Exploring the Second Partials Chain Rule in Multivariable Calculus

In summary, the conversation discusses the regular multivariable chain rule and whether there are formulas for the second partials u_{xx}, u_{xy}, and u_{yy}. The summary states that using the product rule, u_{xx} can be found to be u_{vx}v_x + u_vv_{xx} + u_{wx}w_x + u_ww_{xx}, with u_{vx} possibly being u_{vv}v_x + u_{vw}w_x.
  • #1
jbusc
211
0
This is a stupid question but...

The regular multivariable chain rule is:

[tex]u_x = u_v v_x + u_w w_x[/tex] and [tex]u_y = u_v v_y + u_w w_y[/tex] where [tex]u(v(x, y), w(x, y))[/tex]

Now, are there formulae for the second partials [tex]u_{xx}, u_{xy}, u_{yy}[/tex]

I just want to check myself (this isn't a homework problem, though it is study for a class) Thanks
 
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  • #2
Easy, just use product rule:

[tex]u_{xx} = (u_x)_x = (u_vv_x + u_ww_x)_x = u_{vx}v_x + u_vv_{xx} + u_{wx}w_x + u_ww_{xx}[/tex]
 
  • #3
AKG said:
Easy, just use product rule:

[tex]u_{xx} = (u_x)_x = (u_vv_x + u_ww_x)_x = u_{vx}v_x + u_vv_{xx} + u_{wx}w_x + u_ww_{xx}[/tex]

If I recall correctly though, [tex]u_{vx}[/tex] is really [tex]u_{vv}v_x + u_{vw}w_x[/tex]
 
  • #4
Yeah, it probably is.
 
  • #5
Hmm, yeah. I knew it was straightforward, but it seemed too simple for some reason.
 

1. What is the Second Partials Chain Rule?

The Second Partials Chain Rule is a mathematical rule used in multivariable calculus to find the second derivative of a function with respect to two different independent variables. It is used when the two variables are related by a third variable.

2. How is the Second Partials Chain Rule derived?

The Second Partials Chain Rule is derived from the Chain Rule, which is used to find the derivative of a composite function. By applying the Chain Rule twice, the Second Partials Chain Rule is obtained.

3. When is the Second Partials Chain Rule used?

The Second Partials Chain Rule is used when finding the second derivative of a function with respect to two independent variables that are related by a third variable. It is often used in physics, engineering, and economics to analyze systems with multiple variables.

4. What is an example of using the Second Partials Chain Rule?

An example of using the Second Partials Chain Rule is when finding the acceleration of a moving object in two dimensions. The acceleration is a function of time and the position of the object, which are related by the velocity of the object. By applying the Second Partials Chain Rule, the second derivative of the position function can be found to determine the acceleration.

5. Are there any limitations to the Second Partials Chain Rule?

Yes, there are limitations to the Second Partials Chain Rule. It can only be applied to functions that are twice differentiable, meaning that the first and second derivatives exist and are continuous. Additionally, it can only be used for functions with two independent variables.

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