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$$h(t)=-16 t^{2}+110 t+72$$The function above models the height $h$, in feet, of an object above ground $t$ seconds after being launched straight up in the air. What does the number 72 represent in the function?

SAT · Math · previous-year question

  1. A.The initial height, in feet, of the objectcorrect
  2. B.The maximum height, in feet, of the object
  3. C.The initial speed, in feet per second, of the object
  4. D.The maximum speed, in feet per second, of the object

Answer

A. The initial height, in feet, of the object

Explanation

Choice $\mathbf{A}$ is correct. The variable $t$ represents the seconds after the object is launched. Since $h(0)=72$, this, means that the height, in feet, at 0 seconds, or the initial height, is 72 feet.Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may be the result of misinterpreting the function in context.

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