Solve the problem.
-Starting at point A, a ship sails 48 km on a bearing of 217°, then turns and sails 15 km on a bearing of 280°. Find the distance of the ship from point A.
A)63 km
B)71 km
C)56 km
D)8 km

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To solve this problem, we can use the law of cosines or break the movements into vector components. The first leg of the journey moves the ship southwest, and the second leg moves it more westerly. By breaking these movements into north-south and east-west components and then summing these components, we can find the resultant vector from the starting point to the final position. The distance from point A can then be found by calculating the magnitude of this resultant vector, which gives us the direct distance from the starting point to the final position. The correct calculation leads to a distance of 56 km, making option C the correct answer.

Solve the Problem. -Starting at Point A, a Ship Sails 48 Km on 48