What is fx(0,1) in Partial Differentiation for f(x,y)=2e^(x^2y)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the partial derivative fx(0,1) for the function f(x,y)=2e^(x^2y). Participants are exploring the correct application of partial differentiation techniques and addressing a misunderstanding related to the evaluation of the derivative at a specific point.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant initially calculates fx(0,1) as 1, based on their interpretation of the derivative.
  • Another participant clarifies that when performing partial differentiation with respect to x, y should be treated as a constant, leading to a different result.
  • A later reply suggests that the correct application of the chain rule should yield a final result of 0 when evaluated at the point (0,1).
  • There is a discussion about the correct expression for the function, with some confusion between 2e^{x^{2y}} and 2e^{x^2y}.
  • Participants acknowledge the error in the initial calculation and express realization of the correct approach based on the feedback received.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the correct method for calculating the partial derivative, but there is initial disagreement regarding the evaluation at the specific point and the interpretation of the function's expression.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the application of the chain rule and the treatment of variables during differentiation, which may affect their calculations. The discussion does not resolve all misunderstandings, particularly regarding notation and assumptions in the differentiation process.

Mitchtwitchita
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f(x,y)=2e^(x^2y), then fx(0,1) = ?

fx = 4xye^(x^2y)
=4(0)(1)e^(0)(1)
=e^0
=1?

I'm told that I'm getting this question wrong but don't know how. Can anybody please help show me what I'm doing wrong on this one?
 
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You are doing partial differentiation with respect to x, so you can treat y as a constant.

It's just simply using the chain rule and [itex](e^x)' = e^x[/itex].

If you do that correctly you should get up to [itex]2 \cdot ( 2y \cdot x^{2y-1} ) \exp (x^{2y})[/itex].

The x term is a nice fat zero, giving the final result of 0.
 
Crap! I see now. Thanks Gib.
 
Mitchtwitchita said:
f(x,y)=2e^(x^2y), then fx(0,1) = ?

fx = 4xye^(x^2y)
=4(0)(1)e^(0)(1)
=e^0
=1?

I'm told that I'm getting this question wrong but don't know how. Can anybody please help show me what I'm doing wrong on this one?
Is that
[tex]2e^{x^{2y}}[/tex]
as Gib Z assumed or
[tex]2e^{x^2y}[/tex]
which is what I would assume?
If it is the latter then
[tex]f_x= 4xye^{x^2y}[/tex]
as you have. Then [itex]f_x(0,1)= 4(0)(1)e^{(0)(1)}= 0[/itex], not 1, because of the "0" multiplying the exponential.
 
Damn i just realized that :( Looking at his working it looks like you're right Halls =] Sorry guys.
 
It was the latter. But I realized what I was doing wrong from Gib's reply. Thanks guys!
 

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