Answer:
y = (-2/125)(x - 50)² + 40
Step-by-step explanation:
The total length of the bridge is 100 meters.
Maximum height always occurs at midpoint of x.
So for x=50 meters , y = 40 meters.
As the vertex is given at the maximum height, Vertex can be defined at the point (50,40)
We know that the general equation for vertical parabola is:
y = a(x - h)² + k
Where (h,k) = Vertex = (50,40)
Substitute in the equation:
y = a(x - 50)² + 40 ⇒ Equation (i)
We know 2 more points on the parabola. We know that when x=0 , y=0 and we also know that when x=100m, y=0 meters.
Substitute any point in the above equation
Substituting (100,0) in the equation
0 = a(100 - 50)² +40
Solve the equation for a:
a = - 2/125
Substitute a in Equation (i)
y = (-2/125)(x - 50)² + 40
