Study Notes
Bearings are used in navigation and geometry to describe direction, measured as an angle clockwise from the north direction.
- Bearing — an angle measured clockwise from the north direction, always written in three digits. Example: The bearing of B from A is 025 degrees.
- Reference Direction — the starting point for measuring a bearing, which is always north. Example: Bearings are measured clockwise from north.
- Trigonometric Functions — used to calculate bearings and distances in right triangles. Example: Sine, cosine, and tangent functions are often applied.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- A bearing is an angle measured clockwise from the north direction.
- Bearings are always written in three digits.
Common Confusions
- Forgetting to measure the angle clockwise from north.
- Not using three digits to express a bearing.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is the bearing of B from A? Measure the angle clockwise from north and express it in three digits.
- Write down the bearing of A from P. Measure the angle clockwise from north and express it in three digits.
- Work out the bearing of B from P. Use trigonometric functions if necessary and express the answer in three digits.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of how to measure and write bearings correctly.
- Ability to apply trigonometric functions to calculate bearings and distances.
- Interpretation and communication of bearing information accurately.