Optimization semicircle problem

In summary, the discussion was about solving an optimization problem involving a Norman window with a semicircle atop a rectangle. The objective was to find the largest possible area of the window with a given perimeter of 28 feet. After some calculations, the correct answer was found to be 54.8897 square feet. The only mistake made was rounding off to one significant figure, resulting in a slightly different answer compared to the one provided in the book.
  • #1
jimen113
67
0
[SOLVED] Optimization problem

Homework Statement



A Norman window has the shape of a semicircle atop a rectangle so that the diameter of the smicircle is equal to the width of the rectangle. What is the area of the largest possible Norman window with a perimeter of 28 feet?

Homework Equations




After solving for b and plugging b into the Area formula I cannot determine the local max. Is the algebra or derivative wrong?

The Attempt at a Solution

please see attachment
 

Attachments

  • homework 8.doc
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  • #2
Thanks for your suggestion, the perimeter of a circle is also also pi*diameter, so then a semi-circle P=1/2pi*d. Which is what I have for the 1st equation
 
  • #3
jimen113 said:

Homework Statement



A Norman window has the shape of a semicircle atop a rectangle so that the diameter of the smicircle is equal to the width of the rectangle. What is the area of the largest possible Norman window with a perimeter of 28 feet?

Homework Equations




After solving for b and plugging b into the Area formula I cannot determine the local max. Is the algebra or derivative wrong?

The Attempt at a Solution

please see attachment

Solution:
A(x)=14b-(4+pi/8)*b^2
A'(x)=14-(4+pi/4)*b
Solve for b: (56/4+pi)
Insert b into the original area formula A(x) and the area of the largest possible window=54.8897ft
The problem was set up correctly except that I rounded off to only one significant figure and that's why my original answer didn't match the answer provided in the book.
 

Related to Optimization semicircle problem

What is the optimization semicircle problem?

The optimization semicircle problem is a mathematical problem where the goal is to find the maximum or minimum value of a function within a semicircular region. This problem is commonly used in engineering and physics to optimize designs or predict the behavior of physical systems.

What are the steps to solve the optimization semicircle problem?

The steps to solve the optimization semicircle problem are:

  1. Identify the function to be optimized
  2. Define the constraints, such as the boundaries of the semicircle region
  3. Use calculus to find the derivative of the function
  4. Set the derivative equal to zero and solve for the critical points
  5. Check the second derivative to determine if the critical points are minimum or maximum values
  6. Evaluate the function at the critical points and the boundaries to determine the optimal value

What are some real-life applications of the optimization semicircle problem?

The optimization semicircle problem can be applied in various real-life scenarios, such as:

  • Designing curved structures, such as bridges and arches, to find the optimal shape and dimensions
  • Predicting the trajectory of a projectile, such as a cannonball, to determine the optimal angle and velocity for maximum distance or accuracy
  • Calculating the most efficient path for a vehicle to travel from one point to another, considering the curvature of the road or terrain

What are the main challenges of solving the optimization semicircle problem?

Some of the main challenges of solving the optimization semicircle problem include:

  • Identifying the correct function to be optimized
  • Choosing appropriate constraints that accurately represent the real-life scenario
  • Dealing with complex mathematical equations and calculations
  • Interpreting and analyzing the results to make meaningful conclusions

Are there any alternative approaches to solving the optimization semicircle problem?

Yes, there are alternative approaches to solving the optimization semicircle problem, such as:

  • Using computer simulations and optimization algorithms to find the optimal solution
  • Breaking down the problem into smaller, simpler parts that can be solved individually and then combined to find the overall optimal solution
  • Using geometric or graphical methods to visualize the problem and identify the optimal solution

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