Math Problem Statement

A pyrotechnician plans for two fireworks to explode together at the same height in the air. They travel at speeds shown below. Firework B is launched 0.25 s before Firework A. How many seconds after Firework B launches will both fireworks explode?

Solution

The problem describes a scenario where two fireworks, A and B, are launched at different times and speeds, and we need to determine when both fireworks will explode at the same height in the air. Here’s a structured approach to solving it:

  1. Define Variables and Equations:

    • Let tt represent the time after Firework B's launch when both fireworks explode.
    • Since Firework B launches 0.25 seconds before Firework A, Firework A will have been in the air for t0.25t - 0.25 seconds when both explode.
  2. Assume the Speeds:

    • The question references speeds "shown below," which isn't visible in the image provided. Generally, if we let vAv_A be the speed of Firework A and vBv_B the speed of Firework B, we can set up equations based on these values.
  3. Set up the Height Equations:

    • The height HH reached by each firework can be given as H=vtH = v \cdot t, where tt is the time in the air, and vv is the speed.
    • Therefore, we have:
      • Height of Firework A = vA(t0.25)v_A \cdot (t - 0.25)
      • Height of Firework B = vBtv_B \cdot t
  4. Equate the Heights:

    • Since both explode at the same height, we set the heights equal to each other: vA(t0.25)=vBtv_A \cdot (t - 0.25) = v_B \cdot t
  5. Solve for tt:

    • Rearranging this equation will yield a solution for tt, but we need the values of vAv_A and vBv_B to proceed.

Could you provide the specific speeds of Fireworks A and B? With these values, I can solve the equation for the exact time tt.


Would you like more details on the process or have any questions? Here are some related questions that might interest you:

  1. How do differences in launch speed affect synchronized timing of explosions?
  2. What equations describe projectile motion in such scenarios?
  3. How would a delay greater than 0.25 seconds affect the outcome?
  4. What impact does air resistance have on such calculations?
  5. Could this scenario be solved with calculus if acceleration were involved?

Tip: When solving these kinds of problems, always define all known variables and equations clearly before starting the solution.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Projectile Motion

Formulas

H = v * t
v_A * (t - 0.25) = v_B * t

Theorems

Equation of Motion for Constant Velocity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12