Lagrange multipliers and combinations of points

In summary, Lagrange multipliers are a mathematical tool used in optimization to find the maximum or minimum value of a function while satisfying a set of constraints. They work by finding points where the gradient of the objective function is parallel to the gradient of the constraint function, which can be found by solving a set of equations known as the Lagrange equations. They can be used for both maximizing and minimizing a function, and have real-world applications in various fields such as economics, engineering, and physics. They can also be used with any number of constraints, although it may become more complex as the number increases.
  • #1
Miike012
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I was wondering how they got all the different combinations of points? Why can't they just put

(+-√2,+-1,+-√(2/3)) ?
 

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  • #2
Miike012 said:
I was wondering how they got all the different combinations of points? Why can't they just put

(+-√2,+-1,+-√(2/3)) ?

When y = +1 there are two values of x and z, and when y = -1 there are two values of x and z, making a total of 8 combinations.

RGV
 
  • #3
What you wrote, (+-√2,+-1,+-√(2/3)), would, by the standard conventions, be interpreted as two points, (+√2,+1,+√(2/3)) and (-√2,-1,-√(2/3))
 

1. What are Lagrange multipliers and why are they important in mathematical optimization?

Lagrange multipliers are a mathematical tool used to find the maximum or minimum value of a function subject to a set of constraints. They are important in optimization because they allow us to solve problems where we need to optimize a function while satisfying certain constraints.

2. How do Lagrange multipliers work?

The basic idea behind Lagrange multipliers is to find the points where the gradient of the objective function is parallel to the gradient of the constraint function. This can be achieved by setting up a system of equations known as the Lagrange equations and solving for the Lagrange multipliers.

3. Can Lagrange multipliers be used for both maximizing and minimizing a function?

Yes, Lagrange multipliers can be used for both maximizing and minimizing a function. It depends on the specific problem and the constraints involved. In some cases, the maximum or minimum value may be found at the same point.

4. What are some real-world applications of Lagrange multipliers?

Lagrange multipliers have various real-world applications, such as in economics, engineering, and physics. They can be used to optimize production processes, minimize costs, and design efficient structures. They are also used in physics to find the equilibrium points of a system.

5. Can Lagrange multipliers be used with more than two constraints?

Yes, Lagrange multipliers can be used with any number of constraints. The general formula involves the use of a Lagrange multiplier for each constraint. This can become more complex and challenging to solve as the number of constraints increases, but the same principles still apply.

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