Solving Implicit Function: Tangent Point & Level Curve Equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the tangent point and level curve equation for the function \(f(x,y) = x + 4y^2\) that tangents the curve \(y = \frac{8}{x}\) in the first quadrant. The solution involves differentiating both functions to find their derivatives, setting them equal to each other, and solving for the coordinates of the tangent point. The final results indicate that the tangent point is at \(x = 8\), \(y = 1\), and the constant \(k\) for the level curve is \(12\).

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Yankel
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Hello all,

I need some help with this one, I do not have a clue how to even begin.

the level curve of

\[f(x,y)=x+4y^{2}\]

tangents the function

\[y=\frac{8}{x}\]

in a point at the first quarter. What is the tangent point, what is the equation of the level curve ?

This question need to involve implicit functions. I don't get it... :confused:

thanks !
 
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Yankel said:
Hello all,

I need some help with this one, I do not have a clue how to even begin.

the level curve of

\[f(x,y)=x+4y^{2}\]

tangents the function

\[y=\frac{8}{x}\]

in a point at the first quarter. What is the tangent point, what is the equation of the level curve ?

This question need to involve implicit functions. I don't get it... :confused:

thanks !
A level curve of $f(x,y)$ is the set of points at which $f(x,y)$ takes a constant value $k$ say. So start with the equation $x+4y^2=k$, and differentiate it implicitly to get an expression for $y'.$ Next, differentiate $y=8/x$ to get another expression for $y'$. If the two curves are tangent to each other, then they must have the same value for $y'$ at that point. So put the two expressions for $y'$ equal to each other and you will get an equation for the point $(x,y)$. Use that together with the equation $y=8/x$ to find $x$ and $y$. Finally, use the equation $x+4y^2=k$ to find $k$.
 
Thank you !

Did I do it correctly ?

the implicit derivative is:

\[\frac{dy}{dx}=-\frac{1}{8y}\]

The immediate derivative is:

\[y'=-\frac{8}{x^{2}}\]

leading to x=8, y=1 and k=12 ?

Thanks for your explanation, very helpful.
 

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