SOLUTION: A flag is raised while an onlooker watches from a distance of 17 feet away from the base of the flag pole. The flag rises vertically at a rate of 5 inches per second. Let t denote

Algebra ->  Functions -> SOLUTION: A flag is raised while an onlooker watches from a distance of 17 feet away from the base of the flag pole. The flag rises vertically at a rate of 5 inches per second. Let t denote       Log On


   



Question 649450: A flag is raised while an onlooker watches from a distance of 17 feet away from the base of the flag pole. The flag rises vertically at a rate of 5 inches per second. Let t denote the time (in seconds) after the flag begins to rise (For simplicity, assume that when the flag begins to rise it is 0 inches above the ground). Express the distance d (in feet) between the flag and the onlooker as a function of t.
I have attempted this several times using the pythagorean theorem, but I I have not gotten the correct answer. Please help!

Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
A flag is raised while an onlooker watches from a distance of 17 feet away
from the base of the flag pole.
The flag rises vertically at a rate of 5 inches per second.
Let t denote the time (in seconds) after the flag begins to rise
(For simplicity, assume that when the flag begins to rise it is 0 inches
above the ground).
Express the distance d (in feet) between the flag and the onlooker as a function of t.
:
Change 5 inches to 5%2F12 ft
:
Use the pythag: c^2 = a^2 + b^2, in this problem
a = 5%2F12t
b = 17
c = d
:
d^2 = (5%2F12t)^2 + 17^2
d = sqrt%28%2825%2F144%29t%5E2+%2B+289%29