Final answer:
Linear programming allows a transportation company to optimize delivery routes by considering costs and constraints, improving efficiency. Changes in gasoline prices can influence the cost-effectiveness of routes, allowing for expansion. Proximity to less congested freeways and alternative transportation access can further reduce costs and increase profits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Linear programming can be a powerful tool for a transportation company looking to optimize delivery routes and improve efficiency. By using linear programming, the company can systematically evaluate various route options, weigh the associated costs such as gasoline, and identify the most efficient routes to minimize costs and maximize delivery speed. This optimization considers factors like fuel prices, delivery deadlines, and vehicle capacity constraints.
For instance, if gasoline prices decrease, the transportation company may find that previously unprofitable routes become viable, allowing the company to expand its delivery area and increase its supply of services. Moreover, choosing locations near less congested freeways or accessing alternative transport methods such as rail or water also plays a critical role in reducing transport costs and improving overall efficiency, directly influencing the company's profitability.