MM212 College Algebra Unit 7 Discussion

The Unit 7 Discussion Board focuses on solving quadratic equations. The graphs of quadratic equations are parabolas (U-shaped), and solving a quadratic equation can tell you where a curve crosses zero. This is very useful information for nurses, insurance underwriters, business managers, real estate managers, and human cannonballs!

There are three parts to the Unit 7 Discussion activity. Be sure to complete all three components to earn the most points! Click on the Discussion link located below the Unit button to the left for full details and instructions.

Quadratic Equations

Human Cannonball

Part 1:

You are being shot out of a cannon. Use the following equation to determine how many seconds it will take for you to hit the ground.

Y is your height in feet off of the ground at any time during your “flight”, v is your initial velocity in feet per second, h is your starting height in feet off of the ground, and t is time in seconds.

Choose values for the variables using the following parameters. Your cannon must be at least 10 feet off the ground. The initial velocity can be anywhere from 75 to 150 feet per second. Since we want the time required for you to land (safely!) on the ground, let Y = 0. Substitute the values into the equation and use one of the methods discussed in this unit (factoring, completing the square, or the quadratic formula) to solve this quadratic equation for t. Show all work for this calculation. Click here to see an example.

Part 2:

Reply to a classmate by finding their height when t = 1, 5, and 10 seconds. Do the answers make sense? Why or why not? Be sure to show all of your calculations. Click here to see an example.

Part 3:

Choose one of the following to complete:

1. Check a classmate’s answer for Part 1. Substitute both of their solutions and verify the statements are true. Did your classmate perform all calculations correctly? If you discover any errors, respectfully point them out to your classmate.

2. Create a scenario explaining why your classmate was shot out of a cannon. Include details of the events leading up to the incident. Appropriate humor and creativity are encouraged.

Note: Your responses to your classmates must be substantive and advance the Discussion. Substantive means your reply must 1) include comments specific to that particular post and 2) contain information or insight worthy of sharing with the instructor and class. Contact your instructor if you have questions about making substantive responses. MM212 College Algebra Unit 7 Discussion