Dr.

Satish Shukla 1 of 31

Engg. Math. I

Unit-II

Partial differentiation

Syllabus: Eulers theorem, total differential, maxima and minima of functions of

two variables only.

Functions of Several Variables

Suppose, a particle is moving parallel to the earth surface, then at any instant its energy
depends only upon its velocity (surely, we neglect the effect of other celestial and terrestrial
bodies on the energy of particle). Precisely, the energy of particle
1
E(v) = mv 2 + K0
2
where v is the velocity of particle and K0 is its potential energy (which is constant).
Thus, the E(v) depends only on the velocity v. We say that the energy E of particle is
an output, while its velocity is the input for this output function, and for various values
of input we obtain the different outputs.
Now consider same particle but with a different situation. Suppose, the particle is
moving in such a way that its hight from the earth surface changes continuously. Then,
at any instant its energy depends upon its velocity v, as well as, its hight h from the earth
surface. Precisely, the energy of particle
1
E(v, h) = mv 2 + mgh.
2
What we see? We now see that the output function E depends on the two inputs, namely,
the velocity v and the hight h of the particle.
We say that the energy function E is a function of a single variable v, while the energy
function E is a function of two variables v, h.
In general, we say that a quantity y is a function f of n variables if its value depends
on n variables x1 , x2 , . . . , xn . Mathematically, we represent this fact by:

y = f (x1 , x2 , . . . , xn ).

Partial Derivatives. Suppose, y = f (x) is a function of single variable. If we draw a

graph of this function by taking the values of x on X-axis and of y on Y -axis, then we get
a two-dimensional curve. Clearly, the input x can change only along the X-axis (either
towards left or towards right), and so, we can find the rate of change of y only along
X-axis. This rate is called the derivative (total derivative) of y with respect to x and
dy
denoted by .
dx
Dr. Satish Shukla 2 of 31

Graph of a function of single variable Graph of a function of two variable

Y
Z

0.2
5
−5
X −5
−1 −0.5 0.5 1
5 X
5 −5
−0.2 Y

We call the inputs as independent variable and the output as dependent variable. Now
consider a different case, when the dependent variable z is a function of two independent
variables (x, y). We write z = f (x, y). Now if we draw the graph of this function by
taking the values of x, y and z on three mutually perpendicular axes, we obtain a three
dimensional surface. Then, apart from the previous case the independent variables (x, y)
(the inputs) now can change in the XY -plane in any direction (right or left, up or down;
or in any direction different from these two), and so, we can find the rate of change of
z along any such direction. Such rate of change is called the directional derivative of f .
In particular, we are interested in finding the rate of change (directional derivative) of f
in two directions (i) along X-axis; and (ii) along Y -axis, and so, we get two directional
derivatives along these two axes. The rate of change of f (or z) along X-axis is called
∂f
the partial derivative of f (or z) with respect to x and it is denoted by . Similarly,
∂x
the rate of change of f (or z) along Y -axis is called the partial derivative of f (or z) with
∂f
respect to y and it is denoted by .
∂y
∂f
Because, in moving along X-axis y remains constant, and is the rate of change of
∂x
f along X axis, we have:

∂f f (x + h, y) − f (x, y)
= lim .
∂x h→0 h
∂f
Similarly, in moving along Y -axis x remains constant, and is the rate of change of f
∂y
along Y axis, we have:
∂f f (x, y + k) − f (x, y)
= lim .
∂y k→0 k
In similar way, we can define the partial derivatives of higher orders.

To find the partial derivative of z = f (x, y) with respect to x we differentiate z by

usual rules of differentiation with respect to x, but treat the variable y as constant.
Similarly, when we find the partial derivative of z = f (x, y) with respect to y
we differentiate z by usual rules of differentiation with respect to y, but treat the
variable x as constant. If u = f (x, y, z) is a function of three variables, then find
the partial derivative of u = f (x, y, z) with respect to x we differentiate u by usual
rules of differentiation with respect to x, but treat all other variables y and z as
constant, and so on..
Dr. Satish Shukla 3 of 31

Example 1. Find the first and second partial derivatives of the function z = x3 +
y 3 − 3axy.

Solution: Given function is

z = x3 + y 3 − 3axy. (1)
Differentiating (1) partially with respect to x we get:
∂z
= 3x2 − 3ay. (2)
∂x
Differentiating (1) partially with respect to y we get:
∂z
= 3y 2 − 3ax. (3)
∂y
Differentiating (2) partially with respect to x and y we get:
∂ 2z ∂ 2z ∂ 2z
= 6x; = = −3a.
∂x2 ∂y∂x ∂x∂y
Differentiating (3) partially with respect to y we get:
∂ 2z
= 6y.
∂y 2 

Example 2. If z(x + y) = x2 + y 2 , then show that

 2  
∂z ∂z ∂z ∂z
− =4 1− − .
∂x ∂y ∂x ∂y

Solution: Given function is

x2 + y 2
z= . (4)
x+y
Differentiating (4) partially with respect to x we get:
∂z (x + y)2x − (x2 + y 2 ) x2 + 2xy − y 2
= = . (5)
∂x (x + y)2 (x + y)2
Differentiating (4) partially with respect to y we get:
∂z (x + y)2y − (x2 + y 2 ) y 2 + 2xy − x2
= = . (6)
∂x (x + y)2 (x + y)2
From (5) and (6) we obtain:
2  2 2
x + 2xy − y 2 y 2 + 2xy − x2

∂z ∂z
− = −
∂x ∂y (x + y)2 (x + y)2
 2 2
2x − 2y 2

=
(x + y)2
2
2(x − y)(x + y)

=
(x + y)2
4(x − y)2
=
(x + y)2
Dr. Satish Shukla 4 of 31

and
x2 + 2xy − y 2 y 2 + 2xy − x2
   
∂z ∂z
4 1− − = 4 1− −
∂x ∂y (x + y)2 (x + y)2
(x + y)2 − (x2 + 2xy − y 2 ) − (y 2 + 2xy − x2 )
 
= 4
(x + y)2
 2
(x + y 2 + 2xy) − (x2 + 2xy − y 2 ) − (y 2 + 2xy − x2 )

= 4
(x + y)2
 2
x + y 2 − 2xy

= 4
(x + y)2
4(x − y)2
= .
(x + y)2
 2  
∂z ∂z ∂z ∂z
Therefore: − =4 1− − . 
∂x ∂y ∂x ∂y

∂ 2u x2 − y 2
y  
2 −1 2 −1 x
Example 3. If u = x tan − y tan , then show that = 2
x y ∂x∂y x + y2
∂ 2u ∂ 2u
and = .
∂x∂y ∂y∂x

Solution: Differentiating given function partially with respect to y we get:

    
∂u 2 1 1 −1 x 2 1 x
= x × × − 2y tan +y × × − 2
∂y 1 + (y/x)2 x y 1 + (x/y)2 y
3 2
 
x −1 x xy
= 2 − 2y tan +
x + y2 y x2 + y 2
 
x
= x − 2y tan−1 .
y

Differentiating the above equation partially with respect to x we get:

∂ 2u
  
∂ −1 x
= x − 2y tan
∂x∂y ∂x y
1 1
= 1 − 2y × 2
×
1 + (x/y) y
2 2
x −y
= 2 .
x + y2
∂u y
Similarly, = 2x tan−1 − y. Differentiating with respect to y we get:
∂x x
∂ 2u 1 1 x2 − y 2
= 2x × × −1= 2 .
∂y∂x 1 + (y/x)2 x x + y2

Therefore:
∂ 2u ∂ 2u x2 − y 2
= = 2 .
∂x∂y ∂y∂x x + y2 

−1/2 ∂ 2v ∂ 2v ∂ 2v
Example 4. If v = (x2 + y 2 + z 2 ) , then prove that + + = 0.
∂x2 ∂y 2 ∂z 2
Dr. Satish Shukla 5 of 31

Solution: Differentiating given function partially with respect to x we get:

∂v 1
−3/2
= − x2 + y 2 + z 2 × 2x
∂x 2

−3/2
= −x x2 + y 2 + z 2 .

