Solving a Partial Derivative Problem with Substitution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the partial derivative of a function defined as z = ln(x+y) with respect to t, where x and y are expressed in terms of s and t. Participants are exploring the implications of substituting values and applying the chain rule for partial derivatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to apply the chain rule for partial derivatives and are questioning how to handle the variables s and t in their substitutions. There is uncertainty about the correct approach to take when substituting and differentiating.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into using the chain rule, while others express confusion regarding the substitution of variables and the resulting calculations. The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations being explored without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants note confusion regarding the roles of s and t in the problem setup, and there is mention of specific values being substituted that lead to zero derivatives, raising questions about the validity of those steps.

Derill03
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Find par(z)/par(t) at s=1, t=0
when z= ln(x+y), x=s+t, y=s-t

Not sure how to approach cause if i plug in s's and t's i get an answer of 0 because taking the partial with respect to t yields a zero. Can someone shed some light on how to correctly solve?

par(z)/par(t) = partial derivative of z with respect to t
 
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find [tex]\frac{\partial{z}}{\partial{x}} \frac{\partial{x}}{\partial{t}}}[/tex] and [tex]\frac{\partial{z}}{\partial{y}} \frac{\partial{y}}{\partial{t}}[/tex]
 
The chain rule for partial derivatives is
[tex]\frac{\partial z}{\partial t}= \frac{\partial z}{\partial x}\frac{\partial x}{\partial t}+ \frac{\partial z}{\partial y}\frac{\partial y}{\partial t}[/tex]
 
I just don't know how to deal with it in the form its in. The s and t are what are confusing me, can u give me some sort of an example?

The way i did it is substitute s and t for y and x so i get ln(2s) but when u take partial with respect to t you get 0? is this correct?
 

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