Optimization using Lagrange multipliers

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the optimization of the function f(x, y) = x² + y² subject to the constraint g(x, y) = x⁴ + y⁴ = 2, using the method of Lagrange multipliers. Participants are exploring how to determine the maximum and minimum values of the function under this constraint.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the gradients of the functions and the application of the Lagrange multiplier method. There is confusion regarding the constraint and whether it was correctly stated. Some participants question the setup of the problem and the interpretation of the functions involved.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the problem, with some participants identifying potential points of interest for maximum values. However, there is uncertainty regarding the minimum value, and the discussion reflects a lack of consensus on how to proceed with finding it.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes that the constraint function was initially omitted, which may affect the interpretation of the problem. There is also mention of an answer key indicating a minimum value of √2, but the method to arrive at this is unclear to some participants.

tinkus
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1. Homework Statement [/b]

f[tex]\left(x,y\right)[/tex] = x^2 +y^2
g[tex]\left(x,y\right)[/tex] = x^4+y^4 = 2
Find the maximum and minimum using Lagrange multiplier

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



grad f = 2xi +2yj
grad g= 4x^3i + 4y^3j

grad f= λ grad g
2x=4x^3λ and 2y= 4y^3λ
2x^2 = 2y^2
x^2=y^2
x= [tex]\pm[/tex]y
x^4+x^4=2
x=y= [tex]\pm1[/tex]
max= 1+1=2 @ [tex]\left(1,1\right)[/tex] and [tex]\left(-1,-1\right)[/tex]

I don't know how to find the min and not sure about the max above



 
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tinkus said:
1. Homework Statement [/b]

f[tex]\left(x,y\right)[/tex] = x^2 +y^2
g[tex]\left(x,y\right)[/tex] = x^4+y^4
Find the maximum and minimum using Lagrange multiplier
My recomendation is that you go back and read the problem carefully! What you have written here makes no sense. Usually you use Lagrange multiplier method maximize or minimize a function subject to some constraint. You have two functions with no constraint. Is one of those, either f or g, supposed to be equal to a number?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



grad f = 2xi +2yj
grad g= 4x^3i + 4y^3j

grad f= λ grad g
2x=4x^3λ and 2y= 4y^3λ
2x^2 = 2y^2
x^2=y^2
x= [tex]\pm[/tex]y
x^4+x^4=2
x=y= [tex]\pm1[/tex]
max= 1+1=2 @ [tex]\left(1,1\right)[/tex] and [tex]\left(-1,-1\right)[/tex]

I don't know how to find the min and not sure about the max above
 


yes the constraint function is incorrect, i ommitted =2
 


You have found that y2= x2 and you know that [itex]x^4+ y^4= 2[/itex]. That tells you that [itex]x= \pm 1[/itex] and [itex]x= \pm 1[/itex]. That gives you four possible points: (1, 1), (-1, -1), (1, -1), and (-1, 1). You might want to consider whether there are both maximum and mimimum values.
 


the points all equal 2(max). i still need to find the min which according to the answer key is sqrt2, I don't know how to get that.
 

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