Learn Implicit Differentiation: Solving for r^2 in $y^2 + x^2 = 0

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of obtaining the result from the first line, $r^2 = y^2 + x^2$, by differentiating in differential form. This involves finding the derivatives of $r$, $x$, and $y$, represented by $dr$, $dx$, and $dy$ respectively, and using the given equation $\tan(\theta) = \frac{y}{x}$ to solve for $d\theta$. The final equation is $r^2\,d\theta = x\,dy-y\,dx$. The term "differential form" refers to the representation of derivatives as fractions, which allows for easier manipulation and solving.
  • #1
nacho-man
171
0
Can someone please explain how the result is obtained from the first line
$r^2 = y^2 + x^2$
(refer to attached image)

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  • #2
Given:

\(\displaystyle r^2=x^2+y^2\)

And then differentiating in differential form, we find:

\(\displaystyle 2r\,dr=2x\,dx+2y\,dy\)

Divide through by 2:

\(\displaystyle r\,dr=x\,dx+y\,dy\)

And given:

\(\displaystyle \tan(\theta)=\frac{y}{x}\)

And then differentiating in differential form, we find:

\(\displaystyle \sec^2(\theta)\,d\theta=\frac{x\,dy-y\,dx}{x^2}\)

Multiply through by \(\displaystyle x^2=r^2\cos^2(\theta)\):

\(\displaystyle r^2\,d\theta=x\,dy-y\,dx\)
 
  • #3
MarkFL said:
Given:

\(\displaystyle r^2=x^2+y^2\)

And then differentiating in differential form, we find:

\(\displaystyle 2r\,dr=2x\,dx+2y\,dy\)
Can I confirm what you've done to get the $dr, dx, dy$ out like that?

What is meant by differential form?
 

Related to Learn Implicit Differentiation: Solving for r^2 in $y^2 + x^2 = 0

1. What is implicit differentiation?

Implicit differentiation is a mathematical technique used to find the derivative of a function that is not explicitly defined. It is typically used when a function is defined implicitly by an equation, rather than being explicitly stated as a function of a single variable.

2. When should implicit differentiation be used?

Implicit differentiation should be used when a function cannot be easily expressed as a single variable or when solving for a derivative of a function with multiple variables. It is also useful when dealing with equations that involve both dependent and independent variables.

3. How is implicit differentiation different from explicit differentiation?

Explicit differentiation involves finding the derivative of a function that is explicitly defined in terms of a single variable. Implicit differentiation, on the other hand, is used to find the derivative of a function that is not explicitly defined and involves multiple variables.

4. What are the steps involved in implicit differentiation?

The first step in implicit differentiation is to differentiate both sides of the equation with respect to the independent variable. Then, use the chain rule and product rule to simplify the equation. Finally, solve for the derivative of the dependent variable by isolating it on one side of the equation.

5. Can implicit differentiation be used for any type of function?

Yes, implicit differentiation can be used for any type of function, as long as it is defined implicitly by an equation. It is a versatile technique that can be used to find the derivatives of polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions, among others.

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