Can a Ship Enter a Harbor? Calculating Depth Using h(t) = 3 + 2sin(0.5236t)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical function h(t) = 3 + 2sin(0.5236t), which calculates the depth of water in meters as a function of time t (in hours after 7). A ship can only enter the harbor if the water depth is 4.5 meters or more. The correct approach to find the time intervals when the depth meets this requirement involves solving for t using the sine function, specifically identifying the solutions at t = 1.619 and t = 2.293. The final step requires dividing the latter solution by 0.5236 to determine the duration the ship can remain in the harbor.

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Homework Statement


h(t) = 3 + 2sin(0.5236t)
h = depth in meters (water)
t = number of hours after 7

1) A certain ship can only enter the harbor if the depth is 4.5m or more. For how long can this ship stay at the harbor?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried getting both of the sine solutions 1.619 and 2.293. I substracted the former from the latter but that didn't work. Can anyone point me in the right direction?
 
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BadatPhysicsguy said:

Homework Statement


h(t) = 3 + 2sin(0.5236t)
h = depth in meters (water)
t = number of hours after 7

1) A certain ship can only enter the harbor if the depth is 4.5m or more. For how long can this ship stay at the harbor?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried getting both of the sine solutions 1.619 and 2.293. I substracted the former from the latter but that didn't work. Can anyone point me in the right direction?
You forgot to divide 2.293 with 0.5236.
 
Write out your solution in full detail next time, to show how much work you have done. :)
 

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