Maximizing Profit: Solving Polynomial for MP3 Player Ad Expenses

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The discussion focuses on solving the polynomial equation for profit related to MP3 player ad expenses, specifically finding the ad amount that yields a profit of $2,500,000. The equation derived is -76x^3 + 4830x^2 - 2,820,000 = 0, but participants express difficulty in factoring it. Suggestions include using a graphing calculator to visualize the function and approximate solutions. The conversation emphasizes the challenges of finding exact roots and the potential need for numerical methods. Overall, participants agree that approximating the answer may be the most feasible approach.
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Homework Statement



P is profit in dollars of a particular mp3 player.

P = -76x^3 + 4830x^2 - 320000, 0 < x < 60

x is ad expense (in tens of thousands of $.) Find the smaller of two ad amounts that yield a profit of $2,500,000.



The attempt at a solution

All I can do is get this:

-76x^3 + 4830x^2 - 2,820,000 = 0

Now what do I do? I can't seem to factor. The only other way I know of is dividing by possible zeros, and I'm not feeling good about looking for the factors of 2.82 million.
 
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I'm pretty sure it doesn't factor. Are you sure you aren't just supposed to give an approximate answer?
 
I don't know but that'll have to do. There doesn't seem to be another way.
 
-boo boo-
sorry.
 
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Dick said:
In what way does this contribute to helping the OP solve the problem on his own?

Oh my apologies...

*removes post*.
 
matadorqk said:
Oh my apologies...

*removes post*.

Thanks. You do get my point, right? I'm not trying to criticize your wish to help.
 
Last edited:
Yea, the best I can think of is the approximate answer as well.

I just used a brute method on my calculator to narrow it down. You may want to use a graphing calculator(available online) to see what the graph looks like at least.
 
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