Partial Derivatives (Chain Rule)

AI Thread Summary
To find the partial derivatives of w = y^2 + xz with respect to r and theta, the original poster provided calculations for (partial w)/(partial r) and (partial w)/(partial theta). The responses indicated that the answers were correct but suggested replacing x and y with their definitions in cylindrical coordinates for clarity. It was emphasized that converting all variables to cylindrical coordinates before differentiation simplifies the process. The discussion highlights the importance of consistent variable representation in partial derivative calculations. Proper conversion ensures accuracy in results when applying the chain rule in multivariable calculus.
DeadxBunny
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Original question:

Let w = y^2 + xz. If x = rcos(theta), y = rsin(theta), and z = z, find (partial w)/(partial r) and (partial w)/(partial theta).

Could someone please check my answers?

(partial w)/(partial r) = zcos(theta) + 2ysin(theta)

(partial w)/(partial theta) = -rzsin(theta) + 2rycos(theta)

Thank you!
 
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The results are outstanding.They would be perfect if u replaced in the RHS of each equality "x" and "y" through their new definitions.Only that way it could be said u made a change of variable and in the differentiations u took it into consideration.
 
Looks correct. Usually when dealing with cylindrical coors, one converts all variables over. Meaning, it is a bit easier to convert all x's and y's to cylindrical coors then do the partial derivatives.
 
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