Minimizing Surface Area of a Can

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical problem of minimizing the surface area of a cylindrical can, focusing on the derivation and solution of the surface area formula and its derivative. Participants explore the differentiation process and the implications of the results.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the surface area formula as SA = 2(pi)r^2 + 2(pi)r(245.45 / (pi)r^2) and attempts to find the radius that minimizes this area.
  • Another participant humorously suggests that minimizing the can's surface area could be achieved by setting the radius to zero, identifying it as a root of the derivative equation.
  • A third participant points out a potential error in the differentiation process, asserting that the correct derivative should be dS/dr = 4(pi)r - 490.9/r^2.
  • Further clarification is provided regarding the differentiation, emphasizing the need to correct the exponent in the derivative expression.
  • Participants acknowledge the commonality of making simple mistakes in mathematical derivations, highlighting the collaborative nature of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the correct approach to solving for the radius, as participants express differing views on the differentiation process and its implications. Some participants challenge the calculations while others provide corrections, indicating ongoing debate.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the mathematical steps involved in differentiating the surface area function, and there are indications of confusion regarding the correct formulation of the derivative.

JJV19
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This is what i have so far

SA = 2(pi)r^2 + 2(pi)r(245.45 / (pi)r^2)

Derivative of SA = - 490.9r^2 + 4(pi)r

0 = -490.9r^2 + 4(pi)r

and I'm stuck at this step.. I've tried a bunch of things to try and solve for r but i can't seam to get a logical answer for the radius of the minimized pop can
 
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minimise, that's something new, well to minimise why just not have a can at all? make r=0. this is one of the roots of the equation you gave me and it it the only min turnning point as d^2/dx^2 at the point is greater than 0. Moreso the other root 0.025 has d^2y/dx^2 less than 0 making it a maximum turnning point. The working follows:

0 = -490.9r^2 + 4(pi)r
0=r(-490.9r+4(pi))
hence r=0 or 490.9r=4(pi)
r=0 or r=0.02559
 
JJV19 said:
This is what i have so far

SA = 2(pi)r^2 + 2(pi)r(245.45 / (pi)r^2)

Derivative of SA = - 490.9r^2 + 4(pi)r

0 = -490.9r^2 + 4(pi)r

and I'm stuck at this step.. I've tried a bunch of things to try and solve for r but i can't seam to get a logical answer for the radius of the minimized pop can

You didn't differentiate S correctly. According to your post,

[tex]S=2\pi r^{2} + 2\pi r(\frac{245.45}{\pi r^{2}}) = 2\pi r^{2} + \frac{490.9}{r}[/tex]

and

[tex]\frac{dS}{dr}=4\pi r - 490.9r^{2}[/tex]

Do you see where your error is?
 
-490.9r^-2 not ^2
 
JohnDuck said:
You didn't differentiate S correctly. According to your post,

[tex]S=2\pi r^{2} + 2\pi r(\frac{245.45}{\pi r^{2}}) = 2\pi r^{2} + \frac{490.9}{r}[/tex]

and

[tex]\frac{dS}{dr}=4\pi r - 490.9r^{2}[/tex]

Do you see where your error is?


thanks a lot both of you lol .. it's funny how the simple mistakes often cause the most grief
 

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