These are just some common, simple examples. We could be optimizing volume, area, distance, length, and many other quantities. There are many different types of optimization problems. Absolute extrema can be within the function or they can be at the ends of the interval we are searching for the extrema on. Absolute extrema are the overall maximum values or the overall minimum values.

Local extrema are the peaks and troughs in an equation. We can have absolute extrema and local extrema. Extrema are the maximum or minimum values. Let’s get started.įirst, what is optimization? Optimization is when we are looking for the extrema of a function. Together, we will beat all of your fears and confusion. Reading this article will give you all the tools you need to solve optimization problems, including some examples that I will walk you through. Many AP® Calculus students struggle with optimization problems because they require a bit more critical thinking than a normal problem. One of the most challenging aspects of calculus is optimization.

Optimization calculus khan academy