Help Maximize P=xyz with x+y=30, y+z=30, x,y,z>=0

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around maximizing the expression P=xyz under the constraints x+y=30, y+z=30, and x, y, z being non-negative. Participants are exploring the implications of these constraints on the values of x, y, and z.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to differentiate P with respect to x and analyze the resulting expressions. There is a focus on the implications of obtaining negative values for z and whether such solutions can be discarded. Some participants are questioning the algebraic manipulations related to the expressions for y and z.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants clarifying their understanding of the relationships between the variables. There is acknowledgment of a mistake in the algebraic setup, leading to a reevaluation of the expressions for y and z. Some guidance has been provided regarding the correct interpretation of the constraints.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the requirement that x, y, and z must be non-negative, which complicates the solutions derived from their calculations. The discussion reflects a mix of algebraic exploration and conceptual clarification regarding the problem's constraints.

tony873004
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Maximize P=xyz with x+y=30, y+z=30, and x,y, and z >= 0.
[tex] \begin{array}{l}<br /> {<br /> \\ <br /> y = 30 - x \\ <br /> \\ <br /> z = 30 - y\,\, \Rightarrow \,\,z = 30 - 30 - x = - x \\ <br /> \end{array}[/tex]
This is a problem, because if z is negative x according to the question, they must both be 0 or positive. This isn't a problem if x = 0, and that's what I get as 1 of two solutions by differentiating P when written in terms of x, and setting it to 0.
[tex] \begin{array}{l}<br /> P = x(30 - x)( - x) = \left( { - x} \right)^2 (30 - x) = - 30x^2 + x^3 \\ <br /> P = x^3 - 30x^2 \\ <br /> \\ <br /> P' = 3x^2 - 60x \\ <br /> P' = x(3x - 60) \\ <br /> \end{array}[/tex]
[tex] x = 0[/tex]
and
[tex] 3x - 60 = 0\,\, \Rightarrow \,\,3x = 60\,\, \Rightarrow \,\,x = \frac{{60}}{3} = 20[/tex]
The z=-x isn't a problem in the x=0 solution, but it is a problem in the x=20 solution. This gives me x=20, y=10, z=-20 P=xyz=-4000.

The back of the book gives x=20, y=10, z=20 P=4000.

If z >= 0 and I get -20 for z, I can't just switch it to positive, can I? Don't I have to discard that solution?
 
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tony873004 said:
Maximize P=xyz with x+y=30, y+z=30, and x,y, and z >= 0.
[tex] \begin{array}{l}<br /> {<br /> \\ <br /> y = 30 - x \\ <br /> \\ <br /> z = 30 - y\,\, \Rightarrow \,\,z = 30 - 30 - x = - x \\ <br /> \end{array}[/tex]
This is a problem, because if z is negative x according to the question, they must both be 0 or positive.
Watch out! 30-y is NOT 30-30-x!
(you will go :cry: when you will see what I mean)

;-)

Pat
 
:cry:

30-(30-x)
30-30+x

:approve:
 
tony873004 said:
:cry:

30-(30-x)
30-30+x

:approve:
:biggrin: Yes...so z=x (which was clear from x+y = 30 and z+y = 30, wasn't it? :shy: )
 
yes it was, thanks!
 

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