Derivatives play a crucial role in many real-world applications, including finding the equations of tangent lines and solving optimization problems. Derivatives provide us with rates of change, slopes of curves, and help us determine the maximum and minimum values of functions, which is key in optimization.
1. Tangent Lines
One of the most fundamental applications of derivatives is finding the equation of the tangent line to a curve at a given point. The derivative of a function at a particular point gives the slope of the tangent line to the curve at that point.
The equation of a tangent line to the curve
Where
Example 1: Finding the Equation of a Tangent Line
Problem:
Find the equation of the tangent line to the curve
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the function to get the slope of the tangent line:
Now, evaluate the derivative at
So, the slope of the tangent line is
Next, find the coordinates of the point of tangency:
The point of tangency is
Now, write the equation of the tangent line using the point-slope form:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, the equation of the tangent line is
2. Optimization
In calculus, optimization involves finding the maximum or minimum values of a function. These can represent the highest or lowest points on a graph, the largest or smallest values a quantity can take, or even the most efficient way to do something in real life. The derivative is key in solving these types of problems because the points where the derivative equals zero (called critical points) can be potential maxima or minima.
To solve an optimization problem:
- Find the derivative of the function.
- Set the derivative equal to zero to find critical points.
- Test the critical points (and endpoints, if applicable) to determine whether they are maxima, minima, or neither.
Example 2: Optimization Problem
Problem:
A farmer wants to build a rectangular fence using 100 meters of fencing. What dimensions should the farmer use to maximize the area of the fenced region?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The perimeter of the rectangle is 100 meters, so:
We need to maximize the area,
Step 2: Solution:
From the perimeter equation, solve for
Now substitute this into the area formula:
To find the maximum area, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero to find the critical points:
Now substitute
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions of the rectangle that maximize the area are
3. Maximizing Revenue or Profit
Another common application of derivatives is in economics, particularly when trying to maximize revenue or profit.
Example 3: Maximizing Profit
Problem:
A company’s profit function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The profit function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the profit function:
Now, set the derivative equal to zero to find the critical points:
To determine if this is a maximum, take the second derivative:
Since the second derivative is negative, the function has a maximum at
Step 3: Final Answer:
The company should sell 40 products to maximize its profit.
4. Minimizing Cost
In some cases, derivatives are used to minimize costs in manufacturing or construction problems.
Example 4: Minimizing Cost
Problem:
A company needs to design a cylindrical can with a volume of 1000 cubic centimeters. What dimensions of the can will minimize the cost of materials if the cost is proportional to the surface area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The volume of the cylinder is
The surface area of the can is
Step 2: Solution:
First, solve the volume equation for
Now substitute this into the surface area equation:
To minimize the surface area, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero to find the critical points:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The radius that minimizes the cost is approximately
Conclusion
The tangent line to a curve gives the slope and the equation of the line that just touches the curve at a specific point, which is useful for approximating values of functions. In optimization problems, derivatives help us find the maximum and minimum values of functions, whether we are trying to maximize profits, minimize costs, or optimize the use of resources.
By understanding the concepts of critical points, maxima, and minima, you can tackle a wide variety of real-world problems where optimization plays a critical role.
Example 1: Finding the Equation of a Tangent Line
Problem:
Find the equation of the tangent line to the curve
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the function to get the slope of the tangent line:
Now, evaluate the derivative at
So, the slope of the tangent line is
Next, find the coordinates of the point of tangency:
The point of tangency is
Now, write the equation of the tangent line using the point-slope form:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Example 2: Optimization Problem (Maximizing Area)
Problem:
A rectangular garden is to be fenced using 60 meters of fencing. What dimensions should the garden have to maximize the area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
We need to maximize the area:
Step 2: Solution:
From the perimeter equation, solve for
Substituting into the area formula gives:
To find the maximum area, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero to find critical points:
Now, substitute
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that maximize the area are
Example 3: Maximizing Profit
Problem:
A company’s profit function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The profit function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the profit function:
Set the derivative equal to zero to find critical points:
To determine if this is a maximum, take the second derivative:
Since the second derivative is negative, the function has a maximum at
Step 3: Final Answer:
The company should sell 20 items to maximize profit.
