Minimize r/(sqrt(2)) Distance from (2r, 0) & (0, 2r)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a point above the circle defined by the equation x² + y² = r² that minimizes the sum of the squares of the distances to the points (2r, 0) and (0, 2r). Participants explore the mathematical formulation and implications of the problem, including symmetry and potential solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the answer to the problem is (r/(sqrt(2)), r/(sqrt(2))) and question why (r, r) is not a valid solution.
  • Concerns are raised about the symmetry of the expression derived from the distance calculations, with some arguing that it should be symmetric with respect to x and y.
  • One participant suggests that the middle of the segment connecting (2r, 0) and (0, 2r) minimizes the expression, noting that the segment does not intersect the circle.
  • Another participant provides a reformulation of the expression and discusses maximizing x + y, leading to the conclusion that x must equal y.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the correct answer or approach to the problem. Participants express differing views on the validity of proposed solutions and the interpretation of the problem's requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem's phrasing may lead to confusion regarding whether the point must be above the circle or on it. Additionally, there are unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions regarding the symmetry of the expressions involved.

leprofece
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find a point above the circle: x2 + y2 = r2 so that the sum of the squares of their distances to points (2r, 0) and (0, 2r) it is the smallest

answer (r/(sqrt(2)), r/(sqrt(2)) )

according to the problem
after elevating to the square
(x-2r)2+y2 +x2+(y-2r)2

Solving
2(x)2-4rx-8ry+2y2

now y2= r-x2

introducing in one and derivating i don't get the answer
because 8 ry must be 8r( sqrt r-x2)
 
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leprofece said:
find a point above the circle: x2 + y2 = r2 so that the sum of the squares of their distances to points (2r, 0) and (0, 2r) it is the smallest

answer (r/(sqrt(2)), r/(sqrt(2)) )
Why not $(r,r)$?

leprofece said:
after elevating to the square
(x-2r)2+y2 +x2+(y-2r)2

Solving
2(x)2-4rx-8ry+2y2
Why is this expression not symmetric w.r.t. $x$ and $y$?
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
Why not $(r,r)$?

Why is this expression not symmetric w.r.t. $x$ and $y$?

I don't know this is my thinking maybe it is easier for you another way
 
You wrote, "Find a point above the circle", but the supposed answer is a point on the circle. Since the segment connecting $(2r,0)$ and $(0,2r)$ does not intersect the circle, the middle of this segment is the point that minimizes the required expression.
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
You wrote, "Find a point above the circle", but the supposed answer is a point on the circle. Since the segment connecting $(2r,0)$ and $(0,2r)$ does not intersect the circle, the middle of this segment is the point that minimizes the required expression.

yEAH IT IS on NOT ABOVE
 
leprofece said:
after elevating to the square
(x-2r)2+y2 +x2+(y-2r)2

Solving
2(x)2-4rx-8ry+2y2
This expression should be
\[
2x^2+2y^2-4r(x+y)
\]
As I said, it is symmetric with respect to $x$ and $y$. Since $x^2+y^2=r^2$, it can be rewritten as $2r^2-4r(x+y)$. Minimizing it is equivalent to maximizing $x+y$. One thing that comes to mind is representing this as $\cos\varphi+\sin\varphi$ where $0\le\varphi<2\pi$. Differentiating this with respect to $\varphi$ and equating to 0, we get $-\sin\varphi+\cos\varphi=0$, or $\tan\varphi=1$, which means $\varphi=\pi/4$ or $\varphi=5\pi/4$. In both cases, $x=y$.
 
Evgeny.Makarov said:
This expression should be
\[
2x^2+2y^2-4r(x+y)
\]
As I said, it is symmetric with respect to $x$ and $y$. Since $x^2+y^2=r^2$, it can be rewritten as $2r^2-4r(x+y)$. Minimizing it is equivalent to maximizing $x+y$. One thing that comes to mind is representing this as $\cos\varphi+\sin\varphi$ where $0\le\varphi<2\pi$. Differentiating this with respect to $\varphi$ and equating to 0, we get $-\sin\varphi+\cos\varphi=0$, or $\tan\varphi=1$, which means $\varphi=\pi/4$ or $\varphi=5\pi/4$. In both cases, $x=y$.

in my book appears I´d really appreciatte that
or I really appreciatte that then
 

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