SUMMARY
The trajectory of a water stream from a hose can be modeled by the quadratic equation y = -0.003x² + 0.58x + 3, where x and y are in feet. Given that the firefighter holds the hose 3 feet above the ground and is positioned 137 feet from a building, the water stream will not reach the window, which is 26 feet above the ground. Calculating the maximum height of the water stream confirms that it falls short of the window height.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of quadratic equations and their graphs
- Knowledge of projectile motion principles
- Ability to perform basic algebraic calculations
- Familiarity with the concept of maximum height in parabolic trajectories
NEXT STEPS
- Study the properties of quadratic functions and their applications in real-world scenarios
- Learn about projectile motion and its mathematical modeling
- Explore the use of graphing tools to visualize parabolic trajectories
- Investigate real-life applications of water trajectory calculations in firefighting and irrigation
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics or mathematics, engineers involved in fluid dynamics, and professionals in firefighting or irrigation systems design will benefit from this discussion.