1
algebra

A nutritionist wants to mix two foods. Food A has 2g protein, 4g carbs. Food B has 3g protein, 2g carbs. Goal: At least 12g protein, at least 16g carbs. Minimize Calories (A: 50, B: 40). Which objective function and constraints apply?

A

Min C=50A+40BC = 50A + 40B; 2A+3B12,4A+2B16,A,B02A + 3B \geq 12, 4A + 2B \geq 16, A,B \geq 0

B

Min C=50A+40BC = 50A + 40B; 2A+3B12,4A+2B16,A,B02A + 3B \leq 12, 4A + 2B \leq 16, A,B \geq 0

C

Max C=50A+40BC = 50A + 40B; 2A+3B12,4A+2B16,A,B02A + 3B \geq 12, 4A + 2B \geq 16, A,B \geq 0

D

Min C=2A+3BC = 2A + 3B; 50A+40B12,A,B050A + 40B \geq 12, A,B \geq 0

Correct Answer: A

Choice A is the correct answer. Match goals to functions and constraints.

  1. Objective: Minimize Calories Min C=50A+40B\rightarrow \text{Min } C = 50A + 40B
  2. Protein: 2A+3B122A + 3B \geq 12 (At least 12)
  3. Carbs: 4A+2B164A + 2B \geq 16 (At least 16)
  4. Non-negativity: A,B0A, B \geq 0

?�� Strategic Tip: "At least" means \geq. Minimize means finding the lowest value of the objective function.

Choice B is incorrect because\leq sets a maximum limit, not a minimum requirement. Choice C is incorrect because it maximizes calories. Choice D is incorrect because it swaps the objective function with a constraint.