Class 12 Maths Linear Programming Notes

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:

  1. Objective Function – The function to maximize or minimize:

Z=ax+byZ = ax + byZ=ax+by

  • Example: Maximize profit or minimize cost
  1. Constraints – Linear inequalities that restrict the solution:

{x+y102x+y15x0,y0\begin{cases} x + y \le 10 \\ 2x + y \le 15 \\ x \ge 0, y \ge 0 \end{cases}⎩⎨⎧​x+y≤102x+y≤15x≥0,y≥0​

  1. Non-Negativity Conditions – Variables must be greater than or equal to zero:

x0,y0x \ge 0, \, y \ge 0x≥0,y≥0

Steps to Formulate LPP

  1. Define variables clearly
  2. Formulate objective function in terms of variables
  3. Write constraints as linear inequalities
  4. 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