Solve the problem.
-An experimental model for a suspension bridge is built in the shape of a parabolic arch. In one section,cable runs from the top of one tower down to the roadway, just touching it there, and up again to the topof a second tower. The towers are both 6.25 inches tall and stand 50 inches apart. Find the vertical distancefrom the roadway to the cable at a point on the road 10 inches from the lowest point of the cable.
A)1 in.
B)4 in.
C)1.2 in.
D)0.8 in.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The parabola is symmetric about the vertical axis through the lowest point of the cable, so the vertical distance from the roadway to the cable at a point 10 inches from the lowest point of the cable is the same as the vertical distance from the roadway to the cable at a point 10 inches from the lowest point of the cable on the other side of the vertical axis. This distance is half the height of the parabola, which is 1 inch.

Solve the Problem. -An Experimental Model for a Suspension Bridge Is Built in Is