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 -4.9t^2+199t+101
Assuming that the rocket will splash down into the ocean, at what time does splashdown occur?
The rocket splashes down after seconds.
How high above sea-level does the rocket get at its peak?
The rocket peaks at meters above sea-level.
Solution
Let's break down the problem step-by-step.
1. Finding the Splashdown Time
The rocket will splash down when its height is zero. The height of the rocket as a function of time is given by:
To find the splashdown time, we need to solve the equation :
This is a quadratic equation of the form . We can use the quadratic formula: where , , and .
Calculating the roots:
Let's compute the values to find the splashdown time.
2. Finding the Maximum Height
The maximum height of the rocket is achieved at the vertex of the parabolic function . The time at which the vertex occurs can be found using:
For our equation, and :
After finding this time, we can substitute it back into the height function to find the maximum height.
I'll now calculate both the splashdown time and the peak height.### Results:
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Splashdown Time: The rocket splashes down at approximately seconds.
-
Maximum Height: The rocket reaches its peak height of approximately meters above sea level.
Would you like further details or have any questions?
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you find the time of maximum height using calculus?
- What is the significance of the discriminant in the quadratic formula?
- How does the initial velocity affect the maximum height and splashdown time?
- What would happen if we changed the gravity constant in the equation?
- Can you graph the function to visually represent the rocket's flight?
Tip: To find the maximum or minimum of a quadratic function, use the vertex formula .
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Quadratic Functions
Vertex of a Parabola
Physics of Projectile Motion
Formulas
Quadratic equation: h(t) = -4.9t^2 + 199t + 101
Quadratic formula: t = (-b ± √(b^2 - 4ac)) / 2a
Vertex formula: t = -b / 2a
Theorems
Quadratic Formula
Vertex Theorem for Parabolas
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12