Math Problem Statement

NASA launches a rocket at t=0 seconds. Its height, in meters above sea-level, as a function of time is given by h(t)=-4.9t2+46t+241.

Solution

The height h(t)h(t) of the rocket is given by the quadratic function:

h(t)=4.9t2+46t+241h(t) = -4.9t^2 + 46t + 241

Key Features of the Function

  1. Vertex (Maximum Height): The vertex of the parabola represents the maximum height of the rocket. The time tt at which this occurs can be found using the formula:

    t=b2at = -\frac{b}{2a}

    where a=4.9a = -4.9 and b=46b = 46.

  2. Time of Flight: The rocket will rise until it reaches its maximum height and then fall back down. To find the total time of flight, we need to determine when h(t)=0h(t) = 0.

  3. Maximum Height: Once we find tt for the vertex, we can plug it back into h(t)h(t) to find the maximum height.

Steps to Solve

  1. Find the vertex time: t=4624.9=469.84.69 secondst = -\frac{46}{2 \cdot -4.9} = \frac{46}{9.8} \approx 4.69 \text{ seconds}

  2. Calculate maximum height: h(4.69)=4.9(4.69)2+46(4.69)+241h(4.69) = -4.9(4.69)^2 + 46(4.69) + 241

  3. Find the time when the rocket hits the ground: Set h(t)=0h(t) = 0 and solve the quadratic equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Quadratic Functions
Physics

Formulas

h(t) = -4.9t^2 + 46t + 241
t = -b/(2a)

Theorems

Vertex of a parabola
Quadratic equation solutions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12