A ball is thrown upward from a height of 10 meters with an initial velocity of 15 m/s. The height of the ball at time seconds is given by the equation . Find the time when the ball hits the ground. The time is ______ seconds.
Answer & Analysis
Analysis
Question Analysis
This problem tests the student's ability to apply the quadratic formula to a real-world scenario involving a parabolic motion.
Key Concept Explanation
The quadratic formula, , is used to find the roots of a quadratic equation ( ). In this context, the roots represent the times when the ball hits the ground.
Step-by-step Solution
Set to find when the ball hits the ground:
Simplify the equation (optional but helpful):
Multiply through by to make the coefficient of positive:
Divide by 5 to simplify:
Identify a, b, and c from the simplified equation: , , .
Calculate the discriminant:
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