Objective function of a linear programming problem is

The correct option is "function to be obtimized".

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding Linear Programming:
Linear Programming (LP) is a mathematical optimization technique used to find the best possible outcome (such as maximizing profit or minimizing cost) in a given mathematical model whose requirements are represented by linear relationships.

2. Components of a Linear Programming Problem (LPP):
An LPP typically consists of:
• Decision Variables: The quantities to be determined.
• Objective Function: A linear function representing the goal of the problem, which needs to be maximized or minimized (optimized). For example, it is often represented as:

$$Z=ax+by$$

where $Z$ is the value to be optimized, $x$ and $y$ are decision variables, and $a$ and $b$ are constants.
• Constraints: A set of linear inequalities or equations that restrict the values of the decision variables based on resource limitations.

3. Conclusion:
Since the primary goal of the objective function is to be maximized (e.g., maximizing profit, efficiency) or minimized (e.g., minimizing cost, time, waste), it is defined as the function to be optimized.