Bearing

High School

Definition

Helps to tell the direction. There is the true bearing and the conventional bearing. The true bearing measures in degrees starting from the north line in a clockwise manner. The conventional bearing tells the direction based on the number of degrees east or west of the north and south line.

Worked examples

\(\)True bearing: \( 045^\circ\)

Measured clockwise from north, this bearing points northeast.

\(\)Conventional bearing: \( \)N\(30^\circ\)E\(\)

Start at north, rotate 30 degrees toward east.

\(\)Conventional bearing: \( \)S\(60^\circ\)W\(\)

Start at south, rotate 60 degrees toward west.

Common mistakes

\(\)True bearing: \( 045^\circ \) measured counterclockwise\(\) → \(\)True bearing: \( 045^\circ \) measured clockwise from north\(\) True bearings are always measured clockwise from the north line.
\(\)N\(120^\circ\)E\(\) → \(\)S\(60^\circ\)E\(\) Conventional bearings cannot exceed 90° from the reference line; switch to the opposite pole.
\(045^\circ \) is the same as \( \)E\(45^\circ\)N\(\) → \(045^\circ \) is the same as \( \)N\(45^\circ\)E\(\) Conventional bearings always start from north or south, never east or west.

Where you'll use it next

You'll use bearings in trigonometry word problems involving navigation, in vectors to describe direction, and in physics and geography when working with maps,航行, and surveying.

Found in 1 StudyPug lesson

Introduction to Bearings: Navigating the World of Math

General Maths

Discover the power of bearing math in navigation and problem-solving. Master essential concepts, from compass bearings to trigonometric applications, and unlock real-world skills.

11th Grade11th