Lashae B.

asked • 09/15/15

I need to solve for t

D=vt+1/2at^2

Julian C.

Okay, now I see what you mean- D = vt + (1/2)at^2
This is a standard equation for motion, I should've recognized it.
 
So you move everything to one side (subtract D from both sides):
 
0 = (1/2)at^2 + vt - D
 
And this is a quadratic in t. So use the quadratic formula, with "a" = (1/2)a, "b" = v, "c" = -D
 
Answer:  t = [-v ± √(v² + 2Da)] / a
Report

09/15/15

1 Expert Answer

By:

Julian C. answered • 09/15/15

Tutor
5.0 (163)

Clear, patient and reliable math tutor

See tutors like this
See tutors like this
Hi Lashae,
 
I'm assuming that the fraction has (vt + 1) in the numerator, not just 1/2at^2 with vt on the side.
 
First multiply both sides by 2at^2 to clear the denominator:
 
D*2at^2 = vt + 1
 
or 2Dat^2 = vt + 1
 
Rearrange to get zero on one side.
 
2Dat^2 - vt - 1 = 0
 
You now have quadratic equation in t, so you can use the formula, using "a" = 2Da, "b" = -v, "c" = -1
 
t = [v ± √(v²+8Da)] / 4Da
Upvote • 0 Downvote
More
Report

Lashae B.

No, actually it doesn't
Report

09/15/15

Still looking for help? Get the right answer, fast.

Ask a question for free

Get a free answer to a quick problem.
Most questions answered within 4 hours.

OR

Find an Online Tutor Now

Choose an expert and meet online. No packages or subscriptions, pay only for the time you need.