Question

What is the equation that describes the parabola formed by the arch?

1) y = -0.071(x - 13)²
2) y = -0.071(x + 13)²
3) y = 0.071(x - 13)²
4) y = 0.071(x + 13)²

Answer 1

To determine the equation of a parabola representing an arch, one must consider the orientation and vertex coordinates. For a parabola that opens downward with vertex (13,0), the equation could be 1) y = -0.071(x - 13)².

Step-by-step explanation:

The equation that describes the parabola formed by the arch depends on the orientation and the coordinates of the vertex. If the vertex is at (13, 0) and the parabola opens downward, we are likely looking at a negative coefficient for the quadratic term. Therefore, possible equations could be of the form y = a(x - h)2 + k or y = a(x + h)2 + k where 'a' is negative because the parabola opens downwards, and 'h' and 'k' represent the coordinates of the vertex.

Without additional context, it is difficult to determine which is correct, but assuming the vertex is at (13,0) and the axis of symmetry is vertical, 1) y = -0.071(x - 13)2 could describe the arch if the parabola opens downward and has its vertex at (13,0).