Question

The function h defined by h(t)=(49 + 4.9t)(10 - t) models the height, in meters, of an object t seconds after it is dropped from a helicopter.
From what height is the object dropped? Explain how you know.

Answer 1

Answer:

Step-by-step explanation:

Let's FOIL this out and get it into standard quadratic format:

$h(t)=-4.9t^2+490$. The lack of a linear term in the middle means therewas no upwards velocity, consistent with the object being dropped straight down as opposed to thrown up in the air tand then falling in a parabolic path. The -4.9t² represents the acceleration due to gravity, and the 490 represents the height from which the object was dropped. The constant in a quadratic that is modeling parabolic motion always represents the height from which the object was dropped (or launched). That's how you know.