Thread: tangent plane

Not sure if this is in the right section, as its part geometry, part calculus..



I must be frank and say I don't actually understand what the question is asking. I understand that actual derivation of the tangent plane equation, but am not sure if that is what the question is actually asking.

Just seeking clarification,
Thanks in advance!

Originally Posted by avfc88

Not sure if this is in the right section, as its part geometry, part calculus..



I must be frank and say I don't actually understand what the question is asking. I understand that actual derivation of the tangent plane equation, but am not sure if that is what the question is actually asking.

Just seeking clarification,
Thanks in advance!

Yes, that is exactly what it asked. It is, I think, a poorly worded question, in particular where it refers to point "P" without saying what P is! (I think P is supposed to be the point [tex](x_0, y_0, f(x_0, y_0)) but they should have said that!_

Originally Posted by HallsofIvy

Yes, that is exactly what it asked. It is, I think, a poorly worded question, in particular where it refers to point "P" without saying what P is! (I think P is supposed to be the point [tex](x_0, y_0, f(x_0, y_0)) but they should have said that!_

Ah thanks for the clarification!

Basically then, to show the derivation of the tangent plane equation, I am following what is shown in any general calculus book!