Problem: A parabolic arch has a height of inches and a span of inches. The height, in inches, of the arch at a point inches from the center , is:
Answer Choices:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Solution:
Choose axes so that the -axis coincides with the span AB and the y -axis coincides with the height MC. We may then write the equation for the parabola as . Since , so that . When .
