Math Problem Statement

Brittany and Wiyot wants to raise iguanas in a rectangular field with four internal partitions as shown. If the area of the field must be square feet, what dimensions will require the least fencing? What should the length and width be?

Solution

To solve this problem, we need to minimize the total length of fencing required, given the fixed area of the field. Here's the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Define the Variables

  • Let the length of the field be LL.
  • Let the width of the field be WW.
  • The area of the rectangular field is given by: A=L×W=square feetA = L \times W = \text{square feet}

The total fencing includes the perimeter and the internal partitions.

Step 2: Total Fencing Requirement

  • The field has 2 lengths and 6 widths (4 internal partitions add to the width fencing), so the total fencing is: F=2L+6WF = 2L + 6W

Step 3: Express One Variable in Terms of the Other

From the area constraint: W=ALW = \frac{A}{L}

Step 4: Substitute WW into the Fencing Equation

Substitute W=ALW = \frac{A}{L} into FF: F=2L+6(AL)F = 2L + 6\left(\frac{A}{L}\right)

Simplify: F=2L+6ALF = 2L + \frac{6A}{L}

Step 5: Minimize the Fencing Function

To minimize FF, take the derivative with respect to LL, set it to 0, and solve for LL: dFdL=26AL2\frac{dF}{dL} = 2 - \frac{6A}{L^2}

Set dFdL=0\frac{dF}{dL} = 0: 2=6AL22 = \frac{6A}{L^2}

Multiply through by L2L^2: 2L2=6A2L^2 = 6A

Solve for L2L^2: L2=3AL^2 = 3A

Take the square root: L=3AL = \sqrt{3A}

Step 6: Solve for WW

Using W=ALW = \frac{A}{L}: W=A3A=A3W = \frac{A}{\sqrt{3A}} = \frac{\sqrt{A}}{\sqrt{3}}

Step 7: Final Dimensions

  • Length: L=3AL = \sqrt{3A}
  • Width: W=A3W = \frac{\sqrt{A}}{\sqrt{3}}

Substitute AA with the given area to get the exact dimensions. If you provide the value of AA, I can calculate the specific dimensions for you.

Would you like me to proceed with numerical calculations? Let me know!


Questions:

  1. What is the exact area of the field in square feet?
  2. Do you want a detailed explanation of the optimization process?
  3. Should we explore how the internal partitions affect the fencing further?
  4. Would you like to see a diagram of the fencing setup for better visualization?
  5. Should we consider any constraints or practical adjustments in the dimensions?

Tip:

When minimizing functions in geometry problems, ensure you consider constraints properly to avoid missing real-world implications.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Optimization
Geometry
Calculus

Formulas

Area of a rectangle: A = L × W
Fencing requirement: F = 2L + 6W
Relationship between width and length using area: W = A / L
Minimization function: F = 2L + 6(A / L)

Theorems

First derivative test for optimization

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12