Again differentiating with respect to x we obtain:

∂ 2v
 
2 2 2 −3/2 3
−5/2
x2 + y 2 + z 2


2
= − x +y +z −x − × 2x
∂x 2

−5/2  2
= x2 + y 2 + z 2 3x − x2 + y 2 + z 2



−5/2
= x2 + y 2 + z 2 2x2 − y 2 − z 2 .

Using symmetry of v in x, y and z we obtain:

∂ 2v 2 2 2 −5/2

2 2 2


= x + y + z 2y − x − z
∂y 2
∂ 2v
−5/2
= x2 + y 2 + z 2 2z 2 − x2 − z 2 .


and 2
∂z
Adding the above three we get:

∂ 2v ∂ 2v ∂ 2v
−5/2
−5/2
x2 + y 2 + z 2 2x2 − y 2 − z 2 + x2 + y 2 + z 2 2y 2 − x2 − z 2



+ + =
∂x2 ∂y 2 ∂z 2

−5/2
+ x2 + y 2 + z 2 2z 2 − x2 − z 2



−5/2
= x2 + y 2 + z 2 2x2 − y 2 − z 2 + 2y 2 − x2 − z 2 + 2z 2 − x2 − z 2



−5/2
= x2 + y 2 + z 2 ·0
= 0. 

Example 5. If u = ln (x3 + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz), then show that

 2
∂ ∂ ∂ 9
+ + u=− .
∂x ∂y ∂z (x + y + z)2

Solution: Differentiating given function partially with respect to x we get:

∂u 3x2 − 3yz
= 3 .
∂x x + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz
Using symmetry of u in x, y and z we obtain:

∂u 3y 2 − 3xz
= 3
∂y x + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz
∂u 3z 2 − 3xy
and = 3 .
∂z x + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz
Dr. Satish Shukla 6 of 31

Adding the above three we get:

∂u ∂u ∂u 3x2 − 3yz 3y 2 − 3xz 3z 2 − 3xy
+ + = 3 + +
∂x ∂y ∂z x + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz x3 + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz x3 + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz
3x2 − 3yz + 3y 2 − 3xz + 3z 2 − 3xy
=
x3 + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz
3(x2 + y 2 + z 2 − yz − xz − xy)
=
x3 + y 3 + z 3 − 3xyz
3(x2 + y 2 + z 2 − yz − xz − xy)
=
(x + y + z)(x2 + y 2 + z 2 − yz − xz − xy)
3
= .
x+y+z
Thus:
∂u ∂u ∂u 3
+ + = .
∂x ∂y ∂z x+y+z
Therefore:
 2   
∂ ∂ ∂ ∂ ∂ ∂ ∂u ∂u ∂u
+ + u = + + + +
∂x ∂y ∂z ∂x ∂y ∂z ∂x ∂y ∂z
  
∂ ∂ ∂ 3
= + +
∂x ∂y ∂z x+y+z
     
∂ 3 ∂ 3 ∂ 3
= + +
∂x x + y + z ∂y x + y + z ∂z x + y + z
3 3 3
= − 2
− 2
−
(x + y + z) (x + y + z) (x + y + z)2
9
= − .
(x + y + z)2 

∂ 3u
Example 6. If u = exyz , then show that = (1 + 3xyz + x2 y 2 z 2 )exyz .
∂x∂y∂z

Solution: Differentiating given function partially with respect to x we get:

∂u
= exyz · xy.
∂z
Again differentiating with respect to y we get:
∂ 2u
= (exyz · xz) · xy + exyz · x
∂y∂z
= exyz x + x2 yz .

Again differentiating with respect to x we get:

∂ 3u
= exyz · yz · x + x2 yz + exyz · (1 + 2xyz) .


∂x∂y∂z
= (1 + 3xyz + x2 y 2 z 2 )exyz .


∂ 2z
Example 7. If xx y y z z = c, then show that = −(x ln ex)−1 at point x = y = z.
∂x∂y
Dr. Satish Shukla 7 of 31

Solution: Given that: xx y y z z = c. Taking logarithm we obtain:

x ln x + y ln y + z ln z = ln c.

Differentiating given function partially with respect to x (note that, z is a function of x

and y both, so, it will not be treated as constant) we get:

1 1 ∂z ∂z
x· + ln x + z · + ln z = 0
x z ∂x ∂x
∂z
=⇒ 1 + ln x + (1 + ln z) = 0
∂x
∂z 1 + ln x
=⇒ = − .
∂x 1 + ln z
By symmetry of the function z in the variables x and y we obtain:
∂z 1 + ln y
=− .
∂y 1 + ln z
Differentiating the above equation partially with respect to x we obtain:

∂ 2z
 
∂ 1 + ln y
= −
∂x∂y ∂x 1 + ln z
1 1 ∂z
= (1 + ln y) · 2
· ·
(1 + ln z) z ∂x
 
1 1 1 + ln x
= (1 + ln y) · · · −
(1 + ln z)2 z 1 + ln z
(1 + ln x)(1 + ln y)
= − .
z(1 + ln z)3

Putting x = y = z in the above equation we get:

∂ 2z (1 + ln x)(1 + ln x)
= −
∂x∂y z(1 + ln x)3
1
= −
z(1 + ln x)
1
= −
z(ln e + ln x)
= −(x ln ex)−1 .


Example 8. If v = rn , where r2 = x2 + y 2 + z 2 , then show that

vxx + vyy + vzz = n(n + 1)rn−2 .

Solution: Given that: r2 = x2 + y 2 + z 2 . Differentiating partially with respect to x we

get:
∂r
2r = 2x
∂x
∂r x
=⇒ = .
∂x r
Dr. Satish Shukla 8 of 31

By symmetry of the function r in the variables x and y we obtain:

∂r y ∂r z
= , = .
∂y r ∂z r
Now, given that v = rn . Differentiating partially with respect to x we obtain:
∂v ∂r x
= nrn−1 = nrn−1 ·
∂x ∂x r
= nxrn−2 .

Again differentiating with respect to x we get:

∂ 2v ∂ ∂r
2
= (nxrn−2 ) = nrn−2 + n(n − 2)xrn−3
∂x ∂x ∂x
n−2 n−3 x
= nr + n(n − 2)xr ·
r
n−4 2 2
 
= nr r + (n − 2)x

Again by symmetry we obtain:

∂ 2v n−4
 2 2

= nr r + (n − 2)y
∂y 2
and ∂ 2v n−4
 2 2

= nr r + (n − 2)z .
∂z 2
Adding the above three equalities we obtain:
∂ 2v ∂ 2v ∂ 2v
vxx + vyy + vzz = + +
∂x2 ∂y 2 ∂z 2
nrn−4 r2 + (n − 2)x2 + nrn−4 r2 + (n − 2)y 2
   
=
+nrn−4 r2 + (n − 2)z 2
 

nrn−4 3r2 + (n − 2) x2 + y 2 + z 2


=
nrn−4 3r2 + (n − 2)r2
 
=
= nrn−4 (n + 1) r2
= n(n + 1)rn−2 .


