Stationary Points: Finding Stationary Points of f(x,y)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the stationary points of the function f(x,y) = (x^2 + 1/2(xy) + y^2)e^(x+y). Participants are exploring the necessary conditions for stationary points by setting the partial derivatives to zero.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants have attempted to derive the first partial derivatives and set them to zero, leading to a system of equations. Some are exploring the possibility of using the quadratic formula to solve for y in terms of x, while others are considering symmetry in the equations to simplify the problem.

Discussion Status

There are multiple approaches being discussed, with some participants suggesting methods such as substitution and factoring. However, there is no explicit consensus on a single method or solution path, and participants are still seeking guidance on how to proceed with the simultaneous equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the complexity of the equations derived from the derivatives and are questioning the best strategies for solving them. There is an emphasis on the need for pointers rather than complete solutions, in line with homework guidelines.

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Homework Statement


determine the stationary points of the function f(x,y) = (x^2 + 1/2(xy) + y^2)e^(x+y)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


first i got

df/dx= (x^2+(1/2)xy+y^2)e^(x+y)+(2x+(1/2)y)e^(x+y)

df/dy= (x^2+(1/2)xy+y^2)e^(x+y)+((1/2)x+2y)e^(x+y)

i then let them both = 0

and i get

(x^2+2x+(1/2)xy+(1/2)y+y^2)=0

and

(x^2+(1/2)x+(1/2)xy+2y+y^2)=0

i've tried different to solve them simultaniously and then sub back in. I've tried to factorise them which i think i should do but can't seem to get it could anyone give me some pointers please?
 
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Using the quadratic formula you can solve df/dx = 0 as y \in {1/4 (-1 - Sqrt[1 - 32 x - 16 x^2 - 8 xy]), 1/4 (-1 + Sqrt[1 - 32 x - 16 x^2 - 8 xy])}, then sub into df/dy = 0.
 
Last edited:
gtfitzpatrick said:

Homework Statement


determine the stationary points of the function f(x,y) = (x^2 + 1/2(xy) + y^2)e^(x+y)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


first i got

df/dx= (x^2+(1/2)xy+y^2)e^(x+y)+(2x+(1/2)y)e^(x+y)

df/dy= (x^2+(1/2)xy+y^2)e^(x+y)+((1/2)x+2y)e^(x+y)

i then let them both = 0

and i get

(x^2+2x+(1/2)xy+(1/2)y+y^2)=0

and

(x^2+(1/2)x+(1/2)xy+2y+y^2)=0
Subtracting the second from the first gives you (3/2)x- (3/2)y= 0 or y= x. Put that back into either equation (because of the symmetry) gives you x^2+ 2x+ (1/2)x^2+ (1/2)x+ x^2= (5/2)x^2+ (5/2)x= 0 or x(x+ 1)= 0.

i've tried different to solve them simultaniously and then sub back in. I've tried to factorise them which i think i should do but can't seem to get it could anyone give me some pointers please?
 
gtfitzpatrick said:

Homework Statement


determine the stationary points of the function f(x,y) = (x^2 + 1/2(xy) + y^2)e^(x+y)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


first i got

df/dx= (x^2+(1/2)xy+y^2)e^(x+y)+(2x+(1/2)y)e^(x+y)

df/dy= (x^2+(1/2)xy+y^2)e^(x+y)+((1/2)x+2y)e^(x+y)

i then let them both = 0

and i get

(x^2+2x+(1/2)xy+(1/2)y+y^2)=0

and

(x^2+(1/2)x+(1/2)xy+2y+y^2)=0
Subtracting the second from the first gives you (3/2)x- (3/2)y= 0 or y= x. Put that back into either equation (because of the symmetry) gives you x^2+ 2x+ (1/2)x^2+ (1/2)x+ x^2= (5/2)x^2+ (5/2)x= 0 or x(x+ 1)= 0.

i've tried different to solve them simultaniously and then sub back in. I've tried to factorise them which i think i should do but can't seem to get it could anyone give me some pointers please?
 

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