A backpacker leaves base camp and makes three hikes in succession over level ground:…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
A backpacker leaves base camp and makes three hikes in succession over level ground:
• First leg: 2.50 km directed 45° north of east
• Second leg: 3.00 km due north
• Third leg: 1.80 km directed 60° west of south
Assume the compass directions are measured in the horizontal plane and that the terrain is flat.
(a) Calculate the east–west component and the north–south component of each of the three individual legs. Provide numerical values with appropriate signs and units.
(b) Determine the backpacker’s net displacement from the base camp. Report both the magnitude and the compass direction (angle measured relative to due east).
(c) The backpacker wishes to return directly to base camp in a single straight-line hike. Determine the magnitude and compass direction of this return displacement.