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+208t+346.

Solution

To analyze the height function of the rocket, given by h(t)=4.9t2+208t+346h(t) = -4.9t^2 + 208t + 346, we can explore various aspects:

  1. Maximum Height: To find the time at which the rocket reaches its maximum height, we can use the vertex formula for a quadratic function, t=b2at = -\frac{b}{2a}, where a=4.9a = -4.9 and b=208b = 208.

  2. Height at Specific Times: We can calculate the height at specific time intervals, such as at t=0t = 0 seconds (launch), t=10t = 10 seconds, etc.

  3. Time of Flight: To determine when the rocket hits the ground, we can set h(t)=0h(t) = 0 and solve for tt.

  4. Graph of the Function: Plotting the function will give us a visual representation of the rocket's flight.

  5. Acceleration: The acceleration due to gravity is constant in this function, which is indicated by the coefficient of t2t^2.

Steps to Find Key Values

  1. Maximum Height Calculation: t=b2a=20824.921.2 secondst = -\frac{b}{2a} = -\frac{208}{2 \cdot -4.9} \approx 21.2 \text{ seconds} Substituting tt back into the height function will give the maximum height.

  2. Height at Launch (t=0t = 0): h(0)=346 metersh(0) = 346 \text{ meters}

  3. Ground Impact Time Calculation: Set h(t)=0h(t) = 0: 4.9t2+208t+346=0-4.9t^2 + 208t + 346 = 0 Use the quadratic formula t=b±b24ac2at = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}.

Would you like to calculate any specific values or delve deeper into a particular aspect? Here are some questions to consider:

  1. What is the maximum height of the rocket?
  2. At what time does the rocket hit the ground?
  3. Can we graph the function for a visual representation?
  4. How does the acceleration affect the rocket's motion?
  5. What other factors might influence the rocket's flight path?

Tip: Understanding the properties of quadratic functions can greatly help in analyzing projectile motion!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Quadratic Functions
Projectile Motion
Algebra

Formulas

h(t) = -4.9t^2 + 208t + 346
t = -b/(2a)
Quadratic formula: t = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a)

Theorems

Vertex formula for quadratic functions
Quadratic formula

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12