Find where the curve 2x^2 + xy + y^2 = 14 has stationary points

d/dx (xy) = x dy/dx + y 

d/dx (y^2) = 2y dy/dx [This is from the chain rule]

So, d/dx (2x^2 + xy + y^2 = 14) 

=> 4x + x dy/dx + y + 2y dy/dx = 0

set dy/dx = 0 as stationary point has gradient 0

Obtains 4x+y=0

y=-4x

Sub this back into our original equation

14x^2 = 14

x^2 = 1

This is only satisfied by +1 and -1

When x=1 y=-4, when x=-1 y=4

So stationary points are (1,-4) and (-1,4)

MH
Answered by Matthew H. Maths tutor

8723 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

If y = (4x^2)ln(x) then find the second derivative of the function with respect to x when x = e^2 (taken from a C3 past paper)


What is the best way to prove trig identities?


Why is sin(t)^2 + cos(t)^2 = 1 true for all t?


Find the an expression for dy/dx of the function y=(4x+1)ln(3x+1) and the gradient at the point x=1.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning