Quantitative Analysis for Management, 13/e

Module 6 Calculus-Based Optimization

Learning Objectives

After completing this module, students will be able to:

1. M6.1 Find the slope of a straight line.

2. M6.2 Find the slope of a curve at any point.

3. M6.3 Find derivatives for several common types of functions.

4. M6.4 Find the maximum and minimum points on curves.

5. M6.5 Use derivatives to maximize total revenue and other functions.

Although most of the quantitative techniques presented in this book are based on algebra, there are many situations in which calculus and derivatives are helpful in finding the best solution to a business problem. In this module, we begin by reviewing the slope of a line, as this is important in understanding the derivative of a function. Then we explain what a ...