Edexcel IGCSE Math A 4.8.C Two-Dimensional Trigonometry Problems

Practise selecting sine, cosine or tangent in multi-step triangles, bearings and composite-shape problems.

Exam points

identify a right triangle and label opposite, adjacent and hypotenuse for the target angle
use a bearing or parallel-line fact to derive the angle needed for trigonometry
carry an unrounded trigonometric result into a second perimeter or area calculation

[Maximum number: 4]

The diagram shows the positions of three ships A, B and C.

Diagram NOT accurately drawn

B is 234 km due north of A.
C is 356 km due east of A.
Work out the bearing of B from C.
Give your answer correct to the nearest degree.

$\tan(\angle BCA)=\frac{234}{356}$ $\angle BCA=\tan^{-1}\left(\frac{234}{356}\right)=33.317\ldots^\circ$

Bearing:
$270+33.317\ldots=303.317\ldots$

Final answer:
$303^\circ$

Accept 303 to 303.4.

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4.8.C Two-dimensional trigonometry and bearings question 1