Example

Example: Solving a Falling Object Application

To find the time an object takes to reach the ground, use the formula t=h4t = \frac{\sqrt{h}}{4}. For example, if sunglasses are dropped from a bridge 400400 feet above a river, substitute h=400h = 400 into the formula to get t=4004t = \frac{\sqrt{400}}{4}. Taking the square root of 400400 gives t=204t = \frac{20}{4}, which simplifies to t=5t = 5. Checking this answer, 55 seconds is a reasonable amount of time. Therefore, it will take 55 seconds for the sunglasses to reach the river.

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Updated 2026-05-25

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