Proving Differentiability of f(x,y) at (0,0)

  • Thread starter Thread starter Dvsdvs
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Differentiability
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the differentiability of the function f(x,y) = (p(x) + q(y)) / (x^2 + y^2) at the point (0,0), where f(0,0) is defined as 0. Participants are exploring the relationship between differentiability and the continuity of partial derivatives in the context of functions of several variables.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the definition of differentiability for functions of multiple variables and how it relates to the continuity of partial derivatives. There is a focus on the rigorous proof needed to establish the relationship between differentiability and the continuity of the partial derivatives.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants questioning definitions and exploring the implications of differentiability. Some have provided insights into the proof direction, particularly regarding the existence of a tangent plane and limits, but there is no consensus on how to approach the proof in the reverse direction.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and implications of differentiability and continuity, indicating a need for clarity on these concepts. There is mention of previous work done in part B of the question, which may influence the current discussion.

Dvsdvs
Messages
24
Reaction score
0
Ok, so I have f(x,y)=(p(x)+q(y))/(x^2+y^2) where (x,y)NOT=0 and f(0,0)=0. the basic idea of the function is that the numerator contains 2 polynomials>2nd order. and the denominator has a Xsquared+ysquared. I have to prove that if f(x,y) is differentiable at (0,0) then its partial derivatives fx and fy are both continous. I need something rigorous i was thinking of doing something where the tangent h(x,y) approximates f(x,y) as dx, dy go to 0. and then from there... IDK i need all help i can get. Thank you in advance
 
Physics news on Phys.org


What is the definition of "differentiable" at a point, for functions of several variables?
 


that the partial derivatives are continuous in a neighborhood BUT that proves that if partial derivs are cont., then the function is differentiable. I need to prove that if its differentiable, the partials are continous
 


Then I ask again, "What is the definition of "differentiable" at a point, for functions of several variables?:"

A definition is always an "if and only if" statement so what you give is clearly NOT a definition.
 


hmmm. A function is differentiable at a point if and only if Fx and Fy are continous? i still don't know where to start the proof for the generic problem though.
 
Last edited:


In part B of this question i proved that if Fx and Fy are continuous then f(x,y) is differentiable because a tangent plane exists there and i used lim at (0,0) (h(x,y)-f(x,y))/sqroot(x^2+Y^2) goes to 0 to complete the proof that it is differentiable. I don't know why I can't go the other way.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K