Chapter 2: Problem 68
An aquarium of height 1.5 feet is to have a volume of \(6 \mathrm{ft}^{3}\). Let \(x\) denote the length of the base and \(y\) the width (see the figure). (a) Express \(y\) as a function of \(x .\) (b) Express the total number \(S\) of square feet of glass needed as a function of \(x .\) (PICTURE CANNOT COPY)
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understanding the Volume Formula
Solve for y in Terms of x
Determine Total Surface Area S
Express Each Component of Surface Area
Combine Areas for Total Surface Area S
Final Solution
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Surface Area Calculation
To find the total surface area, consider:
- **The base area:** This is straightforward when you know the length and width. It's simply the product of these dimensions, here determined by the function: \( A_{base} = x \times y \).
- **The side areas:** The aquarium also has four sides. Each pair of opposite sides is calculated by recognizing them as rectangles. Two longer sides have dimensions \( x \text{ and } h \), while the two shorter ones use \( y \text{ and } h \).
Functions and Graphs
The initial equation derived from the volume, \( V = x \cdot y \cdot h \), can be simplified to express \( y \) as a function of \( x \): \[ y(x) = \frac{4}{x} \]. This equation can be graphed, providing a visual way to see how changes in \( x \) affect \( y \).
With a graph:
- The function \( y(x) = \frac{4}{x} \) generally shows an inverse relationship. As \( x \) increases, \( y \) decreases, demonstrating how the two dimensions adjust to maintain a constant volume.
- The vertical asymptote suggests that \( y \) becomes undefined (tends toward infinity) as \( x \) approaches zero, naturally reflecting the impossibility of a length with no value.
- Real-world interpretations become clearer, such as understanding feasible dimensions for different base measurements.
Mathematical Modeling
In this exercise:
- The **Volume of the aquarium** is mathematically represented: \( V = x \cdot y \cdot h \). This model helps us relate the base dimensions (\( x \) and \( y \)) with the given height to ensure the desired volume is achieved.
- The **Surface area formula**: \( S(x) = 12 + \frac{12}{x} \), which incorporates the base and side areas. This function is essential for understanding material requirements, correlating directly with construction costs.
- By using these models, one can analyze how different dimensions impact the design and construction, facilitating efficient planning and material usage.