# Lagrange multiplier

1. Nov 28, 2009

### plexus0208

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Use the Lagrange Multiplier method to find the maximum and minimum values of x2 − 2xy + 7y2 on the ellipse x2 + 4y2 = 1.

2. Relevant equations
Lagrange multiplier method

3. The attempt at a solution
L(x,y,z,λ) = x2 − 2xy + 7y2 - λ(x2 + 4y2 - 1)
Find Lx, Ly, Lλ
Then, solve for x and y?

Last edited: Nov 28, 2009
2. Nov 28, 2009

### ideasrule

Where did you get the L(x,y,z,λ)? You don't need the z in there because we're dealing with functions of x and y, not functions of x, y, and z.

Also, λ is a constant: you don't need to solve for Lλ. You don't need to solve for Lz either because there's no such variable as z. Just set Lx=0 and Ly=0 and solve. Don't forget to satisfy the initial constraint of x^2+4y^2=1!

3. Nov 28, 2009

### HallsofIvy

Staff Emeritus
Just an added note: some people are taught to find $L_\lambda$. Because if we are trying to extremize F(x) subject to the constraint G(x)= 0, we look at $L= F(x)+ \lambda G(x)$, $L_{\lamba}= G(x)= 0$ is just the constraint again.

4. Nov 28, 2009

### plexus0208

@ideasrule: Sorry, ignore the "z."
@HallsofIvy: Thanks. And yes, that's how I learned it.

Also, once I find the critical points, do I just plug them back into the original function I want to extremize to see if it's a max or min?