Example 4: Minimizing Cost
Problem:
A manufacturer produces a product at a cost given by the function
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the cost function:
Set the derivative equal to zero to find critical points:
Since
Step 3: Final Answer:
The minimum cost does not occur at a feasible production level based on the critical point analysis. Therefore, we need to analyze feasible production levels.
Example 5: Tangent Line at a Trigonometric Function
Problem:
Find the equation of the tangent line to the curve
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the function to get the slope of the tangent line:
Now, evaluate the derivative at
So, the slope of the tangent line is
Next, find the coordinates of the point of tangency:
The point of tangency is
Now, write the equation of the tangent line using the point-slope form:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Example 6: Optimization with a Fixed Cost
Problem:
A company can produce a fixed volume of 5000 cubic meters of a product using a rectangular box. What dimensions will minimize the surface area of the box if the height is fixed at 10 meters?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
The volume of the box is given by:
Thus, we have:
The surface area of the box is given by:
Step 2: Solution:
Substituting
To find the minimum area, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that minimize the surface area are approximately
Example 7: Maximizing the Area of a Triangle
Problem:
A triangle has a fixed base of 10 meters. What height should be used to maximize the area of the triangle?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The area of a triangle is given by:
Let the base be
Step 2: Solution:
The area becomes:
To maximize the area, we can see that as
Step 3: Final Answer:
The area of the triangle increases with height; there is no maximum height constraint given in this problem, so the area can be made arbitrarily large.
Example 8: Minimizing the Length of a Fence
Problem:
A farmer wants to fence a rectangular area of 2000 square meters. What dimensions should the farmer use to minimize the length of the fence?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
Step 2: Solution:
From the area equation, solve for
The perimeter (length of the fence) is given by:
To minimize the perimeter, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that minimize the length of the fence are approximately
Example 9: Maximizing Volume of a Box
Problem:
A box with a square base is to be made with a surface area of 600 square meters. What dimensions will maximize the volume of the box?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the side length of the base be
Step 2: Solution:
From the surface area equation, solve for
Now, the volume of the box is given by:
Substituting for
To find the maximum volume, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that maximize the volume are approximately
Example 10: Minimizing Distance
Problem:
A point is located at
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the point on the line be
Step 2: Solution:
The distance formula is given by:
Substituting for
To minimize
To find the minimum distance, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The point on the line
Example 11: Maximizing Area of a Triangle (Again)
Problem:
Given a fixed perimeter of a triangle of 60 meters, what dimensions yield the maximum area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the lengths of the sides be
Step 2: Solution:
To maximize the area, we can use Heron’s formula:
where
Assuming
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions of the triangle yielding the maximum area are each approximately 20 meters.
Example 12: Cost Minimization Problem
Problem:
A company finds that the cost
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the cost function:
Set the derivative equal to zero to find critical points:
Since negative production doesn’t make sense, we evaluate the cost function at feasible production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The production level cannot be determined from negative values, hence look for minimum costs at feasible limits.
Example 13: Maximizing the Volume of a Rectangular Box
Problem:
A rectangular box with a square base is to have a volume of 500 cubic centimeters. What dimensions will maximize the surface area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the side length of the base be
Step 2: Solution:
From the volume equation, solve for
The surface area
Substituting for
To maximize the surface area, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now substitute back to find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that maximize the surface area are
Example 14: Profit Maximization for a Business
Problem:
A company’s profit function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The profit function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative of the profit function:
Set the derivative equal to zero to find critical points:
To determine if this is a maximum, take the second derivative:
Since the second derivative is negative, the function has a maximum at
Step 3: Final Answer:
The company should sell 20 items to maximize profit.
Example 15: Minimizing Travel Time
Problem:
A car travels from point A to point B, a distance of 120 km. The car’s speed varies according to the function
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The distance is
Step 2: Solution:
We know that time is given by:
Substituting for
To minimize time, we first need to express this as a function of
Step 3: Final Answer:
Using the quadratic formula, we find the optimal time.
The solution would yield two time values; choose the one that makes sense in the context of travel time.
Example 16: Cost Minimization in Manufacturing
Problem:
The cost
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
Find the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Using the quadratic formula:
The solutions indicate no real solution for minimum cost.
Step 3: Final Answer:
In practical terms, review cost equations to check feasible production levels.
Example 17: Revenue Maximization
Problem:
A company sells its product at a price given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Revenue
Step 2: Solution:
Find the derivative of the revenue function:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The company should sell 25 products to maximize revenue.
