Question

A skydiver is at an altitude of 1.4 mi above the earth’s surface.

From the skydiver’s viewpoint, what is the distance to the horizon?

Answer 1

To answer this question and to solve the problem, you must apply the proccedure shown below:

1. The diameter of the earth is:

Diameter=12,742 km=7,917.50 mi

2. Then, the radius of the earth is:

Radius=7,917.50 mi/2
Radius=3,958.75 mi

3. Now, you must apply the Tangent Secant Theorem. Then, you have:

x²=1.4(1,4+(2)(3,958.75))
x²=11,086.46
x=√11,086.46
x=105.29 mi

From the skydiver’s viewpoint, what is the distance to the horizon?

The answer is: 105.29 mi