Lagrange Multipliers - unknown values

In summary, using Lagrange Multipliers, the maximum and minimum values of f(x,y) are found subject to the given constraint of x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = 1. The solution involves setting the gradient of f equal to lambda times the gradient of the constraint and solving for x, y, and z. The possible values for lambda and the corresponding values for x, y, and z are found using the constraint equation.
  • #1
maks4
36
0

Homework Statement


Using Lagrange Multipliers, we are to find the maximum and minimum values of f(x,y) subject to the given constraint


Homework Equations


f(x,y,z) = x^2 - 2y + 2z^2, constraint: x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = 1

The Attempt at a Solution


grad f = lambda*grad g
(2x, -2, 4z) = lambda(2x, 2y, 2z)
therefore: 2x = lambda2x
-2 = lambda2y
4z = lambda2z

Now i can see how x and z can both equal 0, and how lambda can equal 1, and how y eventually equals -1 and f(0,-1,0)=2, yet in the solutions there is another part to it where it says
OR, Lambda = 2, y = -1/2, x = 0, z= +- sqrt(3)/2. <---i do not have any idea how these values came to be, no idea at all. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
If

[tex]4z = 2z \lambda[/tex] then you get that either z=0, or if z is non-zero, it must be lambda=2. Then you just work from there - y comes easily next, followed up by x, and then using the constraint to solve for what z actually is
 
  • #3
^^I see it now then, thank you.
 

What are Lagrange Multipliers?

Lagrange Multipliers are a mathematical technique used to find the maximum or minimum value of a function subject to a set of constraints. They involve finding the critical points of a function by setting its partial derivatives equal to the partial derivatives of the constraint function multiplied by a constant factor called the Lagrange multiplier.

How do Lagrange Multipliers work?

Lagrange Multipliers work by finding the critical points of a function that satisfy the constraint equation. This is done by setting up a system of equations where the partial derivatives of the function are equal to the partial derivatives of the constraint function multiplied by the Lagrange multiplier. The solutions to this system of equations give the points where the function has a maximum or minimum value subject to the constraint.

When should I use Lagrange Multipliers?

Lagrange Multipliers are useful when trying to optimize a function subject to a set of constraints. They can be used in a variety of fields such as economics, engineering, and physics to solve optimization problems.

What is the significance of the Lagrange multiplier?

The Lagrange multiplier is a constant factor that is used to incorporate the constraint into the optimization problem. It helps to find the critical points of the function that satisfy the constraint, allowing for the maximum or minimum value of the function to be determined.

What are some common misconceptions about Lagrange Multipliers?

One common misconception about Lagrange Multipliers is that they can only be used for single-variable functions. In reality, they can be used for multi-variable functions with multiple constraints. Another misconception is that the Lagrange multiplier always represents the slope of the constraint function. This is not always the case and the value of the Lagrange multiplier can vary depending on the problem.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
467
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
541
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
851
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
757
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top