Solve the problem.
-An experimental model for a suspension bridge is built. In one section, cable runs from the top of one tower down to the roadway, just touching it there, and up again to the top of a second tower. The towers
Stand 40 inches apart. At a point between the towers and 10 inches along the road from the base of one
Tower, the cable is 1 inches above the roadway. Find the height of the towers.
A)4 in.
B)4.5 in.
C)3.5 in.
D)6 in.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cable forms a parabola. Using the vertex form of a parabola equation, the vertex is at the lowest point (10, 1). The symmetry of the parabola means the towers are equidistant from the vertex, so they are 20 inches from the vertex. Using the equation of the parabola, the height of the towers is 4 inches.

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