Tangent at self-intersection point

In summary, the problem is to find the slopes of the two tangent lines at the point (0,0) for the equation x^3-y^2+x^2=0. To solve this, implicit differentiation is used to find the derivative, which is undefined at the point (0,0). This makes it challenging to find the slopes without separating the curve into branches. However, there may be a solution for equations where writing an explicit formula for the function is not possible.
  • #1
TPAINE
21
0

Homework Statement



Find the slopes of the two tangent lines of x^3-y^2+x^2=0 at 0,0.

Homework Equations


Differentiating implicitly we get (dy(x))/(dx) = (x (2+3 x))/(2 y).


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure how to deal with the derivative being undefined at 0,0 when there are clearly two tangent lines.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Try solving the equation for y and differentiate each branch explicitly.
 
  • #3
I'm aware it can be done that way. However, is there a way to do it without separating the curve into branches, for equations where that is not so easy (or impossible)?
 
  • #4
Good question. In the situation where you can't write an explicit formula for the function I don't think there is any guarantee you can do it. I could be wrong, but I don't think so.
 

FAQ: Tangent at self-intersection point

What is a tangent at a self-intersection point?

A tangent at a self-intersection point is a line that touches a curve or surface at a specific point where the curve or surface intersects with itself. It is perpendicular to the curve or surface at that point, and represents the rate of change of the curve or surface at that specific point.

Why is the tangent at a self-intersection point important?

The tangent at a self-intersection point is important because it helps us understand the behavior of a curve or surface at that specific point. It allows us to determine the slope or rate of change of the curve or surface at that point, which can be useful in various applications such as physics, engineering, and economics.

How do you find the tangent at a self-intersection point?

To find the tangent at a self-intersection point, you need to first identify the point of intersection on the curve or surface. Then, using the derivative of the curve or surface, calculate the slope at that point. Finally, use the slope and the point of intersection to find the equation of the tangent line.

Can there be more than one tangent at a self-intersection point?

Yes, it is possible to have more than one tangent at a self-intersection point. This occurs when the curve or surface intersects with itself at more than one point, and each point has a different slope. In this case, there will be multiple tangent lines that can be drawn at the self-intersection point.

How is the tangent at a self-intersection point different from a regular tangent?

The tangent at a self-intersection point is different from a regular tangent because it represents the rate of change of the curve or surface at a specific point where the curve or surface intersects with itself. A regular tangent, on the other hand, represents the rate of change of the curve or surface at a single point where it does not intersect with itself.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
606
Replies
2
Views
342
Replies
10
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
4K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Back
Top