Find the time it takes for a ball to hit the ground

The video tutorial explains how to solve a problem involving a ball dropped from a 400-foot tower. The equation h(t) = -16t^2 + 400 represents the height of the ball over time, forming a downward parabola. The goal is to determine the time it takes for the ball to hit the ground by solving the quadratic equation. The instructor guides through the algebraic steps, emphasizing the importance of understanding square roots and simplifying calculations without a calculator. The solution reveals that the ball takes 5 seconds to reach the ground.

What is the initial height of the ball before it starts to fall?

• 200 feet

• 500 feet

• 300 feet

• 400 feet

What type of mathematical equation is used to represent the height of the ball over time?

• Linear equation

• Quadratic equation

• Logarithmic equation

• Exponential equation

What is the value of H(t) when t is 0?

• 0

• 16

• 400

• 32

When solving the quadratic equation, why is the negative solution for time disregarded?

• Negative time would mean the ball is moving upwards

• The equation only allows positive solutions

• Negative time is possible but not practical

• Time cannot be negative in this context

How long does it take for the ball to hit the ground?

• 5 seconds

• 4 seconds

• 6 seconds

• 3 seconds