What is the Differentiation Challenge?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on a mathematical challenge involving the equation $$\frac{x - y}{x + y} = \frac{x + y}{y}$$, where $$x$$ and $$y$$ are real numbers with specific restrictions. Participants are tasked with finding $$\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x}$$ in various forms, such as $$f(x, y)$$ or $$g(x)$$. The discussion emphasizes the enjoyment of problem-solving at different difficulty levels, encouraging participants to engage with the challenge rather than dismiss it as too simple.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus, specifically differentiation
  • Familiarity with algebraic manipulation of equations
  • Knowledge of real number properties and restrictions
  • Experience with mathematical problem-solving and challenge formats
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced differentiation techniques in calculus
  • Study implicit differentiation and its applications
  • Learn about algebraic equations and their graphical interpretations
  • Investigate mathematical challenge forums for problem-solving strategies
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and enthusiasts interested in calculus and algebraic problem-solving will benefit from this discussion.

Theia
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Let's have a snack challenge for a while. ^^

Let $$x$$ and $$y$$ be real numbers (with restrictions $$y \ne 0, \ y \ne -x$$) and $$\frac{x - y}{x + y} = \frac{x + y}{y}$$.

Find $$\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x}$$ in whatever form you like most. I mean, for example forms $$\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = f(x, y)$$ or $$\frac{\mathrm{d}y}{\mathrm{d}x} = g(x)$$ are equally good at this time.

Please remember to use spoiler tags when you run to post the answer! :)
 
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How is this a "challenge"?

Once you have multiplied on both sides by y(x+ y), it is a straight forward Calculus I "implicit differentiation".
 
Last edited by a moderator:
HallsofIvy said:
How is this a "challenge"?

Once you have multiplied on both sides by y(x+ y), it is a straight forward Calculus I "implicit differentiation".

I said this is 'a snack', not 'an afwully complicated thing you need to think about seven years'...
Anyway, then you can show me your answer, right? ^^
 
Theia said:
I said this is 'a snack', not 'an afwully complicated thing you need to think about seven years'...
Anyway, then you can show me your answer, right? ^^

We appreciate challenge problems of virtually any level of difficulty. My advice to everyone is that if you find a posted problem "too easy" to solve, then leave it for those who will be challenged by it and enjoy posting a solution. :D
 
My solution:
$\d y x = \text{Undefined}$

Yummy snack! ;)
 
I like Serena said:
My solution:
$\d y x = \text{Undefined}$

Yummy snack! ;)

That's right! Can you give a short explanation too, please? :D
 
Theia said:
That's right! Can you give a short explanation too, please? :D

Sure! (Bandit)

$x$ and $y$ are given to be real numbers with $y\ne 0$ and $y\ne x$.

We have:
$$\frac{x-y}{x+y}=\frac {x+y}{y} \quad\Rightarrow\quad
(x-y)y=(x+y)^2 \quad\Rightarrow\quad
2y^2+xy+x^2=0 \quad\Rightarrow\quad
y = \frac 14 (-x\pm \sqrt{x^2 - 8x^2}) =\frac 14 x(-1\pm i\sqrt 7)
$$
Since $y\ne 0$, there are no real numbers $x,y$ that satisfy the equation.

Therefore $\d y x$ is not defined anywhere. (Cake)
 
Well done! Thank you! ^^

And now, I'd think I try to be more careful when it comes to 'implicit differentiation'... :D
 

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