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Minimize the sum of two positive numbers with this product.

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

TOPIC 01

Quadratic functions, equations and inequalities: mixed assessment

A mixed assessment: identify the method, justify it and revise your reasoning.

What you will be able to explain

  • Connect the chapter skills without relying on the order of the exercises.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Transfer#Your turn

Minimize the sum of two positive numbers with this product.

ab=144ab=144
  • Use the domain, units and sampling assumptions stated in the question.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Check nonnegativity, apply AM–GM and verify attainable equality.
Hint 2
With fixed product, AM–GM gives a lower sum bound.
Worked solution
  1. Check nonnegativity, apply AM–GM and verify attainable equality.

  2. Calculate or simplify this relation.

    a+b≥2ab=24;a=b=12a+b\ge2\sqrt{ab}=24;\quad a=b=12
  3. Give an equality pair to prove attainment.

The requested value is 24.

Checks and common pitfalls: Give an equality pair to prove attainment.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • Ask students to name the relevant condition before calculating.

Board plan

  • Compare valid methods and annotate their conditions.

Anticipated thinking

  • A correct final value may still hide a missing assumption.

Assessment checklist

  • Check the method, conditions, reasoning and interpretation separately.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