Second derivatives using implicit differentiation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding second derivatives using implicit differentiation, specifically in the context of a function defined by an ellipse equation, F(x,y)=4x^2+y^2-25=0. Participants explore the application of multivariable calculus concepts to derive these derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find the second derivative using implicit differentiation and expresses uncertainty about applying the chain rule. Other participants suggest alternative methods, including the use of the quotient rule and further implicit differentiation.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different approaches to derive the second derivative, with some suggesting that the original poster's method may not be necessary. There is a mix of interpretations regarding the use of partial derivatives versus total derivatives in this context.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the function being treated as a function of one variable, which may influence the approach to differentiation. The discussion also reflects varying levels of familiarity with implicit differentiation techniques among participants.

Telemachus
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Hi there. Well, I wanted to know how to find the second derivatives of a function using implicit differentiation. Is it possible? I think it is. I think I must use the chain rule somehow, but I don't know how... I'm in multivariable calculus since the function I'm going to use could be seen as a function of only one variable.

An ellipse: [tex]F(x,y)=4x^2+y^2-25=0[/tex]

So we have the partial derivatives:
[tex]F_x=8x[/tex], [tex]F_y=2y[/tex]
[tex]F_{xx}=8[/tex], [tex]F_{yy}=2[/tex]

So then, using implicit differentiation:

[tex]\frac{{\partial x}}{{\partial y}}=-\displaystyle\frac{\frac{{\partial F}}{{\partial y}}}{\frac{{\partial F}}{{\partial x}}}=\displaystyle\frac{-y}{4x}[/tex]

But now if I want to find [tex]\frac{{\partial^2 x}}{{\partial y^2}}[/tex] how should I proceed?
 
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I believe you're going about this in the wrong way, since partial derivatives are not required.

If 4x2 + y2 + 25 = 0,
then 8x + 2y*y' = 0 ==> y' = -4x/y

To get y'', simply take the derivative with respect to x of -4x/y, using the quotient rule and the chain rule.
 
Or, much the same way, but, I think, a bit more in keeping with the spirit of "implicit differentiation", from [itex]4x^2+ y^2+ 25= 0[/itex], [itex]8x+ 2y y'= 0[/itex] and differentiating again, [itex]8+ 2y'(y')+ 2yy"=[/itex][itex]8+ 2y'^2+ 2yy"= 0[/itex] and solve that for y".
 
Thanks!
 

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