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| Math Central | Quandaries & Queries |
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Question from Angela, a student: A parabolic arch has an equation of x^2 + 20y - 400 = 0 where x is measured in feet. How do I find the maximum height of the arch? |
Hi Angela,
A parabolic arch is symmetric around the line through its vertex.
P and Q are the points where the graph crosses the x-axis. Find the x-coordinates of P and Q and then find the point on the x-axis half way between them. The maximum height of the arch occurs at this point.
Penny
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