Example 18: Area of a Rectangle
Problem:
Find the dimensions of a rectangle with a fixed perimeter of 50 meters that maximizes the area.
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
Thus,
Step 2: Solution:
The area
Substituting gives:
To find the maximum area, take the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Substituting back for
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions of the rectangle that maximize the area are
Example 19: Minimizing the Surface Area of a Cylinder
Problem:
A cylinder has a volume of 500 cm³. What radius and height will minimize the surface area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the radius be
Step 2: Solution:
From the volume equation, solve for
The surface area
Substituting for
To minimize the surface area, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now substitute to find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The radius that minimizes surface area is approximately
Example 20: Profit Maximization in Production
Problem:
A firm’s profit function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The profit function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
To confirm it’s a maximum, check the second derivative:
Since the second derivative is positive,
Step 3: Final Answer:
The firm should produce 4 units to maximize profit.
Example 21: Maximum Area of a Triangle
Problem:
Find the dimensions of a triangle with a fixed perimeter of 30 meters that maximizes the area.
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the sides of the triangle be
For maximization, assume
Step 2: Solution:
The area
Substituting for
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that maximize the area are
Example 22: Minimizing the Length of a Fence
Problem:
A farmer wants to fence a rectangular area with a fixed area of 200 square meters. What dimensions will minimize the length of the fence?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let
Thus,
Step 2: Solution:
The perimeter
To minimize the perimeter, take the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Now substitute back to find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that minimize the length of the fence are approximately
Example 23: Maximizing a Cylinder’s Volume
Problem:
Find the radius and height of a cylinder that maximizes the volume when the surface area is fixed at 300 square centimeters.
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The surface area of the cylinder is given by:
The volume is:
Step 2: Solution:
From the surface area equation, solve for
Substitute this into the volume formula:
Now, take the derivative of
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Substituting back to find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions can be calculated for
Example 24: Minimizing Cost in a Factory
Problem:
A factory’s cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Since a negative production level is not feasible, evaluate the cost function at production levels within practical limits.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Analyze cost across a reasonable range of
Example 25: Revenue Optimization
Problem:
A company’s revenue function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The revenue function is
Step 2: Solution:
Find the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
To confirm it’s a maximum, take the second derivative:
Since the second derivative is negative,
Step 3: Final Answer:
The company should sell 12.5 units to maximize revenue.
Example 26: Cost Function Optimization
Problem:
A cost function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
First, find the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Check the second derivative:
Since the second derivative is positive,
Step 3: Final Answer:
The production level that minimizes cost is
Example 27: Finding Maximum Height of a Projectile
Problem:
A projectile is launched with a height given by the equation
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The height function is
Step 2: Solution:
Find the derivative:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Substituting
Step 3: Final Answer:
The maximum height reached is
Example 28: Minimizing Material Usage
Problem:
A cylindrical container with a volume of 2000 cm³ is to be made. What radius minimizes the amount of material used?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The volume is given by:
From this, we can express
Step 2: Solution:
The surface area
Substituting
Differentiate
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The radius that minimizes material usage is approximately
Example 29: Finding Maximum Volume
Problem:
A box is to be made from a rectangular piece of cardboard by cutting out squares from the corners. If the cardboard is 20 cm by 30 cm and the squares cut are of size
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The volume
Step 2: Solution:
Expanding the volume formula:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Using the quadratic formula:
Solve for
Step 3: Final Answer:
Calculate
Example 30: Area of a Triangle Optimization
Problem:
A triangle has a base of 10 meters. What height maximizes the area of the triangle?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Area of the triangle is given by:
So,
Step 2: Solution:
Since area increases with height, maximize
Step 3: Final Answer:
Area is maximized when
Example 31: Profit from Selling Price
Problem:
The profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The selling price should be set to maximize when
Example 32: Cost Minimization in Shipping
Problem:
A shipping company wants to minimize costs while maintaining a certain volume. The cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimension that minimizes cost is
Example 33: Finding Maximum Revenue from Sales
Problem:
A sales function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Revenue is maximized at a sales level of
Example 34: Minimizing Water Usage in a Garden
Problem:
A gardener has a rectangular plot of land with a fixed area of 400 square meters. What dimensions minimize the perimeter, thereby reducing water usage?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
Step 2: Solution:
Perimeter:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Now find
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that minimize the perimeter are
Example 35: Maximizing Efficiency
Problem:
A company has an efficiency function given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The production level that maximizes efficiency is
Example 36: Cost Function with Constraints
Problem:
A manufacturing company’s cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
The cost function is
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Since a negative production level is not feasible, check costs over practical values of
Step 3: Final Answer:
Optimize around
Example 37: Energy Consumption Minimization
Problem:
An energy consumption function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero and solve for
Using the quadratic formula:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Calculate
Example 38: Balancing a Profit Function
Problem:
A profit function is represented as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 39: Finding Minimum Cost in Manufacturing
Problem:
A company has a cost function given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate costs at feasible levels of
Step 3: Final Answer:
Analyze cost around practical production levels.
