BASIC CALCULUS
LEARNING ACTIVITY SHEET
OPTIMIZATION
Background Information for learners
In this section, we are going to look at optimization problems. In optimization problems, we are
looking for the largest value or the smallest value that a function can take. We saw how to one kind
of optimization problem in the Absolute Extrema section where we found the largest and smallest
value that a function would take on an interval.
Here we will be looking for the largest or smallest value of a function subject to constraint. The
constraint will be some condition (that can usually be described by some equation) that must
absolutely, positively be true no matter what our solution is. On occasion, the constraint will not be
easily described by an equation, but in these problems, it will be easy to deal with as we’ll see.
Let us have an example
Find two positive numbers whose sum is 300 and whose product is a maximum.
Learning Competencies
The students are able to solve optimization problems that yield polynomial functions
STEM_BC11LC-IIIg-2
ACTIVITY 1.
Directions. Give the equation describing the following situation. Write your answer on the box.
1. The sum of the number of 5 times another number is 12.
2. A rectangular piece of land is bordered on one side by a river. The other sides are to be
enclosed by 2000 feet of fencing.
3. Find the positive number such that their product is 198 and the sum of the first plus 5 times
the second is minimum.
4. Find the positive number such that the sum of the first and twice the second is 500 and their
product is minimum.
5. A rectangular playing field is to have an area of 600 m2. Fencing is required to enclose the
field and to divide it into equal halves. Find the dimensions of the field.
ACTIVITY 3.
Directions. Solve the problem. Show your complete solution. [ 1 pt /step (5 pts)]
1. We are going to fence in a rectangular pool. If we look at the pool from above the cost of the
vertical sides are P25/ft, the cost of the bottom is P5/ft and the cost of the top is P15/ft. If
we have P1500 determine the dimensions of the field that will maximize the enclosed area.
2. A farmer has 240 ft of fencing with which to enclose two adjacent rectangular pens as
shown. What dimension should be used so that the enclose area will be a maximum?
Reflection: (The learner writes how he/she feels about the activity.)
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