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Conic Sections
16. Parametric Equations & Polar Coordinates / Conic Sections / Problem 5
Problem 5

A suspension bridge was constructed with two main towers that are 15001500 meters apart. The towers rise 180180 meters above the deck of the bridge. The cable supporting the deck between the towers forms a parabolic shape. By placing the origin at the midpoint of the bridge deck between the towers, find the quadratic equation that models the shape of the cable. Then, calculate the height of the cable above the deck at a point 600600 meters from the center of the bridge.
Side view of a suspension bridge with two towers 1500m apart and cables forming a parabolic curve 180m high.