PsychStudent
Jan23-09, 06:22 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
The upper right-hand corner of a piece of paper, 12 in by 8 in is folded over to the bottom edge. How would you fold it to minimize the length of the fold? In other words, how would you choose x to minimize y?
http://www.webassign.net/scalcet/4-7-65.gif
2. Relevant equations
None so far.
3. The attempt at a solution
I haven't a clue how to get started. I know I need to relate the length of y to the length of x and then differentiate and find the minima, but I don't know how to form the initial relationship.
The upper right-hand corner of a piece of paper, 12 in by 8 in is folded over to the bottom edge. How would you fold it to minimize the length of the fold? In other words, how would you choose x to minimize y?
http://www.webassign.net/scalcet/4-7-65.gif
2. Relevant equations
None so far.
3. The attempt at a solution
I haven't a clue how to get started. I know I need to relate the length of y to the length of x and then differentiate and find the minima, but I don't know how to form the initial relationship.