Maxima word problem - Not sure about my answer.

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves optimizing the dimensions of a rectangular building with a square base to maximize volume within a budget constraint. The costs of materials for walls and roof are provided, and the relationship between dimensions and volume is central to the discussion.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive dimensions using both a direct approach and a method involving simultaneous equations. Some participants suggest finding an expression for volume in terms of one variable, while others question the assumption that a cube maximizes volume.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods to express volume and questioning the assumptions made about the shape of the building. Guidance has been offered regarding the use of simultaneous equations and substitution to simplify the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the constraints of the budget and the requirement for a square base, while also discussing the implications of using calculus versus algebraic methods.

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Maxima word problem -- Not sure about my answer.

This was in an assignment handed out after our introduction to extrema's.
A builder wants to build a small building consisting of 4 walls and a roof (all rectangular). The cost of the bricks for the walls will be $25/square metre, while the roof materials will cost $55/square metre. The building must have a square base, but otherwise may have any dimensions the builder wishes. If the builder’s budget is $1650 then what dimensions would make the build have the largest possible volume?

The attempt at a solution
Premise: A cube will maximize the volume for surface area in this solution.

Roof (A) = L2
Walls (B) = 4 × (L2)

$1650 = $55A + $25(4B)
$1650 = $55A + $100B

$1650 = $55L2 + $100L2
$1650 = $155L2
$1650 / $155 = L2

L = √($1650 / $155)

L≈3.262692338m
L≈3.263m (3.d.p)

For a calculus problem, I am scared that I have not had to use calculus. :/
There was another approaches before I used this method..
Such as..

================================================
Roof (A) = L2
Walls (B) = 4 × (HL) <------------Where h is an variable height.

1650 = A + 4B
1650 = L2 + 4HL
1650 = 55L2 + 100HL

55L2 + 100HL -1650 = 0

But, I couldn't think beyond this.. :/

Also, using 1650 = 55L2 + 100HL,
I managed to arbitrarily plug and chug a result of L=3m H=3.85m
================================================
EDIT:

I've established that the Volume would be L2H

V = L2H
A = L2
B = HL
 
Last edited:
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Have you tried finding an expression for the volume in terms of H or L alone?
 


Simon Bridge said:
Have you tried finding an expression for the volume in terms of H or L alone?

In which way?

I could make V= 55L2H
{Area of the base × height.}

I haven't tried using my premise that the most efficient {volume:surface area} is a cube, with the implication of V= L3

I'll give that a shot.

Otherwise, I am truly stumped.
 
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No - I mean you have two simultaneous equations and three unknowns ... why not eliminate one of the unknowns in the equation that starts V= ?

For instance ... from 1650=55L2+100HL ... you can solve it for H, then substitute into V=HL2 ... which gives you V in terms of L. Now you can find the maxima.

You could assume that the shape is a cube - but you still have to prove that a cube is the right shape.
 

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