12. Related rates

Related rates problems are applied calculus problems and in many cases they are physics problems. Generally, you are given a rate and another piece of information and are asked to find a different rate. The Pythagorean formula and trig functions are often essential to solve related rates problems thanks to the prevalence of right triangles.

Mr. K's Steps:

1. Draw picture

2. Write or identify relevant equations

3. Write all of the variables in the problem

4. Determine which variables change with respect, plug values that ARENT changing with respect to time into your equations

5. Determine which variable and rates of change were defined in the problem

6. Get the equation in terms of one variable (you many need a new equation)

7. Take the derivative with respect to t

8. Substitute in known values that DO change with respect to time

9. Solve for the value indicated in the problem

10. Use this value to solve the problem (provide units)

Practice Worksheet

For more, see here:

Khan Academy Quiz #1

Khan Academy Quiz #2

Khan Academy Quiz #3

Khan Academy Quiz #4