Critical points of function in 3 variables

In summary, to determine if a critical point is a minimum, maximum, or saddle point for a function of three or more variables, you must look at the eigenvalues of the Hessian matrix at that point. If all eigenvalues are positive, it is a minimum; if all negative, it is a maximum; if some are positive and some are negative, it is a saddle point. If any eigenvalues are zero, the test is inconclusive. The Hessian matrix is a square matrix containing the second partial derivatives of the function, with a size of n by n, where n is the number of variables.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


I have the scalar function
[tex]T(r)= 2x^{2} - 4x +y^2 +4y-3z^{2}[/tex] (r is obviously a vector)
I have the critical point (1,-2,0) but I'm not sure how to work out if its a min/max/saddle. I'm familiar with doing it for functions in 2 variables.
 
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  • #2
No, for functions of 3+ variables, you have to look at the eigenvalues of the Hessian matrix at the critical points.

If all eigenvalues are positive, then crit. pt. is a minimum. If all negative, then crit. pt. is a maximum. If some of the eigenvalues are negative while the rest are positive, then the crit. pt. is a saddle point. If any of the eigenvalues are equal to zero, then our test is inconclusive.
 
  • #3
Oh, and the Hessian matrix is the nxn matrix of 2nd partial deriv's of your function, where n is the number of variables (3 in your case). Look it up on wiki if you're unfamiliar.
 
  • #4
Ok thanks. I edited the question while you were replying, but I understand. To anyone else this will look a mess.
 

FAQ: Critical points of function in 3 variables

What are critical points of function in 3 variables?

Critical points of function in 3 variables are points where the partial derivatives of the function become zero. These points are important in determining the behavior of the function and can be used to find maximum, minimum, or saddle points.

How are critical points of function in 3 variables calculated?

To calculate the critical points of function in 3 variables, the partial derivatives of the function with respect to each variable are set equal to zero and solved simultaneously. This results in a system of equations that can be solved to find the critical points.

What is the significance of critical points of function in 3 variables?

Critical points of function in 3 variables can indicate points of maximum, minimum, or saddle points on a graph. They can also be used to determine the behavior of the function, such as whether it is increasing or decreasing in a certain direction.

Can a function have multiple critical points in 3 variables?

Yes, a function can have multiple critical points in 3 variables. These points can be located at different coordinates and have different values for the function. It is important to consider all critical points when analyzing the behavior of a function.

How are critical points of function in 3 variables used in real-world applications?

Critical points of function in 3 variables are used in various fields of science and engineering, such as physics, economics, and biology. They can help in optimization problems, such as finding the most efficient way to use resources or maximizing profits. They can also be used to model real-world phenomena and analyze their behavior.

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