Finding tan line to curve via implicit dif.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equation of a tangent line to the curve defined by the implicit equation x^2 + 2xy - y^2 + x = 2 at the point (1, 2) using implicit differentiation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to differentiate the implicit equation and isolate the derivative to find the slope of the tangent line. They express uncertainty about their differentiation process and whether they are correctly interpreting the problem's requirements.
  • Some participants question the output from a calculator, noting discrepancies in the derivative results and seeking alternative methods to verify their solution.
  • Others suggest using graphing software to visualize the curve and the tangent line, although they acknowledge the limitations of such tools in a testing environment.
  • There are inquiries about the notation used for differentiation, specifically whether dy/dx or dx/dy is expected in the context of the problem.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants providing feedback and suggestions for verification methods. There is no explicit consensus on the correctness of the original poster's approach, but some guidance has been offered regarding the use of graphing tools and the interpretation of differentiation notation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the lack of clarity in the problem statement regarding the expected form of the derivative and express concerns about verifying their results without access to graphing tools during assessments.

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 :(.
 

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