What does find the dx/dy of (eq inside) for x>0 mean?

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In summary, the conversation discusses finding the derivative of the function xy^2+xlnx=4y for x>0. The attempted solution involves finding dy/dx to be "(y^2+lnx+1)/(4-x)=dx/dy". However, the issue of the function being undefined for values less than zero is raised, and the equation is corrected to xy^2+xlnx=4y. The response suggests a different answer and points out a mistake in the derivative of the first term on the left.
  • #1
randy17
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Homework Statement



find dy/dx for the function xy^2+xlnx=4y for x>o

Homework Equations



xy^2+xlnx=4y

The Attempt at a Solution



I found the dy/dx to be "(y^2+lnx+1)/(4-x)=dx/dy"
What is it asking me to do with the x>0? Do they want me to plug in a value greater than 0 for x and solve for y? or what?
 
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  • #2
The function ln, as you might know, isn't defined for values less than zero. Hence it is meaningless to speak of a function value, let alone a derivative there.

By the way, for this to make sense to me, you have to have an equal sign somewhere. Like xy^2+xlnx = 0 or something - else it's just a value, not anything to define a function y(x).
 
  • #3
jeppetrost said:
By the way, for this to make sense to me, you have to have an equal sign somewhere. Like xy^2+xlnx = 0 or something - else it's just a value, not anything to define a function y(x).

Sorry, the eq is actually xy^2+xlnx=4y. Thank you for pointing out the mistake, I'll edit it out.
 
  • #4
I get a slightly different answer. Check your derivative of the first term on the left.
 

FAQ: What does find the dx/dy of (eq inside) for x>0 mean?

1. What is dx/dy?

The notation dx/dy represents the derivative of a function with respect to y. It is also known as the partial derivative of x with respect to y. In other words, it measures how much a function changes with respect to y when x is held constant.

2. What does it mean to find dx/dy for x>0?

This means that we are finding the derivative of a function with respect to y at a specific value of x, which is greater than 0. This value of x is known as the point of evaluation, and it helps us to calculate the slope of the function at that particular point.

3. How is dx/dy calculated?

The derivative dx/dy is calculated using the rules of differentiation, such as the power rule, product rule, and chain rule. These rules help us find the derivative of a function by breaking it down into simpler parts and applying specific formulas.

4. Why is finding dx/dy important?

The derivative dx/dy is essential in understanding the behavior of a function. It helps us determine the rate of change of a function and its slope at a particular point, which is crucial in many scientific and mathematical applications, such as optimization, physics, and engineering.

5. Can dx/dy be negative?

Yes, the derivative dx/dy can be negative. A negative value indicates that the function is decreasing at that point, while a positive value indicates that the function is increasing. However, the magnitude of the derivative is more important than its sign, as it tells us the rate of change or slope of the function.

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