Finding the maximum and minimum values

In summary, the maximum and minimum values of f(x,y)=x+2y on the disk x^2+y^2 ≤ 1 can be found by differentiating the function and solving for points where the derivative is 0 on the boundary of the disk. The endpoints (-1,0) and (1,0) should also be included in the evaluation.
  • #1
Kork
33
0
I am having trouble with getting started with this one:

Find the maximum and minimum values of f(x,y)=x+2y on the disk x^2+y^2 ≤ 1

I have started like this:
fx(x,y) = 1
fy(x,y) = 2

and then I am lost...How do I solve it?
 
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  • #2
well, seeing as f(x,y)=0 is simply a line, you can find the intersection points between the line y=-1/2x, and the boundary of the disk, therefore the circle with radius=1.

If you consider f(x,y) as a scalar field, then it is a family of lines with incline=-1/2. Then, you just need to find the constant c (f(x,y)=c), for which the function is tangent to the boundary of the circle.
 
  • #3
Kork said:
I am having trouble with getting started with this one:

Find the maximum and minimum values of f(x,y)=x+2y on the disk x^2+y^2 ≤ 1

I have started like this:
fx(x,y) = 1
fy(x,y) = 2

and then I am lost...How do I solve it?
Since those are never 0, there is no solution inside the circle. You need to look on the circle. There [itex]y= \pm\sqrt{1- x^2}[/itex] so f(x,y) becomes [itex]x+ 2\sqrt{1-x^2}[/itex] or [itex]x- 2\sqrt{1- x^2}[/itex]. Differentiate those and see where the derivative is 0. Don't forget to look specifically at the value of f at the points (-1, 0) and (1, 0), the endpoints of those intervals.
 

FAQ: Finding the maximum and minimum values

What is the definition of maximum and minimum values?

The maximum value is the largest value in a set of data, while the minimum value is the smallest value in a set of data. These values are used to determine the range or spread of the data.

How do you find the maximum and minimum values in a dataset?

To find the maximum value, you can arrange the data in ascending order and identify the last number in the set. To find the minimum value, you can arrange the data in descending order and identify the last number in the set.

Can a dataset have more than one maximum or minimum value?

Yes, a dataset can have more than one maximum or minimum value if there are multiple numbers that are tied for the largest or smallest value in the set.

What is the significance of finding the maximum and minimum values in a dataset?

Finding the maximum and minimum values can help in understanding the range of the data and identifying any outliers or extreme values. It can also be useful in making comparisons between different datasets.

Are there any limitations to using maximum and minimum values to analyze data?

While maximum and minimum values can provide valuable insight into a dataset, they do not take into account the distribution of the data. It is important to also consider measures of central tendency and variability when analyzing data.

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