±«Óătv

Bearings

In mathematics, a bearing is the angle in degrees measured clockwise from north.

Bearings are usually given as a three-figure bearing. For example, 30° clockwise from north is usually written as 030°.

Problems involving bearings can be worked out as you would work out problems with triangles using the sine or cosine rule:

  • Use the cosine rule when:
    • you need to find a side and you know two sides and the included angle
    • you need to find an angle (or bearing) and you know three sides
  • Use the sine rule when:
    • you need to find a side and you know one sides and three angles
    • you need to find an angle (or bearing) and you know two sides and an angle