Suppose that the cost of shipping 100 cars from each plant to each distribution center is given in the following matrix (in $1,000s):

TO F

Phoenix D avenport Columbia R

Flint 12 8 17 O

Fresno 7 14 21 M

Monterrey 18 22 31

a. Convert the problem to a balanced problem by adding an appropriate row or column and find the optimal solution using Solver.

b. Now find the optimal solution using Solver and inequality constraints.

c. Do the solutions in

(a) and

(b) match? Why or why not?

d. Suppose that the route between Monterrey and Columbia is no longer available due to a landslide on a key road in Mexico. Modify the model in

(b) and resolve to find the optimal solution. Has the objective value increased or decreased? Explain why.