12.1 Introduction
Linear Programming (L.P.) is a mathematical technique to optimize a linear objective function subject to linear constraints.
- Widely used in business, economics, engineering, and operations research
- Helps in maximizing profit or minimizing cost
- Solutions are generally obtained using graphical methods or simplex method
12.2 Linear Programming Problem and Its Mathematical Formulation
A Linear Programming Problem (LPP) consists of:
- Objective Function – The function to maximize or minimize:
Z=ax+by
- Example: Maximize profit or minimize cost
- Constraints – Linear inequalities that restrict the solution:
⎩⎨⎧x+y≤102x+y≤15x≥0,y≥0
- Non-Negativity Conditions – Variables must be greater than or equal to zero:
x≥0,y≥0
Steps to Formulate LPP
- Define variables clearly
- Formulate objective function in terms of variables
- Write constraints as linear inequalities
- Include non-negativity conditions
🔹 Key Notes
- LPP is widely applicable in production planning, transportation, resource allocation, and diet problems
- The solution lies at the vertices (corner points) of the feasible region
- Graphical method is used for two-variable LPPs
- For higher dimensions, simplex method is applied
✅ Key Points to Remember
- LPP involves objective function + constraints + non-negativity conditions
- Feasible solutions satisfy all constraints simultaneously
- Optimization occurs at corner points of feasible region
- Linear programming is a powerful tool in management and economics