Solve the problem.
-A rain gutter is made from sheets of aluminum that are 18 inches wide by turning up the edges to form right angles. Determine the depth of the gutter that will maximize its cross-sectional area and allow the greatest amount of water to flow.
A) 4.5 inches
B) 4 inches
C) 5 inches
D) 5.5 inches

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The depth that maximizes the cross-sectional area of the gutter is found by dividing the width of the aluminum sheet by 4, which is 18 inches / 4 = 4.5 inches. This is because the optimal shape for the gutter is when the base is twice as long as the height, maximizing the cross-sectional area for a given perimeter.

Solve the Problem. -A Rain Gutter Is Made from Sheets of Aluminum That