Derivative Formulas and Gradient of Functions with Non-Independent Variables

Abstract

Stochastic characterizations of functions subject to constraints result in treating them as functions with non-independent variables. By using the distribution function or copula of the input variables that comply with such constraints, we derive two types of partial derivatives of functions with non-independent variables (i.e., actual and dependent derivatives) and argue in favor of the latter. Dependent partial derivatives of functions with non-independent variables rely on the dependent Jacobian matrix of non-independent variables, which is also used to define a tensor metric. The differential geometric framework allows us to derive the gradient, Hessian, and Taylor-type expansions of functions with non-independent variables.