Multivariable functions - chain rule

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around multivariable functions and the application of the chain rule in calculus. Participants are addressing two main problems: finding the derivative dz/dt for a function defined in terms of x and t, and proving a relationship involving partial derivatives of a function z=f(u,v) where u and v are defined in terms of x and y.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the use of the product rule and implicit differentiation to find dz/dt. There is discussion about the correct transcription of the second question and the definitions of u and v. Some participants express confusion regarding how to derive partial derivatives when z is expressed as a function of u and v without a specific functional form provided.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on using the product rule and implicit differentiation for the first problem. There is ongoing clarification regarding the definitions of u and v in the second problem, with multiple interpretations being explored. Participants are actively questioning assumptions and working through their reasoning without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the correct forms of u and v, with conflicting information presented by different participants. Additionally, there are references to textbook solutions that may not align with the participants' calculations, leading to further questioning of the problem setup.

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Homework Statement



Since both my questions are on the same topic, i'll throw them both in here

1. Find dz/dt for z=(x^2)(t^2), x^2+3xt+2t^2=1

2. Show that if u=xy, v=xy and z=f(u,v) then:
x.dz/dx-y.dz/dy=(x-y)dz/dv

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



1. I only know how to do this when I have something like:

z=x+y, x=t+..., y=t+...

2. I realize that after I get the partial derivatives I just have to substitute back to prove this, but I'm not sure how to get the derivatives. I think it's the z=f(u,v) that has me lost
 
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For 1. find dz/dt using the product rule. Then you realize you need dx/dt. Find this by implicitly differentiating the second expression. For the second one review the chain rule for partial derivatives. But it looks to me like the left hand side of the expression you want to prove evaluates to zero. Are you sure you transcribed that right?
 
The second question seems wrong!
Is this from Glyn james and that#2 has two parts.. and is like at the bottom of the page on left side column?
One of them should be x+y or x-y
 
You're right. It should be u=x+y

This still doesn't help me though. I may be wrong, but I've got:

dz/dx=dz/du.du/dx+dz/dv.dv/dx

dz/dy=dz/du.du/dy+dz/dv.dv/dy

as my partial fractions. But how do I get my dz/du and dz/dv when I have z=f(u,v) and not, for example, z=f(u,v)=2u+3v^2 - I'm lost without this little equation on the end like in previous problems I've done.

Also, I don't think I've understood your explanation of my first question properly. I tried:

dz/dt=dz/dx.dx/dt

dz/dx=2xt^2
dx/dt=(-3x-4t)/(2x+3t)

And therefore:

dz/dt=(-6(x^2)(t^2)-8xt^3)/(2x+3t)

but my textbook's telling me it should be:

4xt(x^2-2t^2)/(2x+3t)
 
\frac{dz}{dt} = \frac{\partial z}{\partial x}\frac{\partial x}{\partial t} \ + \ \frac{\partial z}{\partial y}\frac{\partial y}{\partial t}

Let y=t^2.

Hence \frac{dz}{dt} = 2xt^2 \left( \frac{-3x-4t}{2x+3t} \right) + x^2(2t)

Just simplify the above and you're done.

For the 2nd question, is it supposed to be u=xy, v=x+y? I can get the answer if so, but not if the values of u and v are switched as you have put it.
 
My sheet's telling me it should be u=x+y, v=xy, but let's just say it's u=xy and v=x+y for the hell of it. How would you go about solving this problem now?
 
I don't know if you have copied the question wrongly or if there is something wrong with my working, but here it is:

\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} = \frac{\partial z}{\partial u} \frac{\partial u}{\partial x} \ + \ \frac{\partial z}{\partial v} \frac{\partial v}{\partial x} = \frac{\partial z}{\partial u} + y\frac{\partial z}{\partial v}

\frac{\partial z}{\partial y} = \frac{\partial z}{\partial u} \frac{\partial u}{\partial y} \ + \ \frac{\partial z}{\partial v} \frac{\partial v}{\partial y} \ = \ \frac{\partial z}{\partial u} \ + \ x \frac{\partial z}{\partial v}

\frac{\partial u}{\partial x} = 1 \\ \frac{\partial u}{\partial y} = 1
\frac{\partial v}{\partial x} = y \\ \frac{\partial v}{\partial y} = x

Hence:

x\frac{\partial z}{\partial x} - y\frac{\partial z}{\partial y} = (x-y)\frac{\partial z}{\partial u}
 

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