Maximizing f(x,y) on the circle x^2 + y^2 = 12

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on maximizing the function f(x,y) = x^2y under the constraint of the circle defined by x^2 + y^2 = 12. Participants emphasize the use of the method of Lagrange multipliers, specifically solving for the variable lambda to eliminate it from the equations. The key insight is that the gradient of f must be perpendicular to the gradient of the constraint, leading to the identification of intersection points between the derived curve and the circle. This approach effectively simplifies the problem to finding critical points on the constraint boundary.

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Homework Statement

Maximize the function f(x,y) = x^2y constrained by the circle x^2 + y^2 = 12





The attempt at a solution

I already went as far as solving lambda in my work; however, it's still a variable so I could not plug it into solve for x and y.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v407/dazedoutpinoy/Calculus001.jpg"
 
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(it took me a while to understand the meaning of (i) and (j), ...)

From the two equations you have writen, you can now eleminate lambda.
In this way, you will get a curve (two lines actually) where the gradient of f is perpendicular to circles centered on the origin.
(Df = lambda Dg means that as you know: the gradient of f should have no finite component along the given circle)

Then, you should simply find out the intersection of this curve with the particular circle you are targeting.
 

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