Chapter 9: Problem 12
What kind of surfaces are the level surfaces \(f(x, y, z)=\) const? $$f=4 y^{2}-z$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
Level surfaces are parabolic cylinders parallel to the x-axis.
Step by step solution
01
Understanding the Given Function
The function is given as \( f(x, y, z) = 4y^2 - z \). This function is defined in three-dimensional space, involving variables \( x \), \( y \), and \( z \). However, notice that \( f \) does not explicitly contain the variable \( x \), indicating that the level surfaces are parallel to the \( x \)-axis.
02
Setting Up the Level Surface Equation
A level surface for a function of three variables is defined by setting \( f(x, y, z) = c \), where \( c \) is a constant. In this case, the level surface equation becomes \( 4y^2 - z = c \).
03
Rearranging the Equation
To understand the type of surface, rearrange the equation to solve for \( z \): \[ z = 4y^2 - c \]. This rearranged equation reveals the shape of the level surface.
04
Analyzing the Surface Equation
The equation \( z = 4y^2 - c \) represents a paraboloid. Specifically, it is a parabolic cylinder opening along the \( z \)-axis since the equation contains only \( y \) and \( z \). The surface is translated along the \( z \)-axis by the constant \( c \).
05
Conclusion on Level Surfaces
Since the given function does not depend on \( x \), every level surface is a parabolic cylinder parallel to the \( x \)-axis. Each value of \( c \) alters the translation along the \( z \)-axis, but they maintain the same parabolic shape.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Parabolic Cylinder
A parabolic cylinder is a type of three-dimensional surface that can be visualized by considering the equation of a parabola that exists in a two-dimensional plane. When this parabola extends infinitely along a third dimension, it forms a cylindrical structure, hence the name "parabolic cylinder". In our case, the equation is given as \( z = 4y^2 - c \). Let's break down this equation:
- The term \( 4y^2 \) represents a parabola opening along the \( z \)-axis. This parabola is only affected by changes in the \( y \) and \( z \) coordinates.
- The \( x \) variable is absent, indicating the cylinder extends parallel to the \( x \)-axis.
- Altering the constant \( c \) translates the parabola up or down the \( z \)-axis, but keeps the same parabolic shape.
Three-Dimensional Space
Three-dimensional space is the framework used to describe locations or dimensions involving three parameters: commonly known as \( x \), \( y \), and \( z \). Understanding three-dimensional space is fundamental in this exercise because it defines where the level surfaces of a function like \( f(x, y, z) = 4y^2 - z \) reside.
- Each point in this space can be defined by three coordinates: \( x \), \( y \), and \( z \).
- Level surfaces in three-dimensional space are objects where function values remain constant, which is essential for comprehending how these surfaces manifest.
- In this scenario, even though the function involves three variables, it varies with only \( y \) and \( z \), indicating independence from \( x \).
Level Surface Equation
A level surface equation establishes a relationship that allows for identifying surfaces within three-dimensional space where the function values remain constant. Specifically, it involves setting the function equal to a specific constant value, \( f(x, y, z) = c \). For our example, this means setting \( 4y^2 - z = c \).
- By solving this equation, we determine the specific shapes and orientations of level surfaces.
- In the problem's context, the equation \( z = 4y^2 - c \) reveals parabolic cylinders, which are the level surfaces defined by the constant \( c \).
- The constant \( c \) shifts the surface up or down along the \( z \)-axis, without affecting its parabolic form.