quadratic function problem: Find quad. fcn. for height

[ccndmathhelp]

I've tried and cried and I still cant figure out how to solve this problem. Please help!

The height h of a thrown object as a function of the horizontal distance d that it has traveled is a quadratic function. An object is thrown from ground level, 63 m away from the base of a tower 17 m high and just barely clears the top of the tower. It then lands 63 m away on the other side. Find h(d), the quadratic function that represents this.

Thanks so much!

 

[galactus]

Hey there:

Try using \(\displaystyle \L\\y=a(x-h)^{2}+k\)

(h,k) = (0,17) = the coordinates of the vertex.

(x,y) = (63,0) = the coordinates of a point it passes through.

The vertex is the top of the tower.

\(\displaystyle \L\\0=a(63-0)^{2}+17\)

Solving for a and find your equation.

 

[stapel]

I've tried....

Great! Show us what you've tried, and we'll be glad to try to help you find your errors and/or get un-stuck! :wink:

Please be specific. Thank you!

Eliz.