Maximizing Profit Function Of Two Variables

  • Context: MHB 
  • Thread starter Thread starter MioMio
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Function Variables
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on maximizing the profit function of two variables, K and L, represented by the equation $$\pi(K,L)=K-2K^2-KL-\frac{1}{2}L^2+L+\frac{1}{2}$$. Participants emphasize the importance of finding critical points by solving the first partial derivatives $$\pi_K(K,L)=0$$ and $$\pi_L(K,L)=0$$, followed by applying the second partials test for relative extrema. The conversation highlights the need for clarity in the profit function's formulation and encourages a step-by-step approach to differentiation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of partial derivatives and their applications
  • Familiarity with profit maximization concepts in economics
  • Knowledge of the second partials test for relative extrema
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of finding critical points in multivariable functions
  • Learn about the second partials test and its application in optimization
  • Explore examples of profit maximization in economic models
  • Review differentiation techniques for functions of multiple variables
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in economics, mathematicians, and anyone involved in optimization problems related to profit functions.

MioMio
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
Yes, please help me solve! Explain it very explicitly with equations and not just text.

1) Find the combination of K and L that ensures the maximum profit and find the maximum profit. The profit is given by the following function:where:
 

Attachments

  • KL.png
    KL.png
    1.5 KB · Views: 102
  • KL2.png
    KL2.png
    596 bytes · Views: 106
Physics news on Phys.org
First you need to find the critical points, which will be the solutions of:

\[\pi_K(K,L)=0\]
\[\pi_L(K,L)=0\]

Then you need to use the second partials test for relative extrema. What do you have so far?
 
I have nothing. To be honest with you, I am totally lost. Could you explain it so that even a stupid person might understand it?

I'm sorry to bother you.
 
MioMio said:
I have nothing. To be honest with you, I am totally lost. Could you explain it so that even a stupid person might understand it?

I'm sorry to bother you.

Okay, we are given the profit function:

$$\pi(K,L)=K-2K^2-KL-\frac{1}{2}L^2-\color{red}\frac{1}{4}\color{black}+L+\color{red}\frac{3}{4}$$

After having looked more closely at the profit function, is seems odd to me that there are two constant terms that have not been combined (in red). Before we proceed, are you certain the profit function is stated correctly?
 
I'm 100% sure
 
MioMio said:
I'm 100% sure

Okay, then let's clean it up by combining those term, so that we have:

$$\pi(K,L)=K-2K^2-KL-\frac{1}{2}L^2+L+\frac{1}{2}$$

So, first let's compute the first partial with respect to $K$, denoted by:

$$\pi_K(K,L)$$ or $$\pd{\pi}{K}$$

We use the familiar rules of differentiation, while treating $L$ as a constant. What do you get for this partial?
 
I have actually just found an example in my textbook that resembles this one, so I think I understand it now. I'm really sorry for taking your time, but I hope it's all right if I return to you if I have any questions. And thank you again for taking the time to help me, it means a lot.
 
MioMio said:
I have actually just found an example in my textbook that resembles this one, so I think I understand it now. I'm really sorry for taking your time, but I hope it's all right if I return to you if I have any questions. And thank you again for taking the time to help me, it means a lot.

Glad to help, and certainly if you have any questions when you are working this problem, please don't hesitate to ask. :D
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
29
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
7K
Replies
1
Views
2K