Question

Help with conics parabola

Answer 1

Will attach a file

Answer 2

For number 5
I got the answer but not sure if the vertex of the bridge is at (0,0) do you assume that?

Answer 3

The parabolic equation is to model the height of each of the supporting wires. The vertex of that parabola is going to be the height of the smallest support wire.

You may assume that it is at x=0 (Vertex (0, y)) to make it easier in regards to finding the support wire at 50 ftt from the shortest / middle.

Answer 4

But can the vertex be (40,150) ?

Answer 5

I mean 150,40

Answer 6

It could be there as well. You just have to accommodate for that position when finding the equation and the point 50 ft from it.

Answer 7

Basically, as long as your equation returns the right y-values, the x-values aren't too important since we're only interested in the height, and the x-values are just the 'guide' to the y-values.

Answer 8

So you think 150,40 leads ,e to the correct answer?

Answer 9

Yeah, it should work out as well, assuming the equation was found correctly using that vertex.