SOLUTION: A plane flies 760 km due north then flies on a bearing of 220° until it is due west of its original position. Find the distance (to the nearest km) the plane is from its origina

Algebra ->  Trigonometry-basics -> SOLUTION: A plane flies 760 km due north then flies on a bearing of 220° until it is due west of its original position. Find the distance (to the nearest km) the plane is from its origina      Log On


   



Question 1113306: A plane flies 760 km due north then flies on a
bearing of 220° until it is due west of its original
position. Find the distance (to the nearest km)
the plane is from its original position.
Thank you

Answer by josgarithmetic(39615) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
North direction leg 760 km
Westward direction leg, x

The two legs meet at 90 degree angle.
Angle at the north: 50 degrees
Angle at the west: 40 degrees.

x%2F760=tan%2850%29

x=760%2Atan%2850%29

x=906

-

I used the 220 degree bearing according to 0 degrees being directly Eastward, so as to be the same direction as used on the Unit Circle. East, like the positive direction on the x-axis. This way 180 degrees is all the way West, and 220 degrees is 220-180=40 degrees downward from West.