A satellite dish is in the shape of a parabolic surface. Signals coming from a satellite strike the surface of the dish and are reflected to the focus, where the receiver is located. The satellite dish has a diameter of 12 feet and a depth of 4 feet. How far from the base of the dish should the receiver be placed
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To find the distance from the base of the dish where the receiver should be placed, we need to find the focal length (f) of the parabolic surface.
The focal length of a parabolic surface can be found using the equation:
f = (4 * h^2) / d
Where:
- f is the focal length
- h is the depth of the dish
- d is the diameter of the dish
Substituting the given values:
f = (4 * 4^2) / 12
f = (4 * 16) / 12
f = 64 / 12
f = 5.33 feet
Therefore, the receiver should be placed at a distance of approximately 5.33 feet from the base of the dish.