Optimization
Human activity is subject to constraints of all kinds: material, human, financial, spatial, temporal… This limitation of resources explains why a large part of "applied mathematics" consists of optimizing a criterion under certain constraints. This targeted dossier proposes to explore a lesser-known and non-technical facet of optimization: yes, without sophisticated analytical machinery, with only a good understanding of simple algebraic or geometric concepts, one can already obtain astonishing results!
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No derivatives required: optimization for everyone!
Optimization and differentiation are linked—but in both algebra and geometry, derivatives can sometimes be avoided. A few elementary algebraic examples will show us that quadratics are often subtler than they look…
Other optimizations: PERT and beyond | Tangente
Optimization techniques are sometimes hidden in other subjects. Here are a few examples
The geometer's art
Geometry has its secrets: it often allows us to solve extremum problems without resorting to analysis or algebra. It also gives us an opportunity to revisit some classic results in triangle geometry.
Optimization problems in mountainous terrain
Geometrically, optimizing a function of two variables means locating special points on its graph: the "highest" and "lowest" points. This search can be illustrated by exploring a… mountain landscape.