Question

A yachtsman sails from point A on a bearing of 075° to a buoy at point B. He then decides to return to point A. On what bearing should he now sail?

a) 075°

b) 255°

c) 105°

d) 285°

Answer 1

To return to point A, the yachtsman should sail on a bearing of 255°, which is 180° different from the initial bearing of 075°.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a yachtsman sails from point A to point B on a bearing of 075°, the return journey from point B to point A requires sailing in the opposite direction. In navigation, bearings are measured clockwise from the north direction.

The opposite bearing is calculated by adding or subtracting 180° to the original bearing. In this case, the original bearing is 075°. To return from point B to point A, the yachtsman needs to take the opposite direction, which is 075° + 180° = 255°.

Therefore, the yachtsman should sail on a bearing of 255° to return from point B to point A. This opposite direction ensures a direct return to the initial point, as it is 180° opposite from the original bearing, aligning with the principle of opposite bearings for a return journey in navigation.