OPTIMIZATION MODELING AND ALGORITHMS

CHE 06-462, Spring 2016

Homework #1
Due 1:30 PM, Tuesday, January 26, 2016 in classroom
[each of the 4 exercises counts for 5 points, for a maximum possible of 20 points]
[statement spans 2 pages]
1. The Pennsylvania Turnpike is going to be equipped with traffic control cameras that are to be
spaced equally along its length. The maximum error in estimating traffic volume, which occurs
halfway between any two consecutive cameras, can be expressed as ()2, where is the total
length of the highway, and is the total number of installed cameras. Each camera costs USD,
and the authorities want to reduce the maximum error as much as possible, given their total
project budget of USD. Identify the (a) decisions, (b) input parameters (data), (c) objective and
(d) constraints associated with this design project.
2.

(a) What does it mean for a solution to be a local maximum?

(b) What does it mean for a solution to be a global maximum?

For each of the two questions above, provide both (i) a formal definition written in mathematical
terms as well as (ii) a narrative definition that explains the formal one in very precise wording.

3. Consider the following optimization model:

1 ,2

. .

1 + 2

1 + 2 7
1 0
1 , 2

Identify a set of parameter values (, ) (0, 0) such that the above model
(a) has unique optimal solution.
(b) has multiple optimal solutions.
(c) has no optimal solution (by virtue of being unbounded).

In each of the three cases above, show the validity of your answer graphically by sketching the
feasible space and a few objective contours for your chosen and values.
4. Formulate an optimization model whose optimal solution corresponds to the most stable
configuration (i.e., xyz-coordinates) of a triatomic molecule with molecular formula A2B. Assume
that the energetics are governed by pair-wise Lennard-Jones interactions.
Note: Introduce legible symbols for all parameters and variables in your model, and clearly state
their definition. Also clearly state the physical interpretation of the objective and each constraint
in your model.
Hint: You may use symmetry arguments to simplify your problem (and resulting model).