Math Problem Statement

a box with an open top is to be constructed from a rectangular piece of cardboard with dimension 6 in. by 10 in. by cutting out equal squares of side x at each corner and then folding up the sides as shown in the figure. express the volume v of the box as a function of x

Solution

To find the volume VV of the box as a function of xx, let's follow the steps described:

  1. Start with the original dimensions of the cardboard:

    • Length = 10 inches
    • Width = 6 inches
  2. Cut out equal squares of side xx from each corner:

    • The size of each square is x×xx \times x.
  3. Modify the dimensions of the cardboard after cutting:

    • The new length of the box after folding will be 102x10 - 2x (since squares are cut from both ends of the 10-inch side).
    • The new width of the box will be 62x6 - 2x (since squares are cut from both ends of the 6-inch side).
  4. Height of the box:

    • The height of the box is equal to the side of the square cut out, which is xx.
  5. Volume VV of the box:

    • Volume is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the box: V(x)=(102x)(62x)xV(x) = (10 - 2x) \cdot (6 - 2x) \cdot x

Now, let's expand this expression:

V(x)=(102x)(62x)xV(x) = (10 - 2x)(6 - 2x)x

Expanding the terms inside the parentheses first:

(102x)(62x)=6020x12x+4x2=6032x+4x2(10 - 2x)(6 - 2x) = 60 - 20x - 12x + 4x^2 = 60 - 32x + 4x^2

Then, multiply by xx:

V(x)=x(6032x+4x2)V(x) = x(60 - 32x + 4x^2)

Simplify:

V(x)=4x332x2+60xV(x) = 4x^3 - 32x^2 + 60x

So, the volume VV of the box as a function of xx is:

V(x)=4x332x2+60x\boxed{V(x) = 4x^3 - 32x^2 + 60x}

Do you want more details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the maximum possible value of xx for this box to exist?
  2. How can we find the value of xx that maximizes the volume of the box?
  3. What would the volume be if x=1x = 1?
  4. How does changing xx affect the box's volume?
  5. What are the dimensions of the box if x=2x = 2?

Tip: To maximize or minimize functions, consider taking the derivative and finding the critical points!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Algebra

Formulas

Volume formula

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12