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Linear Programming Introduction

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Linear Programming Introduction

Linear Programming Introduction

Linear programming graph illustration

📊 Part 1: Diagnostic Test - Variables and Inequalities

1. Define a variable for the following situation: "A bakery sells meat pies and sausage rolls."

Let x = _________________________________

Let y = _________________________________

2. Circle the correct inequality that represents "The bakery can make at most 150 pies per day":

x = 150

x ≤ 150

x ≥ 150

x > 150

3. Why do we use inequalities instead of equalities when modelling real-world constraints?
4. Graph the inequality x ≥ 0 on the number line below:

🏭 Part 2: Understanding Variables and Constraints

5. A furniture factory produces chairs and tables. Complete the following:

a) Define variables: Let x = _________________ and y = _________________

b) The factory cannot produce negative quantities. Write this constraint:

_______ and _______

c) The factory has 200 hours of labour available. If chairs take 3 hours and tables take 5 hours to make, write the constraint:

_________________________________

6. Check all statements that represent constraints in linear programming:

The number of products must be non-negative

There is unlimited money available

Materials are limited

Time is unlimited

Storage space has a maximum capacity

🎯 Part 3: Writing Inequalities from Context

7. A toy company makes cars (x) and dolls (y). Write inequalities for each constraint:

Scenario: The company has the following limitations:

• They cannot make negative quantities

• Each car uses 4 units of wood, each doll uses 3 units. Maximum wood available: 120 units

• Each car takes 2 hours to make, each doll takes 3 hours. Maximum labour: 90 hours

• They must make at least 5 cars to meet a contract

8. Match each constraint type with its mathematical representation:
1. Non-negativity
2. Resource limit
3. Minimum requirement
4. Maximum capacity
A. x + y ≤ 100
B. x ≥ 0, y ≥ 0
C. 2x + 3y ≤ 150
D. x ≥ 10

💰 Part 4: Real-World Application

9. A student has $50 to spend on lunch for the week. Sandwiches cost $8 each and salads cost $12 each.

a) Define variables: s = _____________, l = _____________

b) Write the budget constraint: _________________________________

c) Write the non-negativity constraints: _______ and _______

d) If the student wants to buy at least 2 sandwiches, write this constraint: _______

10. Explain in your own words what linear programming is used for:

🤔 Part 5: Reflection and Extension

11. Create your own linear programming scenario involving time management. Define variables and write at least 3 constraints:
12. Circle the statement that best describes why we study linear programming:

To make mathematics more difficult

To find the best solution when resources are limited

To practice drawing graphs

To learn about factories only

13. What questions do you have about linear programming after today's lesson?

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