# Thread: Finding maximum percentage error

1. ## Finding maximum percentage error

One formula for the volume of a cone is V = (k^2 * h^3)/3, where k depends on the cones steepness. Find the maximum percentage error in calculating V from this formula, if the maximum percentage error for h is 5%.

I've got no idea how to start this one so all help is appreciated!

2. Originally Posted by Alice96
One formula for the volume of a cone is V = (k^2 * h^3)/3, where k depends on the cones steepness. Find the maximum percentage error in calculating V from this formula, if the maximum percentage error for h is 5%.

I've got no idea how to start this one so all help is appreciated!
I think you want to use the total differential method:

$\displaystyle \Delta V=V_k \Delta k +V_h \Delta h$ , where V_k is the partial derivative of V with respect to k, and delta k is the error associated with k. I can't quite see how to get to the percentage error though...

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### how to find the maximum percentage error

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