What Am I Missing in the Chain Rule Calculation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of the Chain Rule in multivariable calculus, specifically in calculating the derivatives of the function \( u(x,y) = v(t,s) \) where \( t = x^2 - y^2 \) and \( s = 2xy \). The user correctly derives the first derivative \( u_x \) but fails to include the mixed derivative term \( 8xyv_{ts} \) in the second derivative \( u_{xx} \). The correct formulation for \( u_{xx} \) should incorporate this term, highlighting the importance of accounting for all mixed partial derivatives in multivariable functions.

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  • Understanding of multivariable calculus concepts, specifically the Chain Rule.
  • Familiarity with partial derivatives and their notation.
  • Knowledge of functions of multiple variables, particularly in the context of calculus.
  • Experience with differentiating composite functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of mixed partial derivatives in multivariable calculus.
  • Study the application of the Chain Rule in functions of several variables.
  • Learn about the implications of the symmetry of second derivatives (Clairaut's theorem).
  • Practice problems involving the differentiation of composite functions to reinforce understanding.
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Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying calculus, as well as educators looking to clarify the application of the Chain Rule in multivariable contexts.

yungman
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[tex]\hbox { Let }\; u(x,y)=v(x^2-y^2,2xy) \;\hbox { and let }\; t=x^2-y^2,\;s=2xy[/tex]

[tex]u_x = 2xv_t \;+\; 2yv_s[/tex]

[tex]u_{xx} = 2v_t + 4x^2 v_{tt} + 8xyv_{ts} + 4y^2 v_{ss}[/tex]

The [itex]u_{yy}[/itex] can be done the same way and is not shown here.



According to Chain Rule:

[tex]u_x = \frac{\partial v}{\partial x} \;=\; \frac{\partial v}{\partial t}\frac{\partial t}{\partial x} \;+\; \frac{\partial v}{\partial s}\frac{\partial s}{\partial x} \;=\; 2x\frac{\partial v}{\partial t} \;+\; 2y\frac{\partial v}{\partial s}[/tex]

[tex]u_{xx} = \frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial x^2} = \frac{\partial}{\partial x}[2x\frac{\partial v}{\partial t} \;+\; 2y\frac{\partial v}{\partial s}] = 4x^2\frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial t^2} \;+\; 2\frac{\partial v}{\partial t} \;+\; 4y^2 \frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial s^2}[/tex]

Where

[tex]\frac{\partial y}{\partial x} = 0[/tex]

Please tell me what I am doing wrong? How do I miss [itex]8xyv_{ts}[/itex] term?
 
Last edited:
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[tex]\frac{\partial}{\partial x} \frac{\partial v}{\partial t} = \frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial t^2}\frac{\partial t}{\partial x} + \frac{\partial^2 v}{\partial s \partial t}\frac{\partial s}{\partial x}[/tex]
 
I see, thanks.
 

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