# Math Help - Calculus optimization problem?

1. ## Calculus optimization problem?

The illumination from a bulb varies directly as the intensity of the light and Intensity varies inversely as the square of the distance from the source. Two bulbs are placed 54 feet apart. The intensity, Ia, of bulb A is 64cd, and the intensity, Ib, of bulb B is 125cd. At how many feet from bulb A along the line between the two bulbs is the total illumination the least?

I have no idea how to start this problem...I thought about using optimization but I'm not sure where to start

2. ## Re: Calculus optimization problem?

I would orient my coordinate axis $x$ such that bulb A is at the origin 0 and bulb B is at 54, and let the observer be at $0. The intensity $I$ of the light received by the observer is then the sum of the light from the two bulbs, given by:

$I(x)=\frac{64}{x^2}+\frac{125}{(54-x)^2}$

Can you finish?

3. ## Re: Calculus optimization problem?

would i take the derivative of that function?

4. ## Re: Calculus optimization problem?

Yes, you would equate the derivative to zero and solve for x to find the critical value. Then use one of the tests you have been taught (I recommend the second derivative test) to demonstrate you have a minimum.