Graphical Intuition to Duality in Linear Programming

Prasun Bhatta Mishra

Prasun Bhatta Mishra

School of Management, KIIT University, India

Volume 12: 2018, pp. 123-132; ABSTRACT

Linear Programming has found widespread application as a mathematical optimization technique for solving real world problems. Duality theory is intrinsic to the theory of Linear Programming because of many uses: faster computational alternatives, a better understanding of sensitivity analysis etc. Most introductory textbooks in Operations Research/Management Sciences contain a chapter(s) on Duality which includes the rules for writing the dual and an economic interpretation of the dual LP. The rules for writing the dual LP are described rather mechanically. Although an economic interpretation is offered later, it is inadequate for certain cases. The author here provides a graphical explanation of the rules for writing the dual LP. This shall supplement the preexisting content in textbooks for a more comprehensive understanding of the dual LP.

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