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Question from Brad, a student:

A parabolic arch satisfies the equation y= 16 - 0.25x^2 for y >= 0. Find the width w of the arch.

Hi Brad,

This is a parabola tat opens downward and forms an arch. It is only defined for y ≥ 0 so the base must be at y = 0. What are the x-values when y = 0? What is the distance between hem?

Penny

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