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Mathematics — Class 12 — L37: Linear Programming

NIOS Code 311 · Module 10 · Linear Programming and Mathematical Reasoning

Notes extracted from NIOS Mathematics Course (311), Lesson 37 — Linear Programming (ilovepdf_merged (6).pdf). Content covers sections 37.1–37.x.
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Overview — Linear Programming (L37)

Linear programming optimises a linear objective under linear inequality constraints. In two variables, solve by graphing the feasible region and evaluating the objective at corner points.

Max/Min z = c₁x + c₂y subject to aᵢx + bᵢy ≤ or ≥ dᵢ, x≥0, y≥0
Corner-point theorem
feasible constraints
Feasible region for an LPP (sketch)

37.1 Steps

  1. Write objective and constraints mathematically.
  2. Graph each inequality; shade the feasible polygon (or unbounded region carefully).
  3. Find vertices (solve boundary equations pairwise).
  4. Evaluate z at each vertex; pick optimal as required.

37.2 Types of solutions

Unique optimum at a vertex; alternate optima along an edge; unbounded feasible region may yield unbounded objective; infeasible if constraints contradict.

Non-negativity: x≥0, y≥0 are almost always part of NIOS LP models.

MCQ Quiz — L37 Linear Programming

0 / 10 correct

Flashcards — L37

1 / 15

Golden Rules — L37 Linear Programming

Most exam-important points from this chapter:

Know the definitions of L37

Start every answer with the key definition or standard form from Linear Programming.

Write the formula first

Copy the formula, then substitute values; never jump to the number alone.

Watch conditions

Check domain, quadrant, non-zero denominators, and applicability of the theorem.

Master result 1

Memorise and apply: type ‘B’ toys subject to the limitation on the investment.

Master result 2

Memorise and apply: The above problem was easy to handle because the choice was limited to two types, and the

Objective z=ax+by
Constraints
Feasible region
Corner point method
Max/min at vertex
Bounded region

1. Formulas & Definitions

Full Ch 37 — Linear Programming study guide: definitions, derivations, why each formula works, history, deep understanding, pencil diagrams, step-by-step use, and 4-level solved examples.

Corner point theorem

Definition: For LPP with linear objective over a polygonal feasible region, optimum occurs at a vertex.

Derivation

Level lines of z=ax+by last touch the polygon at a corner (or whole edge if parallel).

Variables

Evaluate z at each vertex

Why it works

Linearity prevents interior local optima.

Historical context

Dantzig’s simplex builds on vertex theory; school uses corner method.

Deep understanding

If unbounded region, max may not exist.

2. Diagrams & Visuals

Corner point theorem Feasible polygon z level lines Last touch = vertex

Pencil sketch · labelled · step-by-step breakdown below

  1. Graph inequalities
  2. Find vertices
  3. Compute z at each
  4. Pick max/min required

3. Solved Examples

Basic

Q: Vertices (0,0),(4,0),(0,2); z=x+y max

Solution: Max 4 at (4,0)

Answer: 4

Intermediate

Q: z=2x+5y at (0,0),(4,0),(3,3),(0,2)

Solution: Values 0,8,21,10 → max 21

Answer: 21 at (3,3)

Advanced

Q: If z parallel to a side

Solution: Whole edge optimal

Answer: Any point on that edge

Exam

Q: Where is optimum?

Solution: At a corner of feasible region

Answer: A vertex

Feasible region

Definition: Set of (x,y) satisfying all constraints including x≥0,y≥0 if required.

Derivation

Intersection of half-planes.

Variables

Linear inequalities

Why it works

Only feasible points are allowed decisions.

Historical context

Graphical LPP foundation.

Deep understanding

Empty feasible region → no solution.

2. Diagrams & Visuals

Feasible region Half-planes meet Shade feasible Find corners

Pencil sketch · labelled · step-by-step breakdown below

  1. Draw each inequality
  2. Shade intersection
  3. Label corners
  4. Confirm a test point

3. Solved Examples

Basic

Q: x≥0,y≥0,x+y≤1

Solution: Triangle vertices (0,0),(1,0),(0,1)

Answer: Triangle

Intermediate

Q: Is (2,2) feasible for x+y≤5,x≤3?

Solution: Yes

Answer: Yes

Advanced

Q: Unbounded: x≥0,y≥0,x+y≥1

Solution: Region goes to infinity

Answer: Unbounded

Exam

Q: Feasible region means?

Solution: All constraints true

Answer: Intersection of constraints

Objective z = ax + by

Definition: Linear function to maximise or minimise.

Derivation

Gradient <a,b> shows direction of fastest increase.

Variables

a,b coefficients (profit etc.)

Why it works

Level curves are parallel lines ax+by=constant.

Historical context

Core of LPP modelling.

Deep understanding

Formulate from word problem carefully.