Example 40: Supply Function Maximization
Problem:
A company’s supply function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum supply occurs at
Example 41: Minimizing Advertising Cost
Problem:
An advertising cost function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Check costs at feasible levels of advertisements.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Determine practical
Example 42: Profit Function in Retail
Problem:
A retail store’s profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximized profit occurs at
Example 43: Optimization of Travel Costs
Problem:
A travel cost function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate costs around practical travel distances.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess distance choices for cost minimization.
Example 44: Minimizing Distance Traveled
Problem:
A delivery service wants to minimize the distance traveled, modeled by the function
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum distance occurs at
Example 45: Cost Function Analysis
Problem:
A cost function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for practical production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess practical production levels to minimize cost.
Example 46: Maximizing a Product’s Profit
Problem:
A product’s profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 47: Minimizing Fuel Consumption
Problem:
A car’s fuel consumption can be modeled by the function
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for practical speeds for fuel efficiency.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Examine practical values for fuel optimization.
Example 48: Optimizing Material Costs
Problem:
A company’s cost function for material is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Cost is minimized at
Example 49: Minimizing Waste in Production
Problem:
A company produces waste based on the function
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for practical production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Identify practical levels to minimize waste.
Example 50: Revenue Maximization
Problem:
A company’s revenue function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Revenue is maximized at
Example 51: Cost Analysis in Construction
Problem:
A construction company’s cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum cost occurs at
Example 52: Area Optimization
Problem:
A rectangular garden has a fixed perimeter of 60 meters. Find the dimensions that maximize the area.
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let
Thus,
Step 2: Solution:
The area is given by:
Differentiate the area function:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Then,
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that maximize the area are
Example 53: Revenue Optimization
Problem:
The revenue function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
To maximize revenue, sell
Example 54: Finding Optimal Pricing Strategy
Problem:
A pricing function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
The optimal pricing strategy occurs at
Example 55: Minimizing Waste in Packaging
Problem:
The waste function in a factory is represented by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Using the quadratic formula:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Calculate
Example 56: Profit Maximization for a Business
Problem:
A business’s profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 57: Cost Function of a Business
Problem:
A cost function is defined by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate costs at practical levels of
Step 3: Final Answer:
Check for minimized cost across feasible production levels.
Example 58: Volume Optimization of a Box
Problem:
A box’s volume function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Thus,
Step 3: Final Answer:
Volume is maximized at dimensions around
Example 59: Optimal Strategy for Selling Price
Problem:
A profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximized profit occurs at a selling price of
Example 60: Cost Minimization in Production
Problem:
The cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Cost is minimized at
Example 61: Area Optimization for a Rectangle
Problem:
A rectangular area has a fixed perimeter of 50 meters. What dimensions maximize the area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
So,
Step 2: Solution:
Area is given by:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Then,
Step 3: Final Answer:
Dimensions that maximize area are
Example 62: Finding Optimal Production Levels
Problem:
A factory’s production function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum output occurs at
Example 63: Optimizing Distribution of Resources
Problem:
A company wants to minimize the cost of production given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Cost is minimized at
Example 64: Revenue Maximization from Sales
Problem:
A sales revenue function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximized revenue occurs when selling
Example 65: Cost of Manufacturing Process
Problem:
A manufacturing cost function is defined by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum cost occurs at
Example 66: Finding Maximum Production Levels
Problem:
A production function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum production occurs at
Example 67: Minimizing Costs in a Factory
Problem:
A factory’s cost function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Evaluate costs at feasible levels of production.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess production levels for minimized costs.
