Chapter 9.6, Problem 64PFA

To determine

Find the solution.

Answer to Problem 64PFA

1.77 seconds

Explanation of Solution

Given Information: $h=-16t^2+50$

Formula Used: Quadratic formula

Calculation:

The quadratic equation gives the height of the scaffolding from its starting position, which is 50 feet above ground.

  $h=-16t^2+50$

To find time it takes to drop 50 feet, means the ground level, where height is equal to 0 Or, $h=0$

  $0=-16t^2+50$

So, simplify

  $16t^2=50$

Now,

  $t^2=3.125$

Now,

  $t=\sqrt{3.125}$

Hence,

  $t=1.77$

So, it takes the scaffolding about 1.77 seconds to drop 50 feet.