Math Problem Statement

Which set of numbers represents an appropriate domain for the function for the Giant Slide?

Solution

Let's analyze the question step by step.

The function given for the Giant Slide is: h=8t2+56h = -8t^2 + 56 where hh represents the height and tt represents the distance down the slide. The question asks:

"Which set of numbers represents an appropriate domain for the function?"


Key Observations:

  1. Domain: This refers to the possible values that tt can take. For a physical context like a slide, tt must represent a distance down the slide.
  2. Distance cannot be negative: Since tt represents a physical distance, the domain must include values greater than or equal to 0.
  3. End of the slide: The slide starts at t=0t = 0 and ends at some maximum value of tt, which corresponds to when the height hh becomes zero.

Step 1: Solve for when h=0h = 0

To determine the range of tt (distance), set h=0h = 0: 8t2+56=0-8t^2 + 56 = 0 Simplify: t2=568=7t^2 = \frac{56}{8} = 7 Take the square root: t=7ort=7t = \sqrt{7} \quad \text{or} \quad t = -\sqrt{7} Since tt represents distance, negative values are not valid. Therefore: t[0,7]t \in [0, \sqrt{7}]


Step 2: Choose the appropriate domain set

The options are:

  • A. Positive integers: Includes only whole numbers like 1, 2, 3... This is not correct since tt can be any real number between 0 and 7\sqrt{7}.
  • B. Positive real numbers: Includes all positive numbers, including decimals. This is partially correct but excludes 0.
  • C. Natural numbers: Typically starts at 1, so it excludes 0 and decimals. Not correct.
  • D. Rational numbers: Includes all numbers that can be expressed as fractions (like 0, 0.5, 1.2, etc.), which can approximate real numbers within the domain.

Final Answer:

The appropriate domain for tt includes all real numbers between 0 and 7\sqrt{7}, including 0. Therefore, the correct choice is:

B. Positive real numbers


Do you want a deeper explanation or have further questions?


Here are 5 related questions to expand understanding:

  1. What is the range of the function h=8t2+56h = -8t^2 + 56?
  2. How would the domain change if the function represented a real-world projectile motion?
  3. What is the significance of the negative sign in the function 8t2-8t^2?
  4. What are rational numbers, and how do they differ from real numbers?
  5. Can the function h=8t2+56h = -8t^2 + 56 represent any physical situation other than a slide?

Tip: When interpreting real-world functions, always consider practical limitations like time, distance, and physical boundaries.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Functions
Domain of a Function

Formulas

h = -8t^2 + 56

Theorems

Properties of Quadratic Functions
Domain and Range of Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10