How to Optimize Cone Volume with Given Slant Height?

In summary, the problem is to find the radius and height that will give the maximal volume of a cone with a given slant height. The volume equation is V = 1/3(pi)r^2h, and the constraint is l^2 = b^2 + h^2. To maximize the volume, the constraint can be rearranged to get r^2 = h^2-l^2, which can then be substituted into the volume equation to get V(h) only. Differentiating V(h) with respect to h and remembering that l is constant will allow for maximization.
  • #1
girlygirl93
5
0
Hello there :) I'm having tons of trouble figuring out how to finish this problem.
A cone is to be constructed having a given slant height of l>0 . Find the radius and height which give maximal volume.



I am unsure of which variables to keep in order for it to be maximized, and how to go about optimizing it.



This is how I was going about it: I think that the cross-section of the cone makes a right angled triangle, for which the equation would be l^2= b^2 + h^2, and in order to maximize the volume you must relate it to the volume equation V = 1/3(pi)r^2h, but I am having trouble putting it together, to be able to differentiate and then maximize.
 
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  • #2
ok so colume as a function of r & h is
V(r,h) = 1/3(pi)r^2h

but you also know (assuming b=r)
l^2=h^2+r^2

rearranging the contsrtaint gives
r^2 = h^2-l^2

and you can subsitute into you volume equation, to get V(h) only. Then you can differentiate w.r.t. h and maximise remembering that l is constant
 

Related to How to Optimize Cone Volume with Given Slant Height?

1. What is cone optimization in calculus?

Cone optimization in calculus is the process of finding the maximum or minimum value of a function that is defined on a cone-shaped region. This involves using techniques such as derivatives and optimization algorithms to find the optimal solution.

2. Why is optimizing cone important in science?

Optimizing cone is important in science because it allows us to find the most efficient and effective solutions to problems in various fields such as physics, engineering, and economics. By optimizing cone, we can improve processes, increase productivity, and minimize costs.

3. What are the key steps in optimizing cone using calculus?

The key steps in optimizing cone using calculus include:

  1. Defining the problem and determining the objective function
  2. Calculating the derivatives of the objective function
  3. Setting the derivative equal to zero and solving for the critical points
  4. Evaluating the critical points to determine if they are maximum or minimum values
  5. Interpreting and applying the results to the original problem

4. What are some real-life applications of optimizing cone?

Optimizing cone has many real-life applications, such as:

  • Maximizing the volume of a cone-shaped container while minimizing the surface area for cost-effective production
  • Minimizing the amount of material needed to construct a cone-shaped structure such as a cone-shaped roof or a cone-shaped water tower
  • Optimizing the angle of a cone-shaped antenna for maximum signal strength
  • Maximizing the efficiency of a cone-shaped wind turbine by optimizing its dimensions and angle

5. What are some common challenges in optimizing cone using calculus?

Some common challenges in optimizing cone using calculus include:

  • Identifying the correct objective function and determining the appropriate constraints
  • Solving for critical points and determining whether they are maximum or minimum values
  • Dealing with non-differentiable points or discontinuities in the function
  • Interpreting and applying the results in a real-life context

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