To find the rate of change in the balloon's altitude, we divide the change in altitude by the time it takes to make the adjustment. The change in altitude is 5,000 feet (since the balloon is descending), and the time it takes is 2.5 minutes.
The quotient is 5000/2.5 = 2000 feet per minute.
Therefore, the rate of change in the balloon's altitude is 2000 feet per minute, when rounded to the nearest hundredth.
A hot air balloon pilot decides to fly 5,000 feet lower due to high wind. It takes the pilot 2.5 minutes to make this adjustment. Interpret the quotient to describe the rate of change in the balloon's altitude. Give your answer to the nearest hundredth, and remember the balloon is descending.
1 answer
1 answer