WAEC WAEC Nigeria General Mathematics
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Bearings Basics
Understanding Bearings
What Are Bearings?
In navigation and mapping, a bearing is a way of describing the direction of one point from another. Bearings are measured in degrees, ranging from 0° to 360°, and are typically expressed in three digits, such as 035°.
Bearings are used to describe directions in navigation, surveying, and map reading.
Types of Bearings
- True Bearings: Measured clockwise from the north direction.
- Compass Bearings: Use cardinal points (N, S, E, W) and angles, e.g., N35°E.
How to Read Bearings
Bearings are always measured clockwise from the north direction. For example, a bearing of 90° points directly east, while a bearing of 180° points directly south.
Worked Example
Example: What is the bearing of point B from point A if it is directly east?
Using Bearings in Practical Problems
Bearings can be used to calculate distances and solve navigation problems. Here is a simple example:
Worked Example
Example: A ship sails from point A on a bearing of 045° for 10 km. How far north and east has the ship traveled?
Tuity Tip
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Tuity Tip: Always express bearings with three digits to avoid confusion, e.g., 045° instead of 45°.
Remember: Bearings are measured clockwise from north.
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