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Explicit and Implicit Functions

The document discusses differentiating explicit and implicit functions. An explicit function expresses the dependent variable y in terms of the independent variable x. An implicit function relates both variables, like an equation defining a circle. It is often easier to differentiate implicit functions without rearranging, by differentiating each term. Examples demonstrate differentiating implicit functions and finding the gradient of a tangent line at a given point on an implicit curve.

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Sachin Yadav
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109 views

Explicit and Implicit Functions

The document discusses differentiating explicit and implicit functions. An explicit function expresses the dependent variable y in terms of the independent variable x. An implicit function relates both variables, like an equation defining a circle. It is often easier to differentiate implicit functions without rearranging, by differentiating each term. Examples demonstrate differentiating implicit functions and finding the gradient of a tangent line at a given point on an implicit curve.

Uploaded by

Sachin Yadav
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Differentiating Explicit and Implicit Functions

An explicit function is one which is given in terms of


the independent variable.

Take the following function,

y = x2 + 3x - 8

y is the dependent variable and is given in terms of the


independent variable x.
Note that y is the subject of the formula.

Implicit functions, on the other hand, are usually given in terms


of both dependent and independent variables.

eg:- y + x2 - 3x + 8 = 0

Sometimes, it is not convenient to express a function explicitly.


For example, the circle x2 + y2 = 16 could be written as

or

Which version should be taken if the function is to be


differentiated ?

It is often easier to differentiate an implicit function without


having to rearrange it, by differentiating each term in turn.
Since y is a function of x, the chain, product
and quotient rules apply !

Example

Differentiate x2 + y2 = 16 with respect to x.


Compared to

Example

Differentiate 2x2 + 2xy + 2y2 = 16 with respect to x.


Example

Find the gradient of the tangent at the point R(1,2)


on the graph of the curve defined by x3+ y2= 5, and determine
whether the curve is concave up or concave down at this point.
Divide through by y

Now substitute to find the particular solution

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