Find x,y Coordinates of Stationary Point: 2x^2-2xy+y^2+2x+5

In summary, the function z(x,y) has a stationary point at (-1,-1) and it is a global minimum with a value of 4.
  • #1
MarkFL
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Here is the question:

Find the (x; y) coordinates of the stationary point of: z(x,y) = 2x^2 - 2xy + y^2 + 2x + 5 and find the natu?


Find the (x; y) coordinates of the stationary point of:

z(x,y) = 2x^2 - 2xy + y^2 + 2x + 5

and find the nature of the stationary point.

I have posted a link there to this thread so the OP can view my work.
 
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  • #2
Hello Krazy G,

We are given the function:

\(\displaystyle z(x,y)=2x^2-2xy+y^2+2x+5\)

First, we want to find the critical points by equating the first partials to zero:

\(\displaystyle z_x(x,y)=4x-2y+2=0\)

\(\displaystyle z_y(x,y)=-2x+2y=0\)

The second equation implies $y=x$, and substitution for $y$ into the first equation yields:

\(\displaystyle x=-1\)

and so the critical point is:

\(\displaystyle (x,y)=(-1,-1)\)

Now, to determine the nature of this critical point we may utilize the second partials test for relative extrema.

\(\displaystyle D(x,y)=z_{xx}(x,y)z_{yy}(x,y)-\left[z_{xy}(x,y) \right]^2=4\cdot2-(-2)^2=4\)

Since \(\displaystyle z_{xx}(x,y)=4>0\) and \(\displaystyle D(x,y)=4>0\), then we conclude that the critical value is the global minimum. Hence:

\(\displaystyle z_{\min}=z(-1,-1)=4\)
 

FAQ: Find x,y Coordinates of Stationary Point: 2x^2-2xy+y^2+2x+5

What is a stationary point?

A stationary point, also known as a critical point, is a point on a curve where the tangent line is horizontal, meaning that the slope of the curve is equal to zero. This point represents a potential maximum or minimum on the curve.

How do you find the coordinates of a stationary point?

To find the coordinates of a stationary point, we must first find the derivative of the given function. Then, we set the derivative equal to zero and solve for x and y. The resulting values for x and y will be the coordinates of the stationary point.

What is the significance of finding stationary points?

Finding stationary points is important because they represent potential maximum or minimum points on a curve. This information can be useful in optimizing functions and solving real-world problems.

Can a function have more than one stationary point?

Yes, a function can have multiple stationary points, depending on the complexity of the function. For example, a cubic function can have up to three stationary points.

How do you determine if a stationary point is a maximum or minimum?

To determine if a stationary point is a maximum or minimum, we can use the second derivative test. If the second derivative is positive at the stationary point, it is a minimum, and if the second derivative is negative, it is a maximum. If the second derivative is zero, further analysis is needed to determine the nature of the stationary point.

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