Example 9. If u = f (r) and x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ, then prove that

∂ 2u ∂ 2u 00 1 0
+ = f (r) + f (r).
∂x2 ∂y 2 r

Solution: Given that x = r cos θ and y = r sin θ. On squaring and adding these two we
obtain
r 2 = x2 + y 2 .
∂r
Differentiating the above equation with respect to x partially we obtain: 2r = 2x, i.e.
∂x
∂r x
= .
∂x r
Similarly we obtain:
∂r y
= .
∂y r
Dr. Satish Shukla 9 of 31

Given that u = f (r). Differentiating u with respect to x partially we get:

∂u ∂r
= f 0 (r)
∂x ∂x
∂u x 0
=⇒ = f (r).
∂x r
Again differentiating the above equation with respect to x partially and using the formula
d
(f1 f2 f3 ) = f10 f2 f3 + f1 f20 f3 + f1 f2 f30 we get:
dx
∂ 2u ∂ hx 0 i
= f (r)
∂x2 ∂x r
∂ 2u x 00 ∂r 1 0 x ∂r 0
=⇒ 2
= f (r) + f (r) − 2 f (r)
∂x r ∂x r r ∂x
∂ 2u x2 00 1 0 x2 0
=⇒ = f (r) + f (r) − f (r). (7)
∂x2 r2 r r3
Since the given functions are symmetric in x and y we obtain:
∂ 2u y 2 00 1 0 y2 0
= f (r) + f (r) − f (r). (8)
∂y 2 r2 r r3
Adding equations (7) and (8) we obtain
∂ 2u ∂ 2u 1 00 2 2

2 0 1 0 2 2


+ = f (r) x + y + f (r) − f (r) x + y
∂x2 ∂y 2 r2 r r3
1 2 1
= 2 f 00 (r) · r2 + f 0 (r) − 3 f 0 (r) · r2
r r r
2 1
= f 00 (r) + f 0 (r) − f 0 (r)
r r
1
= f 00 (r) + f 0 (r). 
r

∂r ∂x 1 ∂x ∂θ
Example 10. If x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ, then prove that = and =r .
∂x ∂r r ∂θ ∂x

Solution: Given that x = r cos θ (9)

y = r sin θ. (10)
Squaring and adding these two we obtain: r2 = x2 + y 2 . So, as we found in the previous
∂r x
example: = . Again dividing (10) by (9) we get
∂x r
y sin θ
= = tan θ
x cos θ  
y
=⇒ θ = tan−1 .
x
Differentiating the above equation partially with respect to θ we obtain:
∂θ 1  y
=
2 × − 2
∂x 1 + xy x
y r sin θ
= − 2 2
=− 2
x +y r
sin θ
= − .
r
Dr. Satish Shukla 10 of 31

On differentiating equation (9) partially with respect to r we get:

∂x x
= cos θ =
∂r r
∂x ∂r
=⇒ = .
∂r ∂x
Again differentiating equation (9) partially with respect to θ we get:
 
∂x ∂θ
= −r sin θ = −r −r
∂θ ∂x
1 ∂x ∂θ
=⇒ = r . 
r ∂θ ∂x
Chain Rule for Partial Differentiation. Suppose z = f (x, y) be a function of two variable,
where x = x(t), y = y(t) are functions of another variable t. Suppose there is a small
change δt in the variable t, due to which there are small changes δx and δy in the variables
x and y respectively. Because of these changes in x and y, suppose there is a small change
∂z
δz in the function z = f (x, y). Then, the rate of change of z in X direction will be ,
∂x
∂z
and so the change in z along the X direction will be δx. Similarly, the change in z in
∂x
∂z
Y direction will be δy. Since the changes are very small the total approximate change
∂y
in z will be:
∂z ∂z
δz ≈ δx + δy.
∂x ∂y
Therefore, the rate of change of z with respect to t:
δz ∂z δx ∂z δy
≈ + .
δt ∂x δt ∂y δt
For instantaneous rate of change, letting δ → 0, and so, δx, δy → 0 in the above inequality
we obtain:
dz ∂z dx ∂z dy
= + .
dt ∂x dt ∂y dt
In a general case, if z = f (x, y), x = x(r, s) and y = y(r, s), then we have:

∂z ∂z ∂x ∂z ∂y
= +
∂r ∂x ∂r ∂y ∂r
∂z ∂z ∂x ∂z ∂y
= + .
∂s ∂x ∂s ∂y ∂s
The above results can be generalized for a function of n variables.

Example 11. If u = f (x, y) and x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ, then prove that

 2  2  2  2
∂u ∂u ∂u 1 ∂u
+ = + 2 .
∂x ∂y ∂r r ∂θ

Solution: Since x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ we have:

∂x ∂x
= cos θ, = −r sin θ
∂r ∂θ
Dr. Satish Shukla 11 of 31

and ∂y ∂y
= sin θ, = r cos θ.
∂r ∂θ
Now by chain rule we have:
∂u ∂u ∂x ∂u ∂y
= +
∂r ∂x ∂r ∂y ∂r
∂u ∂u
= cos θ + sin θ
∂x ∂y
and
∂u ∂u ∂x ∂u ∂y
= +
∂θ ∂x ∂θ ∂y ∂θ
∂u ∂u
= −r sin θ + r cos θ .
∂x ∂y
Therefore:
 2  2  2  2
∂u 1 ∂u ∂u ∂u 1 ∂u ∂u
+ 2 = cos θ + sin θ + 2 −r sin θ + r cos θ
∂r r ∂θ ∂x ∂y r ∂x ∂y
 2  2

∂u
∂u
= cos2 θ + sin2 θ + sin2 θ + cos2 θ
∂x ∂y
 2  2
∂u ∂u
= + . 
∂x ∂y
du
Example 12. If u = x log(xy) where x3 + y 3 + 3xy = 1, find .
dx

Solution: Since
u = x log(xy) (11)
we have:  
∂u 1
=x .y + log(xy) = 1 + log(xy),
∂x xy
 
and ∂u 1 x
=x .x = .
∂y xy y
also,
x3 + y 3 + 3xy = 1 (12)
Differentiating (12), w.r.t. x, we get
 
2 2 dydy
3x + 3y +3 x +y = 0
dx dx

x2 + y
 
dy
= − (13)
dx x + y2
we know that
du ∂u ∂u dy
= +
dx ∂x ∂y dx
  2 
x x +y
= 1 + log(xy) + −
y x + y2
x(x2 + y)
= 1 + log(xy) − .
y(x + y 2 )
Dr. Satish Shukla 12 of 31

∂u ∂u ∂u
Example 13. If u = f (x − y, y − z, z − x), then prove that + + = 0.
∂x ∂y ∂z

Solution: Let

X = x−y (14)
Y = y−z (15)
Z = z − x. (16)

Then we have u = f (X, Y, Z), i.e., u is a function of X, Y, Z. Differentiating (14), (15)

and (16) with respect to x, y, z we get:
∂X ∂X ∂X
= 1, = −1, =0
∂x ∂y ∂z
∂Y ∂Y ∂Y
= 0, = 1, = −1
∂x ∂y ∂z
∂Z ∂Z ∂Z
= −1, = 0, = 1.
∂x ∂y ∂z
Now by chain rule of partial differentiation we get:
∂u ∂u ∂X ∂u ∂Y ∂u ∂Z
= + +
∂x ∂X ∂x ∂Y ∂x ∂Z ∂x
∂u ∂u ∂u
= ·1+ ·0+ (−1)
∂X ∂Y ∂Z
∂u ∂u
= − ,
∂X ∂Z
∂u ∂u ∂X ∂u ∂Y ∂u ∂Z
= + +
∂y ∂X ∂y ∂Y ∂y ∂Z ∂y
∂u ∂u ∂u
= (−1) + ·1+ ·0
∂X ∂Y ∂Z
∂u ∂u
= − +
∂X ∂Y
and ∂u ∂u ∂X ∂u ∂Y ∂u ∂Z
= + +
∂z ∂X ∂z ∂Y ∂z ∂Z ∂z
∂u ∂u ∂u
= ·0+ (−1) + ·1
∂X ∂Y ∂Z
∂u ∂u
= − + .
∂Y ∂Z
Adding the above three equalities we get
∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u
+ + = − − + − +
∂x ∂y ∂z ∂X ∂Z ∂X ∂Y ∂Y ∂Z
= 0. 

