Final answer:
To explain directions over the phone, use relative or compass directions to articulate spatial information clearly. Cultural language differences can influence spatial cognition, and in technology, physics principles are used to design smartphone GPS systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Explaining directions over the phone requires a clear and logical communication of spatial information. One method is to use relative directions, such as to the left, to the right, forward, backward, up, and down. However, when more precision is needed, compass directions like North, South, East, and West are commonly used. For example, instructing someone to walk '6 km northeast from my tent' provides both a distance and a direction, making it easier to locate the intended destination. Language and culture can influence how we conceive of direction, as some groups have a strong spatial cognition influenced by the cardinal directions in their language. Additionally, in physics and engineering, understanding the concepts of positive and negative directions, vectors, and the usage of angles in degrees to define directions can be crucial for tasks such as designing GPS systems found in devices like smartphones.