Class CBSE Class 12 Mathematics Applications of Derivatives Q #1816
COMPETENCY BASED
APPLY
5 Marks 2026 AISSCE(Board Exam) LA
A rectangle of perimeter 36 cm is revolved around one of its sides to sweep out a cylinder of maximum volume. Find the dimensions of the rectangle.

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Detailed Solution

Step 1: Define Variables and Constraints

Let the sides of the rectangle be $x$ and $y$. The perimeter is given as 36 cm. Thus, $2(x + y) = 36$, which simplifies to $x + y = 18$, or $y = 18 - x$.

Step 2: Formulate the Volume Function

When the rectangle is revolved around side $x$, the side $x$ becomes the height ($h$) of the cylinder and side $y$ becomes the radius ($r$). The volume $V$ of the cylinder is given by: $$V = \pi r^2 h = \pi y^2 x$$ Substituting $y = 18 - x$: $$V(x) = \pi (18 - x)^2 x = \pi (324x - 36x^2 + x^3)$$

Step 3: Find Critical Points

To maximize volume, differentiate $V$ with respect to $x$: $$\frac{dV}{dx} = \pi (324 - 72x + 3x^2)$$ Set $\frac{dV}{dx} = 0$: $$3(x^2 - 24x + 108) = 0$$ $$3(x - 6)(x - 18) = 0$$ The critical points are $x = 6$ and $x = 18$. Since $x = 18$ would result in $y = 0$ (no volume), we take $x = 6$.

Step 4: Verify Maximum and Determine Dimensions

Using the second derivative test: $$\frac{d^2V}{dx^2} = \pi (-72 + 6x)$$ At $x = 6$, $\frac{d^2V}{dx^2} = \pi (-72 + 36) = -36\pi < 0$. Thus, $x = 6$ is a point of local maxima. If $x = 6$, then $y = 18 - 6 = 12$.

Final Answer: The dimensions of the rectangle are 6 cm and 12 cm.

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Pedagogical Audit
Bloom's Analysis: This is an APPLY question because the student must translate a geometric word problem into a mathematical model (function) and apply calculus optimization techniques.
Knowledge Dimension: PROCEDURAL
Justification: The problem requires a specific sequence of steps: constraint identification, substitution, differentiation, and optimization testing.
Syllabus Audit: In the context of CBSE Class 12, this is classified as COMPETENCY. This question tests the application of the 'Application of Derivatives' chapter, specifically 'Maxima and Minima', which is a core competency requirement for board examinations.