∂ 2u ∂ 2u
Example 14. Transform the Laplace equation + 2 = 0 into the polar coor-
∂x2 ∂y
dinates.
Dr. Satish Shukla 13 of 31

Solution: We know that the relation between cartesian coordinates (x, y) and the  polar
−1 y

2 2 2
coordinates (r, θ) are given by x = r cos θ, y = r sin θ, i.e., r = x +y and θ = tan .
x
Therefore:
∂r x ∂r y
= = cos θ, = = sin θ
∂x r ∂y r
and ∂θ sin θ ∂θ cos θ
=− , = .
∂x r ∂y r
Now by chain rule we have:
∂u ∂u ∂r ∂u ∂θ ∂u sin θ ∂u
= + = cos θ −
∂x ∂r ∂x ∂θ ∂x
  ∂r r ∂θ
∂ sin θ ∂
= cos θ − u.
∂r r ∂θ
The above relation is true for all functions u, and so:
∂ ∂ sin θ ∂
≡ cos θ − .
∂x ∂r r ∂θ
Similarly, we have
∂u ∂u ∂r ∂u ∂θ ∂u cos θ ∂u
= + = sin θ +
∂y ∂r ∂y ∂θ ∂y ∂r r ∂θ
 
∂ cos θ ∂
= sin θ + u.
∂r r ∂θ
The above relation is true for all functions u, and so:
∂ ∂ cos θ ∂
≡ sin θ + .
∂y ∂r r ∂θ
Therefore:
∂ 2u
 
∂ ∂u
=
∂x2 ∂x ∂x
  
∂ sin θ ∂ ∂u sin θ ∂u
= cos θ − cos θ −
∂r r ∂θ ∂r r ∂θ
   
∂ ∂u sin θ ∂u sin θ ∂ ∂u sin θ ∂u
= cos θ cos θ − − cos θ −
∂r ∂r r ∂θ r ∂θ ∂r r ∂θ
2 2
∂ 2u
   
2 ∂ u 1 ∂u 1 ∂ u sin θ ∂u
= cos θ 2 − sin θ cos θ − 2 + − − sin θ + cos θ
∂r r ∂θ r ∂r∂θ r ∂r ∂r∂θ
2
 
sin θ ∂u ∂ u
+ 2 cos θ + sin θ 2
r ∂θ ∂θ

Similarly,
∂ 2u
 
∂ ∂u
=
∂y 2 ∂y ∂y
  
∂ cos θ ∂ ∂u cos θ ∂u
= sin θ + sin θ +
∂r r ∂θ ∂r r ∂θ
2
1 ∂u 1 ∂ 2 u ∂ 2u
   
2 ∂ u cos θ ∂u
= sin θ 2 + sin θ cos θ − 2 + + cos θ + sin θ
∂r r ∂θ r ∂r∂θ r ∂r ∂r∂θ
2
 
cos θ ∂u ∂ u
+ 2 − sin θ + cos θ 2 .
r ∂θ ∂θ
Dr. Satish Shukla 14 of 31

Therefore the Laplace equation will be:

∂ 2u ∂ 2u
+ =0
∂x2 ∂y 2
2 2

∂ 2 u sin2 θ + cos2 θ ∂u sin2 θ + cos2 θ ∂ 2 u
=⇒ cos θ + sin θ + + =0
∂r2 r ∂r r2 ∂θ2
∂ 2 u 1 ∂u 1 ∂ 2u
=⇒ + + = 0. 
∂r2 r ∂r r2 ∂θ2

Exercise (Assignment)

(Q.1) If z = f (x, y), x = eu + e−v , y = e−u + ev , then prove that:

∂z ∂z ∂z ∂z
− =x −y .
∂u ∂v ∂x ∂y
Hint: Use the chain rule of partial differentiation.

Homogeneous Function

A function f in two variables x and y is called homogeneous of degree n in x and y if

for any variable t we have
f (tx, ty) = tn f (x, y).

Example 15. The function f (x, y) = ax2 + bxy + cz 2 is a homogeneous function of

degree 2 in x and y as

f (tx, ty) = a(tx)2 + b(tx)(ty) + c(tz)2

= t2 ax2 + bxy + cz 2
 

= x2 f (x, y).

In general, ann expression of the form:

a0 xn + a1 xn−1 y + a2 xn−2 y 2 + · · · + an y n

is a homogeneous function of degree n in x and y.

Dr. Satish Shukla 15 of 31

Remark 1. If u = f (x, y) is a homogeneous function of degree n in x and y, then

for any value t we have
f (tx, ty) = tn f (x, y).
1
Replacing t by we get:
x
 y 1  y
f 1, = n f (x, y) =⇒ f (x, y) = xn f 1, .
x x x
 y y  y
Since, in f 1, first argument is 1 (constant) and the second is , hence f 1,
x x x
y
can be assumed as a function of only, i.e.,
x
 y y y
f 1, =a function of = φ (say). Therefore, we conclude that if
x x x
u = f (x, y) is a homogeneous function of degree n in x and y, then it can be
written as:
y
n
u = f (x, y) = x φ .
x
In general, a function f (x, y, z, . . .) is said to be a homogeneous
function of degree
n in x, y, z, . . . , if it can be expressed in the form xn φ xy , xz , . . . .

Euler’s Theorem on homogeneous functions If u be a homogeneous function of

degree n in x and y, then:
∂u ∂u
x +y = nu.
∂x ∂y

Proof. Since u is a homogeneous function of degree n in x and y, therefore we can assume

that y
u = xn φ .
x
On differentiating with respect to x and y partially we obtain:

∂u y    1
n−1 n 0 y
= nx φ +x φ ·y − 2
∂x x x x
∂u  y   y 
=⇒ = nxn−1 φ − yxn−2 φ0 (17)
∂x x x
and
∂u y 1
= xn φ0 ·
∂y x x
∂u  y 
=⇒ = xn−1 φ0 . (18)
∂y x

Multiplying (17) by x and (18) by y and adding we get:

∂u ∂u y
x +y = nxn φ = nu.
∂x ∂y x
Dr. Satish Shukla 16 of 31

In general, if u be a homogeneous function of degree n in x, y, z, . . . , then,

∂u ∂u ∂u ∂u
x +y +z +t . . . = nu.
∂x ∂y ∂z ∂t

Relation between second order derivatives of homogeneous functions

Theorem 1. If u is a homogeneous function of degree n, then:
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂u
(i) x 2
+ y = (n − 1) ;
∂x ∂x∂y ∂x
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂u
(ii) x + y 2 = (n − 1) ;
∂x∂y ∂y ∂y
2
2∂
u ∂ 2u 2
2∂ u
(iii) x + 2xy +y = n(n − 1)u.
∂x2 ∂x∂y ∂y 2

Proof. Since, u is a homogeneous function of x and y of degree n, therefore by Euler’s

theorem, we have:
∂u ∂u
x +y = nu. (19)
∂x ∂y
Differentiating (19) partially with respect to x, we get:
∂ 2 u ∂u ∂ 2u ∂u
x 2
+ + y = n
∂x ∂x ∂x∂y ∂x
2 2
∂ u ∂ u ∂u
=⇒ x 2 + y = (n − 1) . (20)
∂x ∂x∂y ∂x
Again, differentiating (19) partially with respect to y, we get:
∂ 2u ∂u ∂ 2u ∂u
x + +y 2 = n
∂y∂x ∂y ∂y ∂y
2 2
∂ u ∂ u ∂u
=⇒ x + y 2 + = (n − 1) . (21)
∂x∂y ∂y ∂y
Multiplying (20) by x and (21) by y and adding, we get:
2
∂ 2u 2
 
2∂ u 2∂ u ∂u ∂u
x 2 + 2xy +y = (n − 1) x +y
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y 2 ∂x ∂y
2 2 2
∂ u ∂ u ∂ u
=⇒ x2 2 + 2xy + y 2 2 = (n − 1)nu
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y
2 2
∂ u ∂ u ∂ 2u
=⇒ x2 2 + 2xy + y 2 2 = n(n − 1)u. (22)
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y

Theorem 2. If u is a function of x and y (not necessarily homogeneous in x and y)

and F is a function such that F (u) = f (x, y) is homogeneous of degree n in x and
y, then
∂u ∂u F (u)
x +y =n 0 .
∂x ∂y F (u)
Dr. Satish Shukla 17 of 31

Proof. Given that F (u) = f (x, y) is a homogeneous function of degree n in x and y,

therefore by Euler’s theorems, we have

∂F (u) ∂F (u)
x +y = nF (u)
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂u
=⇒ xF 0 (u) + yF 0 (u) = nF (u)
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂u F (u)
=⇒ x +y = n 0 .
∂x ∂y F (u)

This proves the result.

