Solve the problem.
-An airplane leaves an airport and flies due west 170 miles and then 160 miles in the direction S 79.50°W. How far is the plane from the airport at this time (to the nearest mile)?
A) 334 mi
B) 319 mi
C) 329 mi
D) 324 mi

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To find the distance from the airport, use the law of cosines. The angle between the two paths is 100.5° (180° - 79.5°). Using the law of cosines: c² = 170² + 160² - 2(170)(160)cos(100.5°). Solving gives c ≈ 329 miles.

Solve the Problem. -An Airplane Leaves an Airport and Flies Due West 170