Mission Trig Results

The Mission Rescue: An Exercise in Vector Addition
Trigonometric Technique

Calculate the Vectors by Using 'x and y' Coordinates and Trig Functions
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1. Using the dimensional triangle that we obtained through direct measurement, we may calculate the small enclosed angle for use in determining bearing or compass heading. A useful trig function here might be the 'Tangent' relationship where the tangent of the angle is opposite side divided by adjacent side or in our example, the blue side divided by the red side.

2. Dividing 1 by 2.3, we get 0.435 which is the tangent of our angle. Therefore, the angle measure is 23.5 degrees. Add this angle to the westward direction (270 degrees) to obtain the final bearing.

3. The resultant vector from San Buenaventura to Santa Barbara is 25 miles at 293.5 degrees. Again, compare this to the values we received by direct measurement.

[ Go to the Selection List and choose a different technique. ]

An Assignment: Calculate the resultant vector from Santa Barbara to Santa Ines using the x - y techniques. Sketch the resultant triangle. Comment on differences between measurements.

1. Using the dimensional triangle that we obtained through direct measurement, we may calculate the small enclosed angle for use in determining bearing or compass heading. A useful trig function here might be the 'Tangent' relationship where the tangent of the angle is opposite side divided by adjacent side or in our example, the blue side divided by the red side.
2. Dividing 1 by 2.3, we get 0.435 which is the tangent of our angle. Therefore, the angle measure is 23.5 degrees. Add this angle to the westward direction (270 degrees) to obtain the final bearing.	3. The resultant vector from San Buenaventura to Santa Barbara is 25 miles at 293.5 degrees. Again, compare this to the values we received by direct measurement.

Calculate the Vectors by Using 'x and y' Coordinates and Trig Functions

[ Go to the Selection List and choose a different technique. ] An Assignment: Calculate the resultant vector from Santa Barbara to Santa Ines using the x - y techniques. Sketch the resultant triangle. Comment on differences between measurements.

[ Go to the Selection List and choose a different technique. ]

An Assignment: Calculate the resultant vector from Santa Barbara to Santa Ines using the x - y techniques. Sketch the resultant triangle. Comment on differences between measurements.