Need help factoring in two variables

In summary, the equations for finding relative min/max are set up by finding the partial derivatives of the given function with respect to each variable. From there, you solve for each variable and then plug one of the solutions back into the original equation to solve for the other variable. In this case, after solving for x, you can plug that solution in for y and solve for y to find the critical points.
  • #1
Dannbr
9
0

Homework Statement



Trying to find relative min/max

Homework Equations



f(x,y)=X^4+y^4-36xy


The Attempt at a Solution



partial WRT(x) = 4x^3-36y
partial WRT(y) = 4y^3-36x

Set Partial WRT(x) = 0

4x^3-36y=0
4x^3=36y
x=(9y)^1/3

plug x into Partial

4[(9y)^1/3]^3-36y=0
36y-36y=0

Im not sure what to do now to find the critical points?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Let ∂f/∂x=0 and ∂f/∂y=0.

From your original post, you have

∂f/∂x = 4x3-36y = 4(x3-9y) = 0
∂f/∂y = 4y3-36x = 4(y3-9x) = 0

Now all you have left to do is to find all points that satisfy both equations. Two equations. Two unknowns. Algebra holds the answer. o_O
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Dannbr said:

Homework Statement



Trying to find relative min/max

Homework Equations



f(x,y)=X^4+y^4-36xy


The Attempt at a Solution



partial WRT(x) = 4x^3-36y
partial WRT(y) = 4y^3-36x

Set Partial WRT(x) = 0

4x^3-36y=0
4x^3=36y
x=(9y)^1/3

plug x into Partial

4[(9y)^1/3]^3-36y=0
36y-36y=0

Im not sure what to do now to find the critical points?

You just plugged your solution for WRT(x) back into the equation WRT(x). You aren't going to get anything out of that. Try solving the WRT(x) equation for y and putting that into the WRT(y) equation. You'll get an equation of high degree, but it's pretty easy to say what the possible real roots are.
 
  • #4
Thanks for help
 

FAQ: Need help factoring in two variables

How do I factor in two variables?

Factoring in two variables involves finding the common factors between two expressions that contain variables. This can be done by using the distributive property, grouping, or factoring by grouping.

What is the purpose of factoring in two variables?

Factoring in two variables allows us to simplify and solve equations that involve multiple variables. It also helps us to identify patterns and relationships between the variables.

Can you give an example of factoring in two variables?

One example of factoring in two variables is factoring the expression 2xy + 4x. The common factor between the two terms is 2x, so we can factor it out to get 2x(y+2).

What are some strategies for factoring in two variables?

Some strategies for factoring in two variables include looking for common factors between terms, using the distributive property, grouping similar terms, and factoring by grouping.

How can I check if my factoring in two variables is correct?

You can check if your factoring is correct by multiplying the factored terms to see if you get back the original expression. You can also plug in different values for the variables to see if the factored expression and the original expression give the same result.

Back
Top