Math Problem Statement

Given revenue and cost the functions R(x)=-4x^2+31x C(x)=11x+29
determine the value of x that maximizes profit

Solution

The profit P(x)P(x) is defined as the difference between revenue R(x)R(x) and cost C(x)C(x):

P(x)=R(x)C(x)P(x) = R(x) - C(x)

Step 1: Substitute the functions R(x)R(x) and C(x)C(x):

P(x)=(4x2+31x)(11x+29)P(x) = (-4x^2 + 31x) - (11x + 29)

Simplify: P(x)=4x2+31x11x29P(x) = -4x^2 + 31x - 11x - 29 P(x)=4x2+20x29P(x) = -4x^2 + 20x - 29

Step 2: Find the value of xx that maximizes P(x)P(x).

The profit function P(x)P(x) is a quadratic equation, and it opens downward because the coefficient of x2x^2 is negative. To find the xx-value that maximizes profit, we use the formula for the vertex of a parabola:

x=b2ax = -\frac{b}{2a}

Here, a=4a = -4 and b=20b = 20. Substitute these values: x=202(4)x = -\frac{20}{2(-4)} x=208=2.5x = \frac{20}{8} = 2.5

Step 3: Verify the result.

The value of x=2.5x = 2.5 maximizes the profit function P(x)P(x).

Step 4: Interpret the result.

The maximum profit occurs when x=2.5x = 2.5.

Would you like me to calculate the maximum profit or analyze further?


5 Related Questions:

  1. How do you compute the maximum profit for this function?
  2. What happens to profit as xx increases beyond the maximizing value?
  3. Can you find the breakeven points (values of xx where profit equals zero)?
  4. How do changes in the revenue or cost functions affect the profit-maximizing value of xx?
  5. What is the significance of a negative coefficient for x2x^2 in the profit function?

Tip:

The vertex formula x=b2ax = -\frac{b}{2a} is a quick and reliable way to find the maximum or minimum of any quadratic function. Always check the sign of aa to determine the direction of the parabola.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Functions
Profit Maximization

Formulas

Profit function: P(x) = R(x) - C(x)
Vertex formula: x = -b / (2a)

Theorems

Vertex theorem for quadratics

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12