Volume optimization of a cuboid

Volume optimization of a cuboid This is an extension of the Nrich task which is currently live - where students have to find the maximum volume of a cuboid formed by cutting squares of size x from each corner of a 20 x 20 piece of paper.  I'm going to use an n x 10 rectangle... Continue Reading →

Optimization of area – an investigation

This is an example of how an investigation into area optimisation could progress.  The problem is this: A farmer has 40m of fencing.  What is the maximum area he can enclose? Case 1:  The rectangle: Reflection - the rectangle turns out to be a square, with sides 10m by 10m.  Therefore the area enclosed is... Continue Reading →

How to Avoid The Troll: A Puzzle

This is a nice example of using some maths to solve a puzzle from the mindyourdecisions youtube channel (screencaptures from the video). How to Avoid The Troll: A Puzzle In these situations it's best to look at the extreme case first so you get some idea of the problem.  If you are feeling particularly pessimistic... Continue Reading →

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