Implicit equation 2026-10-18
An implicit equation specifies a relation between variables without isolating a designated output as an explicit function of the inputs. For example, specifies a circle. On , it determines the two real branches , each an implicit function when one branch is selected. The implicit function theorem gives local conditions for a unique differentiable branch; implicit differentiation computes its derivative without first solving explicitly.
Implicit function 2026-10-18
An implicit function is a function specified through a relation between its input and output, rather than an explicit output formula. Locally, an equation may specify if one output is selected for each input in a suitable domain. Different branches can define different functions; the relation itself need not give a unique output globally. For example, gives the two branches on .
The implicit function theorem gives sufficient conditions for a unique local differentiable branch, while implicit differentiation computes its derivative by the chain rule. If is continuously differentiable and , that derivative is along the branch.
Put . Apply implicit differentiation with respect to and , using the chain rule:
Consequently
At a point where the assumed differentiable function exists, the first equation forces . Combining the equations therefore gives
The assertion is understood on such differentiable branches of the implicit function; arbitrary parameter choices need not produce one everywhere.