Finding tan line to curve via implicit dif.

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The discussion focuses on using implicit differentiation to find the equation of a tangent line for the curve defined by x^2 + 2xy - y^2 + x = 2 at the point (1, 2). The user successfully derives the slope of the tangent line as 7/2 and formulates the equation y = (7/2)x - (3/2). There is confusion regarding the output from a TI-89 calculator, which returns 2x + 1 = 0, leading to questions about verifying the solution and graphing the curve. A suggestion is made to use a free graphing program to visualize the tangent line and confirm its correctness. The user expresses a desire for further clarification on whether the problem requires dy/dx or dx/dy, but it's noted that the method should yield the same result regardless.
QuarkCharmer
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Homework Statement


Stewart Calculus (6E) 3.6 question #26
Using implicit differentiation, find the equation of a tangent line to the curve at the given point.
x^2+2xy-y^2+x=2
Through point p(1,2)

I just want to know if I am doing this correctly.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


I start with the original equation, and find the derivative with respect to x. (I am assuming x right?)

x^2+2xy-y^2+x=2
\frac{d}{dx}x^2+2xy-y^2+x=2
2x+2(y+xy')-2yy'+1=0
2x+2y+2xy'-2yy'+1=0

Now I isolate the derivative of y(y') and solve for it:
2x+2y+1=y'(2y-2x)
y'=\frac{2x+2y+1}{2y-2x}

So, to get the derivative (slope of tangent) at that point, I put that x/y coordinate in for the derivative equation and get y' :

\frac{2(1)+2(2)+1}{2(2)-2(1)} = \frac{2+4+1}{4-2} = \frac{7}{2}

Now, having the slope of the tangent line at that point on the original curve, I can just stick it in the equation of a line with the coordinate points.
2=\frac{7}{2}(1)+k
2-\frac{7}{2} = k
k = -\frac{3}{2}

So the solution is:
y=\frac{7}{2}x-\frac{3}{2}

?
 
Last edited:
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Seems correct Quark! :smile:

Well done!
 
Thank you.

When I check the dy/dx on my calculator (TI-89) via:
d(x^2+2xy-y^2+x=2,x)
it returns 2x+1=0 ??

and I can't figure out how to get the original equation in terms of y= +/- something to graph it with my tangent line to see if it looks right. How can I verify this solution via other means?

Also, how do I know they want the dy/dx and not a dx/dy ? There is no indication in the problem.
 
QuarkCharmer said:
Thank you.

When I check the dy/dx on my calculator (TI-89) via:
d(x^2+2xy-y^2+x=2,x)
it returns 2x+1=0 ??

and I can't figure out how to get the original equation in terms of y= +/- something to graph it with my tangent line to see if it looks right. How can I verify this solution via other means?

Let me present you one of the best free graphing programs out there:

http://www.padowan.dk/graph/

Install it, then go to function -> add a relation (or something like that) or type F6.
This way you can add the implicit relation.

Then go to function -> add a function (or type Ins) and add the tangent line.

You'll see that the line is a perfect tangent at the curve!

(Also, your calculator is weird! :biggrin: )


Also, how do I know they want the dy/dx and not a dx/dy ? There is no indication in the problem.

This shouldn't really matter. If you try it the other way, then I'm pretty sure you'll end up with the same answer.
 
I used that program to verify the solution, that won't do me much good on a test though!

Thanks for the help! I am sure I will post many more questions, it's the weekend :(.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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