A ship leaves port and sails northwest for 2 hours, and then sails N35degreesE for three hours. If it does not change speed, what direction must the ship sail to return directly to port? How long will this return trip take?

Question

A ship leaves port and sails northwest for 2 hours, and then sails N35degreesE for three hours.  If it does not change speed, what direction must the ship sail to return directly to port?  How long will this return trip take?

Henry · Answer

2h[135o] + 3h[55o] X = 2*Cos135 + 3*Cos55 = 0.307 h. Y = 2*sin135 + 3*sin55 = 3.87 h. Tan A = Y/X = 3.87/0.307 = 12.61 A = 85.5o = The direction. T = Y/sin85.5 = 3.88 h.