Question

eriks physics class is outside testing the miniature rockets they built. erik sets his rocket on the ground and then launches it into the sky. it shoots up high in the air before returning to the ground. which graph could show the height of eriks rocket above the ground over time?

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze rocket motion

The rocket starts on the ground (height = 0), then is launched upwards, reaches a maximum height, and then falls back to the ground (height = 0 again). Its motion is a parabolic - like path due to the force of gravity acting on it.

Step2: Evaluate each graph

The first graph shows the height starting at 0, increasing to a maximum, and then decreasing back to 0 which is consistent with the motion of the rocket. The second graph shows the height increasing and then remaining constant which is not correct as the rocket will fall back down. The third graph has a sharp corner at the top which is not physically possible for the smooth motion of the rocket under gravity. The fourth graph shows the height increasing and then remaining constant which is incorrect for the motion of a falling - back rocket.

Answer:

The first graph (the one with a parabolic - like shape starting and ending at height = 0)