 
−1 x y ∂u ∂u
Example 16. If u = sin + tan−1 , then prove that x +y = 0.
y x ∂x ∂y

Solution: Given that

 
x−1
y
u = sin + tan−1
y x
  
y −1 y
= sin−1 + tan−1
x x
y
= ψ .
x
y
Hence, u = x0 ψ is a homogeneous function of degree n = 0 in x and y. Hence, by
x
Euler’s theorem we have:
∂u ∂u
x +y = nu
∂x ∂y
= 0·u
= 0.

This proves the result. 

y y
Example 17. If u = xφ +ψ , then prove that
x x
∂ 2u ∂ 2u 2
2∂ u
x2 + 2xy + y = 0.
∂x2 ∂x∂y ∂y 2
y y y
Solution: Let v = xφ and w = ψ , then u = v + w. Now v = xφ is a
x x x
homogeneous function of x and y of degree 1, so from the relation (22) we have,

∂ 2v ∂ 2v 2
2∂ v
x2 + 2xy + y = 1(1 − 1)v = 0 (23)
∂ 2x ∂x∂y ∂y 2
y
again w = ψ is a homogeneous function of x and y of degree 0, so from the relation
x
(22) we have,
∂ 2w ∂ 2w 2
2∂ w
x2 + 2xy + y = 0(0 − 1)w = 0 (24)
∂ 2x ∂x∂y ∂y 2
Dr. Satish Shukla 18 of 31

adding (23) and (24), we get

∂ 2 (v + w) ∂ 2 (v + w) 2
2 ∂ (v + w)
x2 + 2xy + y = 0
∂ 2x ∂x∂y ∂y 2
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂ 2u
x2 2 + 2xy + y2 2 = 0
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y
which is the required result. 

x2 + y 2
 
−1
Example 18. If u = sin , then show that
x+y

∂u ∂u
x +y = tan u.
∂x ∂y

Solution: Given that:

x2 + y 2
 
−1
u = sin
x+y
x2 + y 2
=⇒ sin u = = f (x, y) (say).
x+y
Again,
(tx)2 + (ty)2 x2 + y 2
f (tx, ty) = =t·
tx + ty x+y
1
= t f (x, y).
Thus, f is a homogeneous function of degree 1. Hence, by Euler’s theorem we have:
∂f ∂f
x
+y = 1·f
∂x ∂y
∂(sin u) ∂(sin u)
=⇒ x +y = 1 · sin u
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂u
=⇒ x cos u + y cos u = sin u
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂u sin u
=⇒ x +y =
∂x ∂y cos u
∂u ∂u
=⇒ x +y = tan u
∂x ∂y
which is the required result. 

∂u ∂u x3 + y 3
Example 19. Show that x +y = 2u log u, where log u = .
∂x ∂y 3x + 4y

Solution: Given that

x3 + y 3
log u = = f (x, y) (say).
3x + 4y
Then:
(tx)3 + (ty)3 x3 + y 3
f (tx, ty) = = t2
3(tx) + 4(ty) 3x + 4y
2
= t f (x, y).
Dr. Satish Shukla 19 of 31

Hence, f is a homogeneous function of degree 2 in x and y. By Euler’s theorem, we get

∂f ∂f
x +y = 2f (25)
∂x ∂y
But
∂f 1 ∂u ∂f 1 ∂u
= and =
∂x u ∂x ∂y u ∂y
Hence (25) becomes
   
1 ∂u 1 ∂u
x +y = 2 log u
u ∂x u ∂y
∂u ∂u
=⇒ x +y = 2u log u.
∂x ∂y
This gives the required result. 

x3 + y 3
 
−1
Example 20. If u = tan , then show that:
x+y
∂u ∂u
(A) x +y = sin 2u.
∂x ∂y

∂ 2u ∂ 2u 2
2∂ u
(B) x2 + 2xy + y = 2 cos 3u sin u.
∂x2 ∂x∂y ∂y 2

Solution: Given that:

x3 + y 3
 
−1
u = tan
x+y
x + y3
3
=⇒ tan u = = f (x, y) (say).
x+y
Again,

(tx)3 + (ty)3 3
2 x +y
3
f (tx, ty) = =t ·
tx + ty x+y
2
= t f (x, y).

Thus, f is a homogeneous function of degree 2. Hence, by Euler’s theorem we have:

∂f ∂f
x
+y = 2·f
∂x ∂y
∂(tan u) ∂(tan u)
=⇒ x +y = 2 tan u
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂u
=⇒ x sec2 u + y sec2 u = 2 tan u
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂u 2 tan u
=⇒ x +y =
∂x ∂y sec2 u
∂u ∂u
=⇒ x +y = sin 2u.
∂x ∂y
Dr. Satish Shukla 20 of 31

which is the required result (A). Again, differentiating (A), i.e., the above equation par-
tially with respect to x, we get:
∂ 2 u ∂u ∂ 2u ∂u
x 2+ +y = 2 cos 2u
∂x ∂x ∂x∂y ∂x
2 2
∂ u ∂ u ∂u
=⇒ x 2 + y = (2 cos 2u − 1) . (26)
∂x ∂x∂y ∂x
Again, differentiating (A) partially with respect to y, we get:
∂ 2u ∂u ∂ 2u ∂u
x + + y 2 = 2 cos 2u
∂y∂x ∂y ∂y ∂y
2 2
∂ u ∂ u ∂u
=⇒ x + y 2 + = (2 cos 2u − 1) . (27)
∂x∂y ∂y ∂y
Multiplying (26) by x and (27) by y and adding, we get:
2
∂ 2u 2
 
2∂
u 2∂ u ∂u ∂u
x 2 + 2xy +y = (2 cos 2u − 1) x +y
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y 2 ∂x ∂y
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂ 2u
=⇒ x2 2 + 2xy + y2 2 = (2 cos 2u − 1) sin 2u
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂ 2u
=⇒ x2 2 + 2xy + y2 2 = 2 cos 2u sin 2u − sin 2u
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂ 2u
=⇒ x2 2 + 2xy + y2 2 = sin 4u − sin 2u = 2 cos 3u sin u.
∂ x ∂x∂y ∂y
This proves the required result (B). 

Exercise (Assignment)

x2 y 2
 
−1 ∂u ∂u
(Q.1) If u = sin , then show that: x +y = 3 tan u.
x+y ∂x ∂y
x2 y 2
Hint: f (x, y) = sin u = is a homogeneous function of degree 3 in x and y.
x+y
 
−1 x+y ∂u ∂u 1
(Q.2) If u = cos √ √ , then show that: x +y = − cot u.
x+ y ∂x ∂y 2
x+y 1
Hint: f (x, y) = cos u = √ √ is a homogeneous function of degree in x and
x+ y 2
y.
 
