Calculus Problem: Showing Partial Derivatives Equal Each Other

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In summary, the conversation discusses using a function and its partial derivatives to solve for a specific problem. The first step is to show the relationship between the partial derivatives and the given function. Then, the approach for solving a specific part is discussed. Finally, the solution for that part is shown and checked for errors.
  • #1
Mathman23
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Hi

Given a function

z = f(x,y), where x = r * cos(\phi) and y = r * sin (\phi)

First I show that

[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial r} = \frac{\partial z}{\partial x} cos(\phi) + \frac{\partial z}{\partial y} sin (\phi)[/tex]

and

[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial \phi} = - \frac{\partial z}{\partial x} r \cdot sin(\phi) + \frac{\partial z}{\partial y} r \cdot sin(\phi)[/tex]

Finally I need to show that

[tex](\frac{\partial z}{\partial x})^2 + (\frac{\partial z}{\partial y})^2 = (\frac{\partial z}{\partial r})^2 + \frac{1}{r^2} (\frac{\partial z}{\partial \phi}) ^2[/tex]

How do I approach this part of the problem?

Sincerley

Fred
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Hmm..square both previous equations and add them together, mayhap?
 
  • #3
This is my solution for (b) please look at them at see if I made a mistake:

solving (b)


[tex](\frac{\partial z}{\partial x}^2) ^2 + \frac{1}{r^2} (\frac{\partial z}{\partial \phi})^2 = (\frac{\partial z}{\partial x})^2 \cdot cos ^2 (\phi) + (\frac{\partial z}{\partial y})^2 \cdot sin(\phi) + 2 \frac{\partial z}{\partial x} \cdot \frac{\partial z}{\partial y} sin(\phi) \cdot cos(\phi) + (\frac{\partial z}{\partial x}) ^2 \cdot \frac{r^2 \cdot sin^2 (\phi)}{r^2} + (\frac{\partial z}{\partial y})^2 \cdot \frac{r^2 \cdot cos^2 (\phi)}{r^2} - 2 \frac{\partial z}{\partial x} \cdot \frac{\partial z}{\partial y} \cdot \frac{r^2 sin(\phi) \cdot cos(\phi)}{r^2} = [/tex]

[tex] = (\frac{\partial z}{\partial x})^2 \cdot (cos^2(\phi) + sin^2 (\phi) \cdot (\frac{\partial z}{\partial y})^2 sin^2 (\phi) = (\frac{\partial z}{\partial x})^2 + (\frac{\partial z}{\partial y})^2[/tex]


Sincerely Yours
Fred
 
Last edited:

FAQ: Calculus Problem: Showing Partial Derivatives Equal Each Other

1. What is a partial derivative?

A partial derivative is a mathematical concept used in calculus to calculate the rate of change of a function with respect to one of its variables, while holding all other variables constant. It measures how much the function changes when only one variable changes.

2. How do you show that two partial derivatives are equal to each other?

To show that two partial derivatives are equal to each other, you need to use the rules of differentiation and the chain rule. You will need to take the partial derivatives of the two functions and set them equal to each other, and then solve for the common variable.

3. What is the purpose of showing that two partial derivatives are equal?

Showing that two partial derivatives are equal is important in calculus because it allows us to simplify complex functions and equations. It also helps us to understand the relationship between different variables in a function and how they affect each other.

4. Can you give an example of showing two partial derivatives are equal?

Yes, for example, if we have a function f(x,y) = x^2y + 3xy^2, we can find the partial derivative with respect to x and y as follows:

∂f/∂x = 2xy + 3y^2

∂f/∂y = x^2 + 6xy

If we set these two partial derivatives equal to each other, we get 2xy + 3y^2 = x^2 + 6xy. We can then solve for y in terms of x, and we will have shown that the two partial derivatives are equal.

5. Why is it important to understand partial derivatives in calculus?

Partial derivatives are essential in many areas of mathematics and science, including physics, engineering, and economics. They allow us to analyze and optimize multivariable functions, which are common in real-world problems. Understanding partial derivatives also lays the foundation for more advanced concepts in calculus, such as gradient vectors and multivariable optimization.

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