Understanding the Calculation: ( h(5) = -4.9(25) + 49(5) = -122.5 + 245 = 122.5 ) Meters

When solving mathematical expressions like ( h(5) = -4.9(25) + 49(5) ), understanding each step is key to grasping the underlying physics and function evaluation—especially in contexts such as projectile motion. In this case, the result ( h(5) = 122.5 ) meters reveals an important distance measurement derived from a quadratic function.

What Does ( h(n) = -4.9n^2 + 49n ) Represent?

Understanding the Context

This expression models a physical scenario involving vertical motion under constant gravitational acceleration. Specifically, it approximates the height ( h(n) ) (in meters) of an object at time ( n ) seconds, assuming:

  • Initial upward velocity related to coefficient ( 49 )
    - Acceleration due to gravity approximated as ( -4.9 , \ ext{m/s}^2 ) (using ( g pprox 9.8 , \ ext{m/s}^2 ) divided by ( 2 ))
    - Time ( n ) given as 5 seconds

Step-by-Step Breakdown: ( h(5) = -4.9(25) + 49(5) )

  1. Evaluate ( -4.9 \ imes 25 ):
    [
    -4.9 \ imes 25 = -122.5
    ]

Key Insights

  1. Evaluate ( 49 \ imes 5 ):
    [
    49 \ imes 5 = 245
    ]

  2. Add the results:
    [
    -122.5 + 245 = 122.5
    ]

Thus, at ( n = 5 ) seconds, the height ( h(5) = 122.5 ) meters.

Why Is This Significant?

This calculation illustrates how functions model real-world motion. The quadratic form ( h(n) = -4.9n^2 + 49n ) reflects the effect of gravity pulling objects downward while an initial upward velocity contributes height. At ( n = 5 ), despite gravity’s pull reducing height, the object’s momentum or initial push results in a still significant upward displacement of 122.5 meters.

Final Thoughts

Practical Applications

Understanding such equations helps in physics, engineering, and sports science, especially when predicting trajectories:

  • Projectile motion of balls, rockets, or drones
    - Engineering simulations for optimal release angles and velocities
    - Field calculations in sports analytics, such as estimating ball height in basketball or volleyball

Conclusion

The calculation ( h(5) = -4.9(25) + 49(5) = 122.5 ) meters is not just a computation—it represents a meaningful physical quantity derived from a real-world model. By breaking down each term and recognizing the underlying motion, learners and professionals alike can apply these principles confidently in various scientific and technical fields.


Keywords: ( h(5) ), quadratic function, projectile motion, gravitational acceleration, physics calculation, ( -4.9n^2 ), ( 49n ), height under gravity, mathematical motion model, 122.5 meters in physics, time and height calculation.