Math Problem Statement

A toy rocket is shot from a platform 18 feet above the ground. The rocket flies into the air, reaches a maximum height of 37 feet, then falls to the ground. The graph of H(t) below shows the height of this rocket (in feet) t seconds after launch.

A toy rocket is shot from a platform 18 feet above the ground. The rocket flies into the air, reaches a maximum height of 37 feet, then falls to the ground. The graph of H(t) below shows the height of this rocket (in feet) t seconds after launch.

Solution

The graph represents the height H(t)H(t) of the toy rocket as a function of time tt seconds. Let’s analyze and interpret the key aspects of the graph:

  1. Initial Height: The rocket starts at a height of 18 feet above the ground (from the platform).
  2. Maximum Height: The rocket reaches its peak height of 37 feet at approximately t=20t = 20 seconds.
  3. Duration of Flight: The rocket hits the ground at t=60t = 60 seconds.
  4. Symmetry of Motion: The parabolic path suggests that the upward and downward motion is symmetrical about t=20t = 20 seconds, the time at which the rocket reaches its maximum height.

Would you like me to:

  1. Provide the equation of the parabola H(t)H(t)?
  2. Determine the total time in the air?
  3. Analyze the average speed during the ascent or descent?
  4. Compute the rocket's velocity at a given time?
  5. Provide a step-by-step explanation of solving similar problems?

Tip: Parabolic motion can often be modeled by a quadratic equation of the form H(t)=at2+bt+cH(t) = -at^2 + bt + c, where a,b,a, b, and cc are constants that define the trajectory. Let me know if you'd like to derive it!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Graph Interpretation
Projectile Motion

Formulas

General quadratic equation: H(t) = -at^2 + bt + c

Theorems

Properties of parabolas
Symmetry of quadratic functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10