Modelling a small internet cafe charging policy
M. A. M. Lynch · Teaching Mathematics and its Applications An International Journal of the IMA · 2003
In this paper we use a continuous time Markov chain to model a simple optimisation problem with stochastic elements. The prerequisites are a knowledge of linear constant coefficient systems and some elementary probability—including the negative exponential distribution, which is briefly reviewed. The problem addressed has wide appeal and has the advantage of being based on modelling with differential equations. It offers an alternative to the classic mechanics and population models. The problem has easy generalizations with which to create variations. Special consideration is given to looking at some of the assumptions of the model and questioning the model solution.