Final answer:
To calculate the height of the model rocket when it is 15 feet from the launch pad, plug the value into the given function h(d), which gives a result of 45 feet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student asks about the height of a model rocket when it is 15 feet from the launch pad, using the given function h(d) = -(d - 9)^2 + 81. To find h(15), substitute d with 15 in the equation:
h(15) = -(15 - 9)^2 + 81
h(15) = -(6)^2 + 81
h(15) = -36 + 81
h(15) = 45
Therefore, the height of the rocket at 15 feet from the launch pad is 45 feet.