Find x,y Coordinates of Stationary Point: 2x^2-2xy+y^2+2x+5

In summary, the function z(x,y) has a stationary point at (-1,-1) and it is a global minimum with a value of 4.
  • #1
MarkFL
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MHB
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Here is the question:

Find the (x; y) coordinates of the stationary point of: z(x,y) = 2x^2 - 2xy + y^2 + 2x + 5 and find the natu?


Find the (x; y) coordinates of the stationary point of:

z(x,y) = 2x^2 - 2xy + y^2 + 2x + 5

and find the nature of the stationary point.

I have posted a link there to this thread so the OP can view my work.
 
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  • #2
Hello Krazy G,

We are given the function:

\(\displaystyle z(x,y)=2x^2-2xy+y^2+2x+5\)

First, we want to find the critical points by equating the first partials to zero:

\(\displaystyle z_x(x,y)=4x-2y+2=0\)

\(\displaystyle z_y(x,y)=-2x+2y=0\)

The second equation implies $y=x$, and substitution for $y$ into the first equation yields:

\(\displaystyle x=-1\)

and so the critical point is:

\(\displaystyle (x,y)=(-1,-1)\)

Now, to determine the nature of this critical point we may utilize the second partials test for relative extrema.

\(\displaystyle D(x,y)=z_{xx}(x,y)z_{yy}(x,y)-\left[z_{xy}(x,y) \right]^2=4\cdot2-(-2)^2=4\)

Since \(\displaystyle z_{xx}(x,y)=4>0\) and \(\displaystyle D(x,y)=4>0\), then we conclude that the critical value is the global minimum. Hence:

\(\displaystyle z_{\min}=z(-1,-1)=4\)
 

1. What is a stationary point?

A stationary point, also known as a critical point, is a point on a curve where the tangent line is horizontal, meaning that the slope of the curve is equal to zero. This point represents a potential maximum or minimum on the curve.

2. How do you find the coordinates of a stationary point?

To find the coordinates of a stationary point, we must first find the derivative of the given function. Then, we set the derivative equal to zero and solve for x and y. The resulting values for x and y will be the coordinates of the stationary point.

3. What is the significance of finding stationary points?

Finding stationary points is important because they represent potential maximum or minimum points on a curve. This information can be useful in optimizing functions and solving real-world problems.

4. Can a function have more than one stationary point?

Yes, a function can have multiple stationary points, depending on the complexity of the function. For example, a cubic function can have up to three stationary points.

5. How do you determine if a stationary point is a maximum or minimum?

To determine if a stationary point is a maximum or minimum, we can use the second derivative test. If the second derivative is positive at the stationary point, it is a minimum, and if the second derivative is negative, it is a maximum. If the second derivative is zero, further analysis is needed to determine the nature of the stationary point.

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