no extrema for this set of equations.

Am i right? I tried working it out with other methods but it just keeps not working, however, i plotted the two equations in 3D on Maple and they do intersect so shouldn't there be extrema? Or is the fact that x-y is a plane parallel to the xy-axis mean that all points are extrema?

We never did a problem like this in class, one with no apparent solution, so I'm confused a bit here.



Thanks for the help!
 
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Nevermind... it said there was an error but it did post it in the HW forums... so if someone could delete this i'd appreciate it :)
 

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