Optimization Problem: Particle Distance and Rate of Change

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a particle moving along the positive x-axis and examines its distance from a fixed point (0, 1) at different rates of change. The context is related to concepts in calculus, specifically concerning rates of change and distance functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to establish a function representing the distance between the particle and the point (0, 1) over time. There is uncertainty about the classification of the problem, with some suggesting it may not be an optimization problem, while others propose it could be categorized as a related rates problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the formulation of the distance function, but there is no consensus on the classification of the problem yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and classifications of the problem, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the problem's nature and requirements.

seiferseph
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A particle is traveling along the postivie x-axis at a constant speed of 5 units per second.

a) Where is the point when its distance from the point (0, 1) is increasing at a rate of 4 units per second?

b) Where is the point when its distance from the point (0, 1) is increasing at a rate of 6 units per second?

I am completely stuck, I could use some hints, thanks!
 
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Start by writing down a function for the distance between the particle and the point (0,1) as a function of time.

And no, this is not an optimization problem.
 
Tom Mattson said:
Start by writing down a function for the distance between the particle and the point (0,1) as a function of time.
And no, this is not an optimization problem.

one sec i'll post some stuff i was trying, and the question isn't optimization but I'm not really sure how to classify it
 
actually this would be a related rates problem then
 

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