−1 x+y
(Q.3) If u = sin √ √ , then show that:
x+ y
∂u ∂u 1
• x +y = tan u.
∂x ∂y 2
∂ 2u ∂ 2u ∂ 2u sin u cos 2u
• x2 2 + 2xy + y2 2 = − .
∂x ∂x∂y ∂y 4 cos3 u
x+y 1
Hint: f (x, y) = sin u = √ √ is a homogeneous function of degree in x and
x+ y 2
y.
Dr. Satish Shukla 21 of 31

Maxima and Minima of function of two variables

Necessary condition for maxima or minima of a function of two variables: Suppose

z = f (x, y) is a function of two variables x and y. We say that there is a maxima of function
f at point (a, b) if f (a + h, b + k) − f (a, b) < 0 for all h, k (positive or negative). Similarly,
say that there is a minima of function f at point (a, b) if f (a + h, b + k) − f (a, b) > 0 for
all h, k (positive or negative). We discuss the necessary condition for maxima or minima
of f analytically and geometrically.
The Taylor’s series for the function f about the point (a, b) is given by:
   2
∂ ∂ 1 ∂ ∂
f (a + h, b + k) = f (a, b) + h +k f (a, b) + h +k f (a, b) + · · ·
∂x ∂y 2! ∂x ∂y
Neglecting the higher order terms we get:
1  2
h fxx (a, b) + 2hkfxy (a, b) + k 2 fyy (a, b)

f (a+h, b+k) = f (a, b)+hfx (a, b)+kfy (a, b)+
2!
or
1  2
h fxx (a, b) + 2hkfxy (a, b) + k 2 fyy (a, b) .

f (a + h, b + k) − f (a, b) = hfx (a, b) + kfy (a, b) + (28)
2!
If there is a maxima (or minima) at (a, b) the LHS of the above equation is negative (or
positive). Therefore the RHS must be negative (or positive) for all values of h and k.
Note that, the first two terms of the RHS changes their sign with change in the signs of
h and k (as h and k becomes positive and negative), and so, LHS will be negative (or
positive) for all h and k if the first two terms becomes zero, i.e.,

fx (a, b) = fy (a, b) = 0.

Geometrically, since at maxima or minima, the

tangent plane to the surface z = f (x, y) be-
comes parallel to the XY -plane, its normal at
point (a, b) must be in Z-direction. Since the
direction ratios of normal are fx (a, b), fy (a, b)
and fz (a, b), at maxima or minima we must
have fx (a, b) = fy (a, b) = 0.

Second Derivative Test. Therefore putting fx (a, b) = fy (a, b) = 0 in equation (28) we

obtain:
1  2
h fxx (a, b) + 2hkfxy (a, b) + k 2 fyy (a, b) .

f (a + h, b + k) − f (a, b) = (29)
2!
Let r = fxx (a, b), s = fxy (a, b), t = fyy (a, b), then:

h2 fxx (a, b) + 2hkfxy (a, b) + k 2 fyy (a, b) = h2 r + 2hks + k 2 t

s2
 
1 2 2
= (hr + ks) + k t − .
r r

On putting this value in (29) we get:

s2
  
1 1 2 2
f (a + h, b + k) − f (a, b) = (hr + ks) + k t − .
2! r r
Dr. Satish Shukla 22 of 31

For maxima the LHS, and so the RHS should be negative and it is possible if r < 0 and
s2
t− < 0, i.e., rt − s2 > 0.
r
For minima the LHS, and so the RHS should be positive and it is possible if r > 0
s2
and t − > 0, i.e., rt − s2 > 0.
r
For saddle point the LHS, and so the RHS should be positive as well as negative
(should change the sign) and it is possible in the following two ways: (i) if r > 0 and
s2 s2
t− < 0, i.e., rt − s2 < 0. (ii) if r < 0 and t − > 0, i.e., rt − s2 < 0. Thus, for saddle
r r
point we must have rt − s2 < 0.
Finally, if rt − s2 = 0, then the neglected terms in the series becomes effective and we
need the further investigation.

Working Rules for finding the Maxima and Minima. Let

 2
D(x, y) = fxx (x, y)fyy (x, y) − fxy (x, y) .

We follow the following steps:

(1) Find the first derivatives fx (x, y) and fy (x, y) and solve the equations:

fx (x, y) = 0
fy (x, y) = 0.

Solution(s) of the above system is (are) the critical point(s). Suppose, a critical
point is (a, b);

(2) if D(a, b) > 0 and fxx (a, b) > 0, then f (x, y) has a local minimum at (a, b);

(3) if D(a, b) > 0 and fxx (a, b) < 0, then f (x, y) has a local maximum at (a, b);

(4) if D(a, b) < 0, then f (x, y) has a saddle point at (a, b);

(5) if D(a, b) = 0, then we cannot draw any conclusions and further investigations
are required.

Example 21. Discuss the maxima and minima of f (x, y) = x3 + y 3 − 3axy.

Solution: Given function is f (x, y) = x3 +y 3 −3axy. Differentiating partially with respect

to x and y we get:

fx (x, y) = 3x2 − 3ay, fy (x, y) = 3y 2 − 3ax.

First we find the critical point. Then:

fx (x, y) = 0, fy (x, y) = 0 =⇒ 3x2 − 3ay = 0, 3y 2 − 3ax = 0.

Since f is symmetric in x and y, a solution of the above system is x = y. Putting x = y

in the above equation we get:

3x2 − 3ax = 0 =⇒ 3x(x − a) = 0

=⇒ x = 0, a.
Dr. Satish Shukla 23 of 31

Since x = y, we get two critical points (0, 0) and (a, a). Now, by differentiating fx (x, y)
and fy (x, y) again with respect to x and y we get:

fxx (x, y) = 6x, fxy (x, y) = −3a, fyy (x, y) = 6y.

Now we find D at each critical point. Then:

(i).  2
D(0, 0) = fxx (0, 0)fyy (0, 0) − fxy (0, 0)
 2
= 0 · 0 − − 3a
= −9a2
< 0.

Since D(0, 0) < 0, the critical point (0, 0) is a saddle point.

(ii).  2
D(a, a) = fxx (a, a)fyy (a, a) − fxy (a, a)
 2
= 6a · 6a − − 3a
= 36a2 − 9a2 = 27a2
> 0.

Since D(0, 0) > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point (a, a). We consider
two cases:
If a < 0, then fxx (a, a) = 6a < 0 and so there is a maxima of function f and its
maximum value is
fmax = f (a, a) = a3 + a3 − 3a · a · a = −a3 .
If a > 0, then fxx (a, a) = 6a > 0 and so there is a minima of function f and its minimum
value is
fmin = f (a, a) = a3 + a3 − 3a · a · a = −a3 . 

a3 a3
Example 22. Discuss the maxima and minima of u = xy + + .
x y

a3 a3
Solution: Given function is u = xy + + . Differentiating partially with respect to
x y
x and y we get:
a3 a3
ux (x, y) = y − , u y (x, y) = x − .
x2 y2
First we find the critical point. Then:
a3 a3
ux (x, y) = 0, uy (x, y) = 0 =⇒ y− = 0, x − = 0.
x2 y2
Since f is symmetric in x and y, a solution of the above system is x = y. Putting x = y
in the above equation we get:
a3
x− =0 =⇒ x 3 − a3 = 0
x2
=⇒ x = a.

Since x = y, we get the critical point (a, a). Now, by differentiating ux (x, y) and uy (x, y)
again with respect to x and y we get:
2a3 2a3
uxx (x, y) = , u xy (x, y) = 1, u yy (x, y) = .
x3 y3
Dr. Satish Shukla 24 of 31

Now we find D at each critical point. Then:

 2
D(a, a) = uxx (a, a)uyy (a, a) − uxy (a, a)
 2
= 2·2− 1
= 3
> 0.

Since D(a, a) > 0, there is a maxima or minima at critical point (a, a). Then ux,x (a, a) =
2 > 0, and so, there is a minima of function u and its minimum value is

umin = u(a, a) = a2 + a2 + a2 = 3a2 . 