Example 68: Area Maximization for a Rectangular Plot
Problem:
A rectangular plot has a fixed perimeter of 40 meters. What dimensions maximize the area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let the length be
Thus,
Step 2: Solution:
Area is given by:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Then,
Step 3: Final Answer:
The dimensions that maximize area are
Example 69: Finding Minimum Cost for Product Production
Problem:
A product’s cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Evaluate costs at feasible levels of production.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Analyze production levels to minimize costs.
Example 70: Maximizing Advertising Effectiveness
Problem:
An advertising effectiveness function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum effectiveness occurs at
Example 71: Finding Maximum Volume of a Box
Problem:
A box is constructed from a square piece of cardboard by cutting out squares from the corners. If the cardboard is 12 cm by 12 cm, find the side length of the squares cut to maximize the volume of the box.
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Dividing by 12:
Using the quadratic formula:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Calculate
Example 72: Maximizing Return on Investment
Problem:
A return function is defined by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum return occurs at an investment level of
Example 73: Optimizing Factory Production
Problem:
A factory’s production function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum production occurs at
Example 74: Minimizing Waste in Production
Problem:
A waste function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum waste occurs at
Example 75: Finding Maximum Production for a Product
Problem:
The production function is defined by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum production occurs at
Example 76: Cost Minimization in Shipping
Problem:
A shipping cost function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Evaluate for practical shipping levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess practical levels for minimized shipping costs.
Example 77: Revenue Optimization for a Service
Problem:
A service’s revenue function is represented as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Revenue is maximized at a service level of approximately
Example 78: Profit Maximization in a Business Model
Problem:
A business’s profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 79: Cost Function Analysis for a Retail Store
Problem:
A retail store’s cost function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum cost occurs at
Example 80: Area Optimization for a Circular Plot
Problem:
A circular garden has a fixed area of 100 square meters. What radius maximizes the area?
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Let
Step 2: Solution:
Solve for
Step 3: Final Answer:
The radius that maximizes area is approximately
Example 81: Finding Optimal Production Levels
Problem:
A company’s production function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum output occurs at
Example 82: Minimizing Costs in a Factory
Problem:
A factory’s cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for practical levels of production.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess practical levels for minimized costs.
Example 83: Revenue Maximization for a Business
Problem:
A company’s revenue function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative equal to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Revenue is maximized when
Example 84: Minimizing Shipping Costs
Problem:
A shipping cost function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum cost occurs at
Example 85: Maximizing Profit in a Manufacturing Plant
Problem:
A profit function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 86: Cost Function Optimization in Production
Problem:
The cost function is defined by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum cost occurs at
Example 87: Optimizing Advertising Strategy
Problem:
An advertising function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum effectiveness occurs at
Example 88: Cost Minimization in a Production Plant
Problem:
A cost function is defined by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate costs at feasible levels of production.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess production levels to minimize costs.
Example 89: Revenue Optimization for a New Product
Problem:
A new product’s revenue function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximized revenue occurs at a production level of
Example 90: Finding Optimal Pricing for Maximum Revenue
Problem:
The revenue function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum revenue occurs at a price level of
Example 91: Cost Minimization in a Factory
Problem:
A factory’s cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for practical production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Analyze production levels to minimize costs.
Example 92: Maximizing a Function’s Output
Problem:
A function
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum output occurs at
Example 93: Finding Minimum Production Levels
Problem:
A production cost function is given by
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for feasible production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess production levels for minimized costs.
Example 94: Revenue Function Maximization
Problem:
A revenue function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum revenue occurs at a production level of
Example 95: Cost Function Analysis in Manufacturing
Problem:
A manufacturing cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Minimum cost occurs at
Example 96: Profit Maximization in a Retail Store
Problem:
A retail store’s profit function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 97: Cost Function Minimization in Production
Problem:
A production cost function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate for practical production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Analyze production levels for minimized costs.
Example 98: Revenue Maximization for a Business Strategy
Problem:
A business strategy’s revenue function is
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum revenue occurs at a production strategy of
Example 99: Profit Maximization in Retail
Problem:
A retail profit function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maximum profit occurs at
Example 100: Minimizing Cost in a Production Facility
Problem:
A production cost function is defined as
Answer:
Step 1: Given Data:
Step 2: Solution:
Differentiate:
Set the derivative to zero:
Evaluate costs at practical production levels.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Assess production levels for minimized costs.