Show that the gradient of the curve

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The discussion focuses on demonstrating that the gradient of the curve defined by the equation a/x + b/y = 1 is -ay²/bx². Participants confirm the calculation of the derivative dy/dx, leading to the correct gradient expression. The next step involves finding the gradient of the straight line ax + by = 1 and equating it to the curve's gradient. By substituting x = p and y = q, the relationship p = ±q is derived, indicating that at the intersection point, the line and curve share the same gradient. This analysis highlights the connection between the gradients of the curve and the line at the specified point.
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Homework Statement



Show that the gradient of the curve \frac{a}{x}+\frac{b}{y}=1 is -\frac{ay^2}{bx^2}. The point (p,q) lies on both the straight line ax+by=1[/tex] and \frac{a}{x}+\frac{b}{y}=1 where ab =/= 0. Given that, at this point, the line and the curve have the same gradient, show that p=±q.<br /> <br /> <br /> <h2>The Attempt at a Solution</h2><br /> <br /> \frac{a}{x}+\frac{b}{y}=1<br /> <br /> \frac{dy}{dx}=-ax^{-2}-by^{-2}<br /> <br /> -\frac{b}{y^2}\frac{dy}{dx}=\frac{a}{x^2} <br /> <br /> \frac{dy}{dx}=-\frac{ay^2}{bx^2}<br /> <h2>Homework Statement </h2><br /> <br /> Not sure how to calculate the next part.. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <h2>Homework Equations</h2><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <h2>The Attempt at a Solution</h2>
 
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You already did the difficult part.

Now find the gradient of the straight line and equate the two gradients.

The put x = p and y = q.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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