A quadratic function is a type of nonlinear function that models certain situations. As an object falls, its speed continues to increase, so its height above the ground decreases at a faster and faster rate. One can model the objects height with the function h = 16t2 + c. The height h is given in feet above the ground after the time t is given in seconds, and the objects initial height c is given in feet. Using the Text Editor, write a brief essay in which you describe the difference between a linear function and a quadratic function. Provide specific details regarding the appearance of the two functions and their graphs. Describe how a quadratic function and a linear function might go together, and what the graph might look like. Additionally, describe the plan or steps to solving the problem below to help you support your assertions:
A pinecone drops from a tree branch that is 20 feet above the ground. The function h = 16t2 + 20 is used. If the height h of the pinecone is in feet after t seconds, at about what time does the pinecone hit the ground?