Wetzel

Math 140

3.7 – Optimization Problems

Optimization – Applied Maximum and Minimum Problems

            Primary Equation – An equation involving what is being maximized or minimized

            Secondary Equation – An equation that is substituted into the Primary Equation.

Ex.:

1.)  An open box is created from taking a square, 24 in. piece of cardboard, cutting equal squares from the corners, and turning up the sides.  What size squares should be cut out in the corners in order to maximize the volume of the box?

2.)  A farmer plans to fence a rectangular pasture adjacent to a river.  The pasture must contain 420,000 square meters in order to provide enough grass for the herd.  What dimensions would require the least amount of fencing if no fencing is needed along the river?

HW:  p.223  #19, 20, 21, 23, 29