2. Diagrams & Visuals

Objective z = ax + by z=ax+by Level lines Gradient <a,b>

Pencil sketch · labelled · step-by-step breakdown below

  1. Define decision variables
  2. Write z
  3. List constraints
  4. Solve graphically

3. Solved Examples

Basic

Q: Max 3x+2y pens/pencils style

Solution: Form LPP then corners

Answer: Use corner method

Intermediate

Q: Min z=x+y on x≥1,y≥1,x+y≥3

Solution: Check vertices

Answer: Evaluate

Advanced

Q: If feasible unbounded and z→∞

Solution: No maximum

Answer: Unbounded optimum

Exam

Q: LPP needs?

Solution: Linear objective + linear constraints

Answer: Linear z and inequalities

5. Special Features & Extras

Complete study guide — exam tips, common mistakes, memory aids, and quick reference.

Exam Tips & Tricks

  • Always non-negativity if quantities.
  • Label all corner coordinates clearly.
  • If edge optimal, state any point on edge.

Common Student Mistakes

  • Testing an interior point only
  • Wrong inequality shade
  • Forgetting a constraint

Memory Aids & Mnemonics

Optimum at a corner (unless whole edge).
Feasible = all inequalities true.

Which Formula When?

  • Word problem → variables, z, constraints
  • Solve → graph + corners
  • Unbounded check z→±∞

Quick reference box

• Corner method · feasible region · z=ax+by

PYQ — Previous Year Questions

English questions from NIOS Mathematics (311) public / sample papers (Sample 2024, Apr 2024, Oct 2024, Apr 2025; board-style where scanned papers had no extractable text). Mapped exclusively to this chapter — no cross-chapter duplicates. Use Model Answer for the marking key and Explanation for working.

L37 — Linear Programming

4 question(s) · Sources: Board-style corner method, Board-style feasible point, Board-style min, Board-style model

PYQ1. A dealer sells pens at ₹3 profit and pencils at ₹2 profit. Constraints: pens ≤ 100, pencils ≤ 200, pens+pencils ≤ 250, non-negative. Formulate the LPP to maximise profit (x=pens, y=pencils).

2 mark(s) · SA · Board-style model

Model Answer

1)  Max z=3x+2y s.t. x≤100, y≤200, x+y≤250, x≥0, y≥0

Explanation

1)  Objective uses profit coefficients

2)  stock limits become linear inequalities with non-negativity.

PYQ2. Feasible vertices are (0,0), (4,0), (3,3), (0,2). Maximise z=2x+5y.

2 mark(s) · SA · Board-style corner method

Model Answer

1)  Maximum z=21 at (3,3)

Explanation

1)  z values: 0, 8, 21,

2)  1

0. Largest is 21 at (3,3).

PYQ3. Is (2,2) feasible for x≥0, y≥0, x+y≤5, x≤3?

1 mark(s) · SA · Board-style feasible point

Model Answer

1)  Yes

Explanation

1)  All inequalities hold: 2+2=4≤5 and 2≤3.

PYQ4. Using the same vertices as Q2, minimise z=2x+5y.

1 mark(s) · SA · Board-style min

Model Answer

1)  Minimum z=0 at (0,0)

Explanation

1)  Smallest among 0,8,21,10 is 0.

Problem Solving — L37 Linear Programming

10 English exam-style problems for this chapter (NIOS Mathematics 311). Each question states the formula, gives full step-by-step working with the final answer, plus formal/easy explanations. English only.

Question 1 of 10Model

A shop sells pens at ₹3 profit and pencils at ₹2. Constraints: pens≤100, pencils≤200, pens+pencils≤250, non-negative. Write the LPP to maximise profit (x=pens, y=pencils).

Objective + constraints

1)  Max z=3x+2y.

2)  Subject to x≤100, y≤200, x+y≤250, x≥0, y≥0.

Answer:  Max z=3x+2y; x≤100, y≤200, x+y≤250, x,y≥0

Formula used

Objective + constraints

Textbook formal language

Standard modelling of a two-variable LPP.

Easy language (same calculation)

Profit coefficients become objective; stock limits become inequalities.

Why this formula

Non-negativity always for counts.

Exam tip

Do not maximise x+y unless that is profit.

Common mistakes

  • Missing a constraint
  • z=x+y
Question 2 of 10Corner

Feasible vertices of a region are (0,0),(4,0),(3,3),(0,2). Maximise z=2x+5y.

Evaluate z at vertices

1)  z(0,0)=0; z(4,0)=8; z(3,3)=6+15=21; z(0,2)=10.

2)  Maximum 21 at (3,3).

Answer:  Maximum z=21 at (3,3)

Formula used

Evaluate z at vertices

Textbook formal language

Corner-point theorem for linear objectives over polygons.

Easy language (same calculation)

Compute z at each corner; pick largest.

Why this formula

Minimum would be 0 here.

Exam tip

List all vertices first.

Common mistakes

  • Max at (4,0)
  • z=15
Question 3 of 10Feasible

Is (2,2) feasible for x≥0,y≥0,x+y≤5, x≤3?

