Modelling with Differentiation (Optimisation) (Edexcel IAL Maths)

Modelling with Differentiation inc. Optimisation

Spec point — 7.1

Modelling with differentiation (optimisation)

How do I find the maximum or minimum values of models?

• Derivatives can be calculated for any variables – not just y and x
• In every case the derivative is a formula giving the rate of change of one variable with respect to the other variable

• Differentiation can be used to find maximum and minimum points of a function (see Stationary Points)
• Therefore it can be used to solve maximisation and minimisation problems in modelling questions

Exam Hint Exam questions on this topic will often be divided into two parts:

• First a 'Show that...' part where you derive a given formula from the information in the question
• And then a 'Find...' part where you use differentiation to answer a question about the formula

Even if you can't answer the first part you can still use the formula to answer the second part.

Worked Example