How Do You Sketch Level Curves for T(x,y) = (2x+y)/(x^2 -y^2)?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on sketching level curves for the scalar field T(x,y) = (2x+y)/(x^2 -y^2) at specific values: T = -1, -0.5, 0, 0.5, and 1. The user derived equations for these levels, including hyperbolic forms such as (x + 1)^2 - (y - 0.5)^2 = 3/4 for T = -1 and (x - 2)^2 - (y + 1)^2 = 3 for T = 0. The user seeks clarification on graphing these equations and understanding their geometric significance, particularly in relation to hyperbolas and circles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of level curves in multivariable calculus
  • Familiarity with hyperbolas and their equations
  • Knowledge of completing the square technique
  • Basic concepts of graphing conic sections
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of hyperbolas and their standard forms
  • Learn how to graph level curves for multivariable functions
  • Explore the relationship between conic sections and their equations
  • Review the derivation and properties of circles in coordinate geometry
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in calculus, mathematicians interested in conic sections, and anyone seeking to understand the graphical representation of scalar fields.

curious_iza
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Hi this is the question that I am unsure about...

Find and then sketch the level curves of the scalar field T(x,y) = (2x+y)/(x^2 -y^2) for;
T = -1
T = -0.5
T = 0
T = 0.5
T = 1

I am unsure about these answers which I got by subbing each of the values into T(x,y)

1) T = -1

After gathering x and y values on one side of the equation and completeing the square I got;

(x + 1)^2 -(y - 0.5)^2 = 3/4 ...

I am unsure about what kind of graph this is because I know that a hyperbola should be equal to 1 and this isn't.

T = -0.5

For this one I got (x + 2)^2 -(y - (0.5))^2 = (15/4)

T = 0
Finally one I could do :)

y = 2x

T=0.5
(x - 2) ^2 - (y +1)^2 = 3

T = 1
(x - 1)^2 - (y - 1/2)^2 = 3/4

I am pretty sure that I got the equations correct but I would appreciate if someone could help me with;

a) Explaining how I draw this since it is not in the form of a hyperbola ie not = 1.

b) What these mean?
 
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