Mathematical Representation of Objective Function

As we discussed on objective function in the context of linear programming, but objective function can be non-linear as well.

  • Linear Objective Functions: In this type of objective function, both the constraints and objective functions are linear in nature. The exponents of the variables are 1.
  • Non-Linear Objective Functions: In this type of objective function, both the constraints and objective functions are linear in nature. The exponents of the variables are either 1 or greater than 1.

Applications of Objective Functions

Objective functions are important in real-life scenarios. For instance, these functions are used by businessmen. Businessmen use it to maximize their profit. Objective functions are also useful for Transportation problems. By setting up a function, one can analyze how much fuel consumption is taking place and how the user can accordingly cut the prices for the same. Objective functions are also useful in distance problems as well.

Objective Function

Objective Function is the objective of the Linear Programming Problem as the name suggests. In linear programming or linear optimization, we use various techniques and methods to find the optimal solution to the linear problem with some constraints. The technique can also include inequality constraints as well. The objective function in Linear Programming is to optimize to find the optimum solution for a given problem.

In this article, we will learn all about the Objective Function including its definition, types, how to formulate an objective function for any given problem, etc. We will also learn various representations of Objective Functions such as Linear Objective Functions or Non-linear objective functions. So, let’s start learning about this fundamental concept in Linear Programming i.e., “Objective Function”.

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What is Objective Function?

As the name suggests, the objective function basically sets the objective of the Problem. It focuses on decision-making based on constraints. It is a real-valued function that is either to be maximized or minimized depending upon the constraints. It is like a Profit or a Loss function. It is usually denoted by Z....

Formulating an Objective Function

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Common Types of Objective Functions

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Mathematical Representation of Objective Function

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Solved Problems on Objective Function

Problem 1: A person wants some belts and wallets. He has total savings of Rs 6000 and wishes to spend all his savings on purchasing belts and wallets so that he can sell it later. The value of the wallet is Rs 20 and the value of the belt is Rs 10. He wants to store them in a cupboard and the maximum capacity of the cupboard is 50 units. He expects a profit of Rs 2 on the belt and Rs 3 on the wallet. Find the constraints and the resulting objective function....

FAQs on Objective Function

Q1: What is the Objective Function in Linear Programming Problem?...