When you solve for d(profit)/d(price)=0 for price, you will probably get an equation you don't know how to solve algebraically, not even with the quadratic formula. What you should do in a situation like this is use a "solve" command or similar on your calculator to get a numerical estimate of the solution. If you don't own a calculator with the above capability, I recommend buying one, and using sites like wolframalpha.com in the meanwhile: http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=5*x^3%2Bx^2%2B8*sqrt%28x%29%3D%3D170 P.S. Homeworks 9 through 12 are due on the Tuesday after spring break. You will enjoy your break more if you start the homeworks early. (But also study for the test on March 3!)