Example 23. Discuss the maxima and minima of f (x, y) = xy(a − x − y).

Solution: Given function is f (x, y) = xy(a − x − y) = axy − x2 y − xy 2 . Differentiating

partially with respect to x and y we get:

fx (x, y) = ay − 2xy − y 2 , fy (x, y) = ax − x2 − 2xy.

First we find the critical point. Then:

fx (x, y) = 0, fy (x, y) = 0 =⇒ ay − 2xy − y 2 = 0, ax − x2 − 2xy = 0.

Since f is symmetric in x and y, a solution of the above system is x = y. Putting x = y

in the above equation we get:

ax − x2 − 2x · x = 0 =⇒ x(a − 3x) = 0
a
=⇒ x = 0, .
3
a a
Since x = y, we get two critical points , and (a, a). Now, by differentiating fx (x, y)
3 3
and fy (x, y) again with respect to x and y we get:

fxx (x, y) = −2y, fxy (x, y) = a − 2x − 2y, fyy (x, y) = −2x.

Now we find D at each critical point. Then:

(i).  2
D(0, 0) = fxx (0, 0)fyy (0, 0) − fxy (0, 0)
 2
= 0·0− a
= −a2
< 0.

Since D(0, 0) < 0, the critical point (0, 0) is a saddle point.

(ii). a a a a a a  a a 
2
D , = fxx , fyy , − fxy ,
3 3 33  3 3 3 3
2a 2a  a 2
= − · − − −
3 3 3
2 2
4a a
= −
9 9
> 0.
Dr. Satish Shukla 25 of 31

a a a a
Since D , > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , . We
3 3 3 3
consider two cases: 
a a 2a
If a > 0, then fxx , =− < 0 and so there is a maxima of function f and its
3 3 3
maximum value is  a a  a2  a a  a3
fmax = f , = a− − = .
3 3 9 3 3 27
a a 2a
If a < 0, then fxx , = − > 0 and so there is a minima of function f and its
3 3 3
minimum value is  a a  a2  a a  a3
fmin = f , = a− − = . 
3 3 9 3 3 27

Example 24. Discuss the maxima and minima of f (x, y) = x3 y 2 (1 − x − y).

Solution: Given function is f (x, y) = x3 y 2 (1−x−y) = x3 y 2 −x4 y 2 −x3 y 3 . Differentiating

partially with respect to x and y we get:
fx (x, y) = 3x2 y 2 − 4x3 y 2 − 3x2 y 3 , fy (x, y) = 2x3 y − 2x4 y − 3x3 y 2 .
First we find the critical point. Then: fx (x, y) = 0, fy (x, y) = 0 implies
3x2 y 2 − 4x3 y 2 − 3x2 y 3 = 0;
2x3 y − 2x4 y − 3x3 y 2 = 0
=⇒ x2 y 2 (3 − 4x − 3y) = 0;
x3 y(2 − 2x − 3y) = 0
=⇒ 4x + 3y = 3;
2x + 3y = 2.
1 1
On solving the above equations we get x = , y = . Therefore, the critical point is
  2 3
1 1
, . Now, by differentiating fx (x, y) and fy (x, y) again with respect to x and y we
2 3
get:
fxx (x, y) = 6xy 2 − 12x2 y 2 − 6xy 3 , fxy (x, y) = 6x2 y − 8x3 y − 9x2 y 2 ,
fyy (x, y) = 2x3 − 2x4 − 6x3 y.
 
1 1
Now at critical point , we have
2 3
        2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
D , = fxx , fyy , − fxy ,
2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3
    2
1 1 1 1 1
= − − − − = −
9 8 12 72 144
> 0.
   
1 1 1 1
Since D , > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , . Since
 2 3 2 3
1 1 1
fxx , = − < 0, there is a maxima of function f and its maximum value is
2 3 9
   3  2  
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
fmax = f , = 1− − = · = . 
2 3 2 3 2 3 72 6 432

Example 25. Discuss the maxima and minima of f (x, y) = sin x sin y sin(x + y).
Dr. Satish Shukla 26 of 31

Solution: Given function is f (x, y) = sin x sin y sin(x + y). Differentiating partially with
respect to x and y we get:

fx (x, y) = cos x sin y sin(x + y) + sin x sin y cos(x + y)

= sin y sin(2x + y).

By symmetry of f in x and y we have

fy (x, y) = sin x sin(x + 2y).

First we find the critical point. Then:

fx (x, y) = 0, fy (x, y) = 0 =⇒ sin y sin(2x + y) = 0, sin x sin(x + 2y) = 0.

Since f is symmetric in x and y, a solution of the above system is x = y. Putting x = y

in the above equation we get:

sin x sin 3x = 0 =⇒ sin x = 0 or sin 3x = 0

π 2π
=⇒ x = 0, π, , .
3 3
π π   
2π 2π
Since x = y, we get four critical points (0, 0), (π, π), , and , . Now, by
3 3 3 3
differentiating fx (x, y) and fy (x, y) again with respect to x and y we get:

fxx (x, y) = 2 sin y cos(2x + y), fxy (x, y) = sin(2x + 2y), fyy (x, y) = 2 sin x cos(x + 2y).

Now we find D at each critical point. Then:

(i).  2
D(0, 0) = fxx (0, 0)fyy (0, 0) − fxy (0, 0)
= 0 · 0 − 0]2


= 0.

Since D(0, 0) = 0, we cannot draw any conclusions and further investigations are required.
(ii).  2
D(π, π) = fxx (π, π)fyy (π, π) − fxy (π, π)
= 0 · 0 − 0]2


= 0.

Since D(0, 0) = 0, we cannot draw any conclusions and further investigations are required.
(iii). π π  π π   π π  h  π π i2
D , = fxx , fyy , − fxy ,
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
√ √ " √ #2
3 3 3
= 2· (−1) · 2 · (−1) − −
2 2 2
9
= .
4
π π  π π 
Since D , > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , . Now
3 3 √ 3 3
π π  3 √
fxx , = 2· (−1) = − 3 < 0, and so, there is a maxima of function f and its
3 3 2
maximum value is
π π  π  π   π π  3√3
fmax = f , = sin · sin · sin + = .
3 3 3 3 3 3 8
Dr. Satish Shukla 27 of 31

(iv).         2
2π 2π 2π 2π 2π 2π 2π 2π
D , = fxx ,
fyy , − fxy ,
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
√ √ " √ #2
3 3 3
= 2· ·1·2· ·1−
2 2 2
9
= .
4
   
2π 2π 2π 2π
Since D , > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , .
3 3 √ 3 3
√
 
2π 2π 3
Now fxx , = 2· · 1 = 3 > 0, and so, there is a maxima of function f and
3 3 2
its minimum value is
        √
2π 2π 2π 2π 2π 2π 3 3
fmin = f , = sin · sin · sin + =− .
3 3 3 3 3 3 8 

Example 26. Discuss the maxima and minima of f (x, y) = sin x + sin y + sin(x + y).

Solution: Given function is f (x, y) = sin x + sin y + sin(x + y). Differentiating partially
with respect to x and y we get:

fx (x, y) = cos x + cos(x + y).

By symmetry of f in x and y we have

fy (x, y) = cos y + cos(x + y).

First we find the critical point. Then:

fx (x, y) = 0, fy (x, y) = 0 =⇒ cos x + cos(x + y) = 0, cos y + cos(x + y) = 0.

Since f is symmetric in x and y, a solution of the above system is x = y. Putting x = y

in the above equation we get:

cos x + cos(2x) = 0 cos x + 2 cos2 x − 1 = 0

=⇒
2 cos2 x + cos x√− 1 = 0
=⇒
−1 ± 1 + 8 1
=⇒ cos x = = −1,
4 2
π
=⇒ x = π, .
3
π π   
5π 5π
Since x = y, we two three critical points (π, π), , and , . Now, by differ-
3 3 3 3
entiating fx (x, y) and fy (x, y) again with respect to x and y we get:

fxx (x, y) = − sin x − sin(x + y), fxy (x, y) = − sin(x + y), fyy (x, y) = − sin y − sin(x + y).

