Exercise · ZW-GRADIENT-007 · ★★☆ Intermediate

The level curve of \(f(x,y)=x^2+y^2\) through \((1,1)\) has a tangent vector there. Which one?

Choose one option.

Show answer
  • C. \(\langle 1,-1\rangle\)

Explanation

The gradient \(\langle2,2\rangle\) is perpendicular to the level curve, and \(\langle1,-1\rangle\) is the one with \(\langle2,2\rangle\cdot\langle1,-1\rangle=0\).

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Review the concept: Gradient

The gradient \(\nabla f\) of a differentiable function \(f\) is the vector that collects its partial derivatives at a point; it points where \(f\) increases fastest.

\[\nabla f=\langle f_x,\,f_y\rangle=f_x\,\mathbf{i}+f_y\,\mathbf{j}\]

More practice problems: gradient

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