Optimizing Demand Function: Find Units Sold & Price Per Unit | Help Needed

  • Thread starter JBauer
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Function
In summary, the demand function for a product is given by x = D(p) = 1450 - 3p^3, 0<p<7.85. When the price per unit is $5.75, the number of units sold is 879. When 1000 units are sold, the price per unit is $1.83.
  • #1
JBauer
4
0
The demand function for a product is given by

x = D(p) = 1450 - 3p^3, 0<p<7.85 (please note these should both be less-than-or-equal-to signs)

(a) Find the number of units sold when the price per unit is $5.75.

D(5.75) = 1450 - 3(5.75)^3 = 879.67

Did I set this up correctly? Can anyone confirm this answer?


(b) Find the price per unit when 1000 units are sold.

How would I set this up?

Thanks!

J.B.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
i'm really out of touch with this but


your first one appears right. The number of units has to be an integer which you should round down which will yield 879 units, because you cannot sell a fraction of a product!

As for the second one when 1000 units are sold then the D(p) = 1000 and you have to find the value of p then

[tex] 1000 = 1450 - 3p^3 [/tex]

and solve for p
 
  • #3


(a) Yes, you have set it up correctly. The number of units sold when the price per unit is $5.75 is 879.67.

(b) To find the price per unit when 1000 units are sold, we can use the inverse of the demand function. The inverse demand function is given by p = D^-1(x) = (1450 - x/3)^(1/3). So, we can plug in x = 1000 and solve for p.

p = (1450 - 1000/3)^(1/3) = $5.24

Therefore, the price per unit when 1000 units are sold is $5.24.
 

1. What is a demand function?

A demand function is a mathematical representation of the relationship between the quantity of a product or service that consumers are willing and able to purchase at various prices. It shows the quantity demanded at different price levels and is an essential tool in determining the optimal price for a product or service.

2. How is a demand function calculated?

A demand function is typically calculated by analyzing historical sales data and plotting it on a graph. The resulting curve is then fit with a mathematical equation, usually a linear or polynomial function, to determine the relationship between price and quantity demanded.

3. What factors affect the shape of a demand function?

The shape of a demand function is influenced by a variety of factors, including the price of the product or service, consumer income, availability of substitutes, consumer preferences, and market trends. These factors can cause the demand curve to shift or change slope, resulting in a different demand function.

4. How is a demand function used in business?

A demand function is a vital tool for businesses as it helps them determine the optimal price for their product or service. By understanding how changes in price will affect the quantity of demand, businesses can make informed decisions about pricing strategies, production levels, and marketing efforts.

5. What are some limitations of using a demand function?

While a demand function is a valuable tool, it does have some limitations. It assumes that all other factors, such as consumer preferences and income, remain constant, which may not always be the case. Additionally, demand functions are based on historical data and may not accurately predict future demand in a rapidly changing market.

Similar threads

Replies
3
Views
1K
  • General Math
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • General Math
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Biology and Chemistry Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • General Math
Replies
2
Views
6K
  • General Math
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
25
Views
3K
Back
Top