We can use the formula h=-16t^2+ h_0 to approximate the time it takes for the balloon to hit the ground. Let's begin by identifying that h_0 is the initial height from which we are dropping the balloon. When the balloon impacts the ground is h. Therefore, we can substitute 0 for h and 40 for h_0.
h=-16t^2+ h_0 ⇒ 0=-16t^2+ 40
Next, we can solve for t.
Mathematically our solution can be positive or negative. However, in this scenario, a negative solution does not make sense. Our solution must then be t≈ 1.58.