SS2 MID-TERM PROJECT
GENERAL MATHEMATICS
Topic: Linear Inequalities and Application of Linear Programming in Everyday
Life
Introduction
Linear programming is one of the most useful and practical areas of mathematics applied in
real life.
It is a method used to make the best possible decision when there are limited resources
such as money,
time, labour, or materials.
In everyday life, individuals, businesses, and governments constantly face situations where
they must
choose the most efficient way to use available resources. Linear programming provides a
systematic
and mathematical way of solving these problems by using equations and inequalities.
This project explains the meaning, applications, advantages, disadvantages, methods, and
examples
of linear programming in detail.
1. Meaning of Linear Programming
Linear Programming (LP) is a mathematical technique used to determine the best possible
outcome,
such as maximizing profit or minimizing cost, under a set of given constraints.
It involves linear equations and inequalities which represent limitations such as budget,
time, or
available resources. The key components include decision variables, objective function,
constraints,
and non-negativity conditions.
2. Applications of Linear Programming
Linear programming is widely used in many areas:
- Agriculture: Helps farmers decide the best crops to plant.
- Business: Helps companies maximize profit and reduce cost.
- Transportation: Used to find shortest and cheapest routes.
- Finance: Helps in budgeting and investment planning.
- Daily Life: Helps individuals manage time and money effectively.
For example, a trader can decide how much of each product to buy and sell to maximize
profit.
3. Advantages of Linear Programming
- Maximizes profit and minimizes cost.
- Ensures efficient use of resources.
- Simplifies complex problems.
- Provides clear and logical solutions.
- Applicable in many real-life situations.
4. Disadvantages of Linear Programming
- Assumes all relationships are linear.
- Requires accurate data.
- Ignores uncertainty.
- May give unrealistic answers.
- Does not consider human emotions.
5. Methods of Solving Linear Programming Problems
Steps involved include:
1. Define decision variables.
2. Formulate objective function.
3. Identify constraints.
4. Graph inequalities.
5. Determine feasible region.
6. Find corner points.
7. Evaluate objective function.
6. Additional Example
A company produces chairs and tables. Profit per chair is $50 and per table is $80.
Constraints are based on wood and labor.
Let x = chairs, y = tables
Objective: Maximize P = 50x + 80y
Constraints:
x + y ≤ 100
2x + y ≤ 150
x ≥ 0, y ≥ 0
By solving graphically, the optimal solution can be found at a corner point.
7. Real-Life Importance
Linear programming helps businesses grow, reduces waste, improves planning,
and supports better decision-making in society.
8. Conclusion
Linear programming is a powerful mathematical tool used to solve real-life problems
involving limited resources. It improves efficiency and helps in making better decisions.
9. Recommendation
Students should practice more problems. Teachers should use real-life examples.
Businesses should apply linear programming for better productivity.