A single-objective optimization problem has one objective function to maximize or minimize. In ticket pricing, profit is the sole objective: a quadratic profit function produces an optimal ticket price of $155 and net profit of $130,500. section 1.3.2
The distinction is the number of objectives. Designing an electric vehicle with both acceleration time and EPA driving range creates a multi-objective problem, especially when the objectives conflict. section 1.3.2
Political districting
A genetic algorithm assigns neighborhoods to districts while minimizing overpopulated and underpopulated districts. The model uses one objective, three constraints, integer decision variables, population data, an adjacency matrix, and an allowable population margin. Ideally, the objective reaches zero. section 8.8
