Is the Implicit Function Theorem Applicable to F=K?

In summary, the conversation discusses the idea of finding a unique solution for the equation F = xy*e^x + y*e^y = K, and determining the conditions under which this is possible. It is mentioned that Fy ≠ 0 if K ≥ 0, and that the implicit function theorem implies that F=K is locally solvable for y as a function of x. However, it is noted that this conclusion may not hold if F has more than 2 variables.
  • #1
deluks917
381
4
Can anyone check if this argument works. I just made up this problem to check if I understand what's going on.

Consider F = xy*e^x + y*e^y = K. I want to see if there is a unique solution.

Fy = x*e^x + y*e^y + e^y.

Since we are on the surface x*e^x + y*e^y = K.

So if K >= 0 then Fy ≠ 0. So given any x we can find a unique y.

Did I understand the theorem correctly?
 
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  • #2
deluks917 said:
Can anyone check if this argument works. I just made up this problem to check if I understand what's going on.

Consider F = xy*e^x + y*e^y = K. I want to see if there is a unique solution.

Fy = x*e^x + y*e^y + e^y.

Since we are on the surface x*e^x + y*e^y = K.

So if K >= 0 then Fy ≠ 0. So given any x we can find a unique y.

Did I understand the theorem correctly?

You're missing a few things here. Firstly, if [itex]F = xy e^x + y e^y = K[/itex], then [itex]F_y = x e^x + (y+1) e^y = 0[/itex]. That's an implicit function. And secondly, given any x, there's not necessarily a unique y. For example, take x=0.05. For this point x, there are two solutions to y satisfying the derivative F_y (namely y=-4.06616... and y=-1.16923...).

Is that what you mean?
 
  • #3
deluks, you are correct.

The implicit function theorem implies that F=K is LOCALLY solvable for y as a function of x. That is, for each point there exists a neighbourhood of that point where y can be written as a function of x. In this case, F is only 2 variables, so "Locally solvable everywhere" is equivalent to "globally solvable" and so your conclusion is correct, but this would not be valid if F had more than 2 variables.

To the other poster: He is referring to the Curve F=K having a unique x for each y, not anything about the derivative.
 

FAQ: Is the Implicit Function Theorem Applicable to F=K?

What is the Implicit Function Theorem?

The Implicit Function Theorem is a fundamental theorem in calculus and differential equations that allows us to find solutions to equations that cannot be solved explicitly. It provides a way to find the derivatives of implicit functions, which are functions that are not explicitly defined in terms of their independent variables.

2. How does the Implicit Function Theorem work?

The Implicit Function Theorem states that if a multivariable function satisfies certain conditions, then it is possible to express one of the variables in terms of the others. This is useful when we have equations that cannot be solved explicitly, as it allows us to find solutions in terms of other variables.

3. What are the conditions for the Implicit Function Theorem to hold?

The conditions for the Implicit Function Theorem to hold are that the function must be continuously differentiable and that the partial derivative of the function with respect to the dependent variable must not be equal to zero. Additionally, the function must also satisfy a non-degeneracy condition, which ensures that the solution can be uniquely determined.

4. What are the applications of the Implicit Function Theorem?

The Implicit Function Theorem has many applications in mathematics, physics, and engineering. It is commonly used in optimization problems, curve fitting, and solving equations in multiple variables. It is also used in the study of differential equations and dynamical systems.

5. Are there any limitations to the Implicit Function Theorem?

While the Implicit Function Theorem is a powerful tool in mathematics, there are some limitations to its applicability. For example, it only works for functions that are continuously differentiable, so it cannot be used for functions with discontinuities. Additionally, the non-degeneracy condition can be difficult to verify in some cases, which may limit its use in certain problems.

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