GCSE Maths Practice: bearings

Question 8 of 10

This question introduces methods commonly used to solve bearings problems involving triangles.

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\( \begin{array}{l}\text{Which methods could help solve a bearings question?}\end{array} \)

Select all correct options:

Identify the type of triangle first, then choose the appropriate rule: Pythagoras for right-angled, Sine or Cosine for non-right-angled.

Bearing problems frequently involve triangles formed by points on a map or a plane's route. To calculate distances, angles, or bearings, students may need to use Sine Rule, Cosine Rule, or Pythagoras' Theorem depending on the triangle type and available information. For right-angled triangles, Pythagoras provides a straightforward method for calculating missing sides. For non-right-angled triangles, the Sine Rule and Cosine Rule allow calculation of unknown angles and sides. Transformations are not applicable for solving bearings, as bearings deal with directions and distances rather than geometric transformations. Practising a variety of bearings problems helps students identify which rule to apply in each situation. Visualising triangles on a diagram and labelling all known sides and angles aids in choosing the correct method. Understanding and applying these rules ensures accuracy in both exam and real-world navigation scenarios.