Question

A science class is doing an experiment with a model rocket. The rocket shoots straight up in the air, and the students record the time it takes for the rocket to hit the ground. The height of the rocket at time t, in seconds, is given by the equation y = -2(t – 2)2 + 12, where y is in meters.

If the initial height of the rocket is the height of the rocket at time t = 0, what is the initial height of the rocket?

Answer 1

To find the initial height of the rocket, we need to determine the height of the rocket when t = 0, since that is the initial time.

Substituting t = 0 into the given equation, we get:

y = -2(0 – 2)2 + 12

y = -2(-2)2 + 12

y = -2(4) + 12

y = 8

Therefore, the initial height of the rocket is 8 meters.

Explanation: