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Methods Applied Optimization

The document discusses applied optimization methods in mathematics, focusing on two exercises. The first exercise finds the maximum area of a rectangular field with a fixed perimeter of 100 meters, concluding that a square of 25 meters by 25 meters maximizes the area. The second exercise minimizes material for an open-top box with a volume of 32 m³, determining optimal dimensions of a 4-meter square base and a height of 2 meters.

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2 views2 pages

Methods Applied Optimization

The document discusses applied optimization methods in mathematics, focusing on two exercises. The first exercise finds the maximum area of a rectangular field with a fixed perimeter of 100 meters, concluding that a square of 25 meters by 25 meters maximizes the area. The second exercise minimizes material for an open-top box with a volume of 32 m³, determining optimal dimensions of a 4-meter square base and a height of 2 meters.

Uploaded by

javiermmanrique433
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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2.

Methods

Mathematical Applications – Applied Optimization


Based on the fundamental concepts of derivatives, the next step consists of applying this
knowledge to real optimization problems. In mathematics, optimization allows us to
determine maximum or minimum values of a function, which is essential in economic,
physical, and engineering contexts. Below are two applied optimization exercises developed
step by step.

Exercise 1: Maximization of the Area of a Rectangular Field


Statement: A rectangular field is to be fenced using 100 meters of fencing. Determine the
dimensions that maximize the area of the field.

Development:

Let x be the width of the rectangle and y be the length. Since the total perimeter is 100
meters:

 2x + 2y = 100
 Solving for y:
 y = 50 − x

The area of the rectangle is given by:

 A(x) = x·y
 Substituting y:
 A(x) = x(50 − x)
 A(x) = 50x − x²

We differentiate the function to find critical points:

 A'(x) = 50 − 2x
 Setting the derivative equal to zero:
 50 − 2x = 0
 x = 25

Substituting into the original equation:

 y = 50 − 25 = 25

Conclusion: The maximum area is obtained when the field is a square measuring 25 meters
by 25 meters.
Exercise 2: Minimization of Material for an Open-Top Box
Statement: An open-top box with a square base must have a volume of 32 m³. Determine the
dimensions that minimize the amount of material used.

Development:

Let x be the side length of the square base and h be the height.

 Volume:
 V = x²h = 32
 Solving for h:
 h = 32 / x²

The surface area (without top) is given by:

 A(x) = x² + 4xh
 Substituting h:
 A(x) = x² + 4x(32 / x²)
 A(x) = x² + 128/x

We differentiate the function:

 A'(x) = 2x − 128/x²
 Setting the derivative equal to zero:
 2x − 128/x² = 0
 Multiplying by x² to eliminate denominators:
 2x³ − 128 = 0
 2x³ = 128
 x³ = 64
 x=4
 Calculating the height:
 h = 32 / 4² = 32 / 16 = 2

Conclusion: The minimum amount of material is obtained when the base measures 4 meters
per side and the height is 2 meters.

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