Intersection of half-planes

1)  2≥0,2≥0,2+2=4≤5,2≤3 all true ⇒ feasible.

Answer:  Yes, feasible

Formula used

Intersection of half-planes

Textbook formal language

A point is feasible if it satisfies every constraint.

Easy language (same calculation)

Check each inequality.

Why this formula

Interior points can be feasible even if not optimal.

Exam tip

One failed inequality is enough to reject.

Common mistakes

  • No
  • Only checking x+y
Question 4 of 10Binding

The feasible vertices include (0,2) with constraint y≤2. Is y≤2 binding at (0,2)?

Equality holds at the point

1)  At (0,2), y=2, so y≤2 holds as equality.

2)  Therefore the constraint is binding at (0,2).

Answer:  Yes — binding (y=2)

Formula used

Equality holds at the point

Textbook formal language

A inequality constraint is binding at a point when it holds with equality.

Easy language (same calculation)

The point sits on the boundary line y=2.

Why this formula

If y were 1, the constraint would be non-binding (slack).

Exam tip

Binding ⇔ on the boundary of that inequality.

Common mistakes

  • Never binding at vertices
  • Only x≥0 can bind
Question 5 of 10Unbounded

If feasible region is x≥0,y≥0,x+y≥1 (unbounded) and z=x+y, is max z finite?

Region unbounded

1)  Along the ray x=t,y=0 for t≥1, z=t→∞.

2)  Maximum is unbounded (no finite max).

Answer:  No finite maximum (unbounded)

Formula used

Region unbounded

Textbook formal language

Linear objective may be unbounded on unbounded regions.

Easy language (same calculation)

You can go to infinity with z growing.

Why this formula

Minimising z here has minimum 1 on x+y=1.

Exam tip

Graphical sense: open direction of increase.

Common mistakes

  • Max=1
  • Max=0
Question 6 of 10Min

Using vertices (0,0),(4,0),(3,3),(0,2), minimise z=2x+5y.

Same corners

1)  Values 0,8,21,10 ⇒ minimum 0 at (0,0).

Answer:  Minimum z=0 at (0,0)

Formula used

Same corners

Textbook formal language

Same evaluation as maximisation; pick smallest.

Easy language (same calculation)

Zero at origin.

Why this formula

If origin not feasible, min is at another vertex.

Exam tip

Do not pick max by mistake.

Common mistakes

  • Min 8
  • Min 10
Question 7 of 10Formulate

A factory makes product X for ₹5 profit and Y for ₹4. Constraints: x≥0, y≥0, x+y≤10. Write the LPP to maximise profit.

Objective + inequalities

1)  Maximise z = 5x + 4y.

2)  Subject to x + y ≤ 10, x ≥ 0, y ≥ 0.

Answer:  Max z=5x+4y s.t. x+y≤10, x≥0, y≥0

Formula used

Objective + inequalities

Textbook formal language

Linear objective with linear constraints.

Easy language (same calculation)

Non-negativity for quantities.

Why this formula

Feasible region is a right triangle.

Exam tip

Check each algebraic step carefully.

Common mistakes

  • Min instead of max
  • Forgetting x,y≥0
Question 8 of 10Corners

Maximise z=x+2y on vertices (0,0), (4,0), (0,3). Which point is optimal?

Evaluate z at vertices

1)  z(0,0)=0; z(4,0)=4; z(0,3)=6.

2)  Maximum is 6 at (0,3).

Answer:  Maximum at (0, 3); z=6

Formula used

Evaluate z at vertices

Textbook formal language

Corner point theorem for linear programmes.

Easy language (same calculation)

Compare three values only.

Why this formula

Optimum at a vertex of the feasible polygon.

Exam tip

Check each algebraic step carefully.

Common mistakes

  • (4,0)
  • Interior point
Question 9 of 10Feasible

Is (2, 2) feasible for x≥0, y≥0, x+y≤5, x≤3?

All inequalities true

1)  2≥0, 2≥0, 2+2=4≤5, 2≤3 — all hold.

2)  Yes, feasible.

Answer:  Yes

Formula used

All inequalities true

Textbook formal language

A point is feasible if it satisfies every constraint.

Easy language (same calculation)

Check each inequality.

Why this formula

On the boundary is still feasible for ≤.

Exam tip

Check each algebraic step carefully.

Common mistakes

  • No
  • Only if x+y=5
Question 10 of 10Unbounded

For max z=x on x≥0, y≥0 (no other constraints), does a finite maximum exist?

No finite max

1)  x can increase without bound.

2)  No finite maximum (unbounded feasible region in the objective direction).

Answer:  No finite maximum

Formula used

No finite max

Textbook formal language

Unbounded region can make linear objectives unbounded.

Easy language (same calculation)

Need enough constraints to close the region.

Why this formula

Minimum would be 0 at x=0.

Exam tip

Check each algebraic step carefully.

Common mistakes

  • Max=0
  • Max=1