Now we find D at each critical point. Then:

(i).  2
D(π, π) = fxx (π, π)fyy (π, π) − fxy (π, π)
= 0 · 0 − 0]2


= 0.
Dr. Satish Shukla 28 of 31

Since D(0, 0) = 0, we cannot draw any conclusions and further investigations are required.
(ii). π π  π π  π π   π π  
2
D , = fxx , fyy , − fxy ,
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
" √ #2
√ √ 3
= (− 3) · (− 3) − −
2
9
= > 0.
4
π π  π π 
Since D , > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , . Now
 π π 3 3 √ 3 3
fxx , = − 3 < 0, and so, there is a maxima of function f and its maximum value
3 3
is
π π  π  π   π π  3√3
fmax = f , = sin + sin + sin + = .
3 3 3 3 3 3 2
(iii). 
5π 5π
 
5π 5π
 
5π 5π


 
5π 5π 2
D , = fxx , fyy , − fxy ,
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
" √ #2
√ √ 3
= ( 3) · ( 3) −
2
9
= > 0.
4
   
5π 5π 5π 5π
Since D , > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , .
3 3  3 3
5π 5π √
Now fxx , = 3 > 0, and so, there is a minima of function f and its minimum
3 3
value is
        √
5π 5π 5π 5π 5π 5π 3 3
fmin = f , = sin + sin + sin + =− .
3 3 3 3 3 3 2 

Example 27. Discuss the maxima or minima of sin x sin y sin z, where x, y and z are
the angles of triangle.

Solution: Since x, y and z are the angles of triangle, we have x + y + z = π or z =

π − (x + y). Now the given function is f (x, y) = sin x sin y sin z. On putting the value of
z we have
f (x, y) = sin x sin y sin [π − (x + y)] = sin x sin y sin(x + y).
Now follow the process of Example 25. 

Example 28. Find the point on the surface z 2 = xy + 1 nearest to the origin.

Solution: Suppose the required point on the surface z 2 = xy + 1 is (x, y, z). Then we
have to find this point such that its distance from origin, i.e.
p
d = x2 + y 2 + z 2

is minimum. Since d and d2 get their minimum values together, for simplicity, we calculate
the point of minima of
d 2 = x2 + y 2 + z 2 .
Dr. Satish Shukla 29 of 31

Since the point (x, y, z) is situated on the surface therefore z 2 = xy + 1. On putting

this value in the above equation we get: d2 = f (x, y) = x2 + y 2 + xy + 1. Differentiating
partially with respect to x and y we get:

fx (x, y) = 2x + y.

By symmetry of f in x and y we have

fy (x, y) = 2y + x.

First we find the critical point. Then:

fx (x, y) = 0, fy (x, y) = 0 =⇒ 2x + y = 0, 2y + x = 0.

Since f is symmetric in x and y, a solution of the above system is x = y. Putting x = y

in the above equation we get:

3x = 0 =⇒ x = 0.

Since x = y, the critical point is (0, 0). Now, by differentiating fx (x, y) and fy (x, y) again
with respect to x and y we get:

fxx (x, y) = 2, fxy (x, y) = 1, fyy (x, y) = 2.

Now we find D at critical point (0, 0). Then:

 2
D(0, 0) = fxx (0, 0)fyy (0, 0) − fxy (0, 0)
= 2 · 2 − 1]2


= 3.

Since D(0, 0) = 3 > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point (0, 0). Now
fxx (0, 0) = 2 > 0, and so, there is a minima of function f at point x = y = 0, and from
the equation of surface z 2 = xy + 1, at this point we have x = y = 0 and so z 2 = 0 · 01,
i.e., z = ±1. Thus, the distance of point (0, 0, ±1) of the surface will be minimum from
the origin. 

Example 29. If the perimeter of a triangle is constant, prove that the area of this
triangle is maximum when the triangle is equilateral.
p
Solution: We know that the area of triangle is given by ∆ = s(s − a)(s − b)(s − c),
where a, b, c are the sides of triangle and 2s = a + b + c. We have to maximize the area
∆. Since ∆ and ∆2 get their maximum values together, for simplicity, we calculate the
point of minima of
∆2 = s(s − a)(s − b)(s − c).
Since the perimeter is constant we have c = 2s − a − b. On putting this value in the above
equation we get: ∆2 = f (a, b) = s(s − a)(s − b)(a + b − s). Differentiating partially with
respect to a and b we get:

fa (a, b) = s(s − b)[−(a + b − s) + (s − a)]

= s(s − b)(2s − 2a − b). (30)
Dr. Satish Shukla 30 of 31

By symmetry of f in x and y we have

fb (a, b) = s(s − a)(2s − 2b − a).

First we find the critical point. Then:

fa (a, b) = 0, fb (a, b) = 0 =⇒ s(s − b)(2s − 2a − b) = 0, s(s − a)(2s − 2b − a) = 0.

Since f is symmetric in a and b, a solution of the above system is a = b. Putting a = b

in the above equation we get:
2s
s(s − a)(2s − 2a − a) = 0 =⇒ s(s − a)(2s − 3a) = 0 =⇒ s = 0, s = a, a = .
3
2s
Since s = 0, s = a are not possible, we have a = b = , and so, the critical point is
  3
2s 2s
, . Now, by differentiating fa (a, b) and fb (a, b) again with respect to a and b we
3 3
get:

faa (a, b) = −2s(s − b), fab (a, b) = s(2a + 2b − 3s), fbb (a, b) = −2s(s − a).

Now we find D at each critical point. Then:

        2
2s 2s 2s 2s 2s 2s 2s 2s
D , = faa , fbb , − fab ,
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
  2 2
2s2 2s2
 
s
= − − − −
3 3 3
4
s
= .
3
s4
   
2s 2s 2s 2s
Since D , = > 0, there is a maxima or minima at the critical point , .
3 3 3 3 3
2s2
 
2s 2s
Now faa , =− < 0, and so, there is a maxima of function f at point x =
3 3 3  
2s 2s 2s
y = , i.e., the area is maximum. Also, since 2s = a + b + c, at point , we have
3 3 3
2s 2s
c = 2s − a − b = . Therefore, for maximum area we have a = b = c = , i.e., the
3 3
triangle is equilateral. 

Exercise (Assignment)

(Q.1) Discuss the maxima or minima of the function f (x, y) = x3 − 3xy 2 − 15x2 − 15y 2 +
72x.
Ans. Critical point (6, 0) (minima), with fmin = f (6, 0) = 108, (4, 0) (maxima),
with fmax = f (4, 0) = 112, (5, 1) and (5, −1) are saddle points.

(Q.2) Discuss the maxima or minima of the function f (x, y) = x3 − 4xy + 2y 2 .

Ans. Critical point (0, 0) (saddle point) and (4/3, 4/3) (minima), with fmin =
32
f (4/3, 4/3) = − 27 .
Dr. Satish Shukla 31 of 31

(Q.3) Discuss the maxima or minima of the function f (x, y) = cos x cos y cos z, where x, y
and z are the angles of a triangle.
Hint. Since x+y+z = π the given function is reduced to f (x, y) = − cos x cos y cos(x+
y).

(Q.4) Discuss the maxima or minima of the function f (x, y) = cos x + cos y + cos z, where
x, y and z are the angles of a triangle.
Hint. Since x + y + z = π the given function is reduced to f (x, y) = cos x + cos y −
cos(x + y).

(Q.5) Discuss the maxima and minima of f (x, y) = x3 + y 3 − 3xy.

Ans. Critical point (0, 0) (saddle point) and (1, 1) (minima), fmin = f (a, a) = −1.