A flying cannonball’s height is described by formula y=−16t^2+300t. Find the highest point of its trajectory.

Question

In how many seconds after the shot will cannonball be at the highest point?

 

 

In _______ seconds cannonball will be at the highest point. The highest point is __________.

Answer 1

The height vs. time function is a parabola in time.  Its maximum occurs at the vertex, which is at

 

t = -300/[2(-16)] sec = 9.375 sec

 

Evaluate y at t = 9.375 sec to get maximum height in ft.