Finding Gradient Vector of f(x,y,z) = 2*sqrt(xyz) at Point (3,-4,-3)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the gradient vector of the function f(x,y,z) = 2*sqrt(xyz) at the point (3,-4,-3). Participants are exploring the calculation of partial derivatives and the application of the chain rule in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the gradient vector by finding partial derivatives and substituting specific values, but expresses uncertainty about the signs in their results. They also question their application of the chain rule in a different context.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the calculations and checking each other's work. Some guidance has been offered regarding the signs of the derivatives, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct gradient vector yet.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the signs in the gradient calculation, particularly related to the square root function, and the original poster is seeking clarification on their use of the chain rule.

kasse
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I want to find the gradient vector of f(x,y,z)=2*sqrt(xyz) at the point ((3,-4,-3).

I find the partials and set in for the x-, y-, and z-values, and find the grad. vector (2, (1,5), 2). The right solution is (2, (-1,5), -2), so I have obviously made a mistake with the sqrt. How do I know whether it's + or -?

And another question: Have I used the chain rule correctly when I have calculated the gradient of f(x,y,z) at (-5,1,3) to be (160,-240,400)?
 
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what did you get for your gradient??
 
Call your variables x_{i}, i=1,2,3[/tex]<br /> Then, f(x_{1},x_{2},x_{3})=2\sqrt{x_{1}x_{2}x_{3}}<br /> And the partials are:<br /> \frac{\partial{f}}{\partial{x}_{i}}=\frac{2x_{j}x_{k}}{f}, i,j,k=1,2,3,j\neq{i}\neq{k},j\neq{k}<br /> Mind your signs..
 
kasse said:
I want to find the gradient vector of f(x,y,z)=2*sqrt(xyz) at the point ((3,-4,-3).

I find the partials and set in for the x-, y-, and z-values, and find the grad. vector (2, (1,5), 2). The right solution is (2, (-1,5), -2), so I have obviously made a mistake with the sqrt. How do I know whether it's + or -?

And another question: Have I used the chain rule correctly when I have calculated the gradient of f(x,y,z) at (-5,1,3) to be (160,-240,400)?
?? You know whether it is + or - (- is correct here) because that's what you get when you do the arithmetic!

What did you get for the gradient vector of f(x,y,z)= 2\sqrt{xyz}?
 

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