Here is the derivation of the altitude equation which can be used to determine the height of a kite, or a model rocket in flight. A text only version of this page is available with all of the derivation.

Computer drawing of the equation and the measurements needed to compute the altitude of a flying kite.
Graphic with math derivation of the altitude equation

This is an example of how engineers use the math that you are studying in high school. Using a couple of simple measurements on the ground you can determine the height of a kite, or a model rocket ... which would be very hard to measure directly.

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byTom Benson
Please send suggestions/corrections to: benson@grc.nasa.gov