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Subject: "Math proof that sphere has max volume to surface area"     Previous Topic | Next Topic
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Conferences The CTK Exchange College math Topic #747
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dscharpi1
guest
Jan-22-11, 10:39 AM (EST)
 
"Math proof that sphere has max volume to surface area"
 
   I am working with a physician friend on a problem (we're both in our 50's and our math is pretty rusty) - and was trying to find proof that the geometric shape with maximum volume to surface area is a sphere vs any other shape. This is pretty common knowledge - but what is the proof? Thanks


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alexbadmin
Charter Member
2725 posts
Jan-22-11, 11:23 AM (EST)
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1. "RE: Math proof that sphere has max volume to surface area"
In response to message #0
 
   Generally speaking, you can proceed by analogy to the 2d case:

https://www.cut-the-knot.org/do_you_know/isoperimetric.shtml

or

https://mathdl.maa.org/images/upload_library/22/Ford/blasjo526.pdf

However, the 3d case is much more involved. Intuitively, for the optimum body (if such exists), any plane that halves the area must halves the volume. The hard part is to prove from here that, for any plane, there is a parallel plane in which the body is symmetric. From here, one gets central symmetry as well. Summing up, sphere is the only possibility to support an extreme V²/S³ (Volume and Surface area).


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