SOLUTION: The path of a platform diver can be described by the equation y=-2x^2+15x+6, where x is the horizontal distance in meters of the diver from the edge of the platform and y is the he
Question 27649: The path of a platform diver can be described by the equation y=-2x^2+15x+6, where x is the horizontal distance in meters of the diver from the edge of the platform and y is the height of the diver in meters above the surface of the water. In horizontal distance, about how far in front of the platform will the diver enter the water?
A)2 meters
B) 3 meters
C) 8 meters
D) 15 meters
Can you tell me how to figure this out? I do appreciate it!!!!! Answer by longjonsilver(2297) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website! Draw a simple picture of a horizontal platform. Sketch a nice curve that arcs to reach the water surface.
Now, we need to know the horizontal distance from the platform when the diver hits the water. This is where the height of the diver...ie "y" is zero, since y is defined as the height from the water's surface...so we need to solve
Now, this does not factorise easily, and looking at the quadratic formula, there is a term that will not give any of the answers you quote.
I therefore suggest that your equation is written incorrectly. Please check it.
The method i have explained here will work... you try it on the correct formula.
