How to Solve Optimization Problems in Calculus
Need to solve Optimization problems in Calculus? Let’s break ’em down and develop a strategy that you can use to solve them routinely for yourself. Overview Optimization problems will always ask you to maximize or minimize some quantity, having described the situation using words (instead of immediately giving you a function to max/minimize). Typical phrases… [read more]
least expensive open-topped can (optimization problem)
Calculus Optimization Problem: What dimensions minimize the cost of an open-topped can? An open-topped cylindrical can must contain V cm$^3$ of liquid. (A typical can of soda, for example, has V = 355 cm$^3$.) What dimensions will minimize the cost of metal to construct the can? Calculus Solution We’ll use our standard Optimization Problem Solving… [read more]
