College Algebra & Trigonometry, 2018a

286 CHAPTER 5. CONIC SECTIONS - CIRCLE AND PARABOLA
17) A bridge is built in the shape of a parabolic arch (see figure below). If the
arch is 50 ft. above the water at the center and 200 ft. wide at the water’s surface,
will a boat that is 35 ft. tall clear the arch 30 ft. from the center? If not, how much
taller than the bridge is the boat? If so, how much clearance will there be?
50 ft.
200 ft.
18) A bridge is built in the shape of a parabolic arch. If the arch is 30 ft. above
the water at the center and 150 ft. wide at the water’s surface, find the height of
the arch above the water at distances of 10, 25, 40, and 50 ft. from the center.