Different Notations of Direction

[jwj11]

So I get that [25 degrees North of East] is a line that is 25 degrees above the east axis.

But what about [E25S]

Is that [25 degrees South of East]
or [25 degrees East of South]

My teacher says that [E25S] is [25 degrees East of South]

but based on that notation I think it is [25 degrees South of East]

Please help me determine this because he has deducted marks for it. Any credible internet sources would be helpful.

 

[gabbagabbahey]

I don't have any sources, but you have a legitimate argument there.

I too would interpret [E25S] as 25 degrees South of East.

It's very rare to see bearings (directions) given as X degrees East/West of North/South...it's much more common to see X degrees East/West of North/South.

 

[thomate1]

I understand the importance of precise and accurate notation in conveying information. In this case, it seems that there may be some confusion about the correct way to notate direction using cardinal directions and degrees.

According to the International System of Units (SI), the standard notation for direction is to use cardinal directions (North, South, East, West) followed by the degree measurement in relation to that direction. So, [25 degrees North of East] would be written as N25E.

Using this standard notation, [E25S] would indicate [25 degrees East of South], as your teacher has stated. This means that if you were facing South, you would turn 25 degrees towards the East direction. This is also consistent with the convention used in navigation and mapping.

However, it is understandable how this notation could be interpreted as [25 degrees South of East], as you have suggested. In this case, the notation would follow the order of the directions as they appear on a compass, with the degree measurement indicating how far South you are from the East direction. This notation is not incorrect, but it is not the standard convention used in scientific and mathematical contexts.

To further clarify, the notation [E25S] could also be written as S65E, indicating that you are facing South and then turning 65 degrees towards the East direction.

In conclusion, it is important to use the standard notation for direction, which is cardinal directions followed by the degree measurement in relation to that direction. Your teacher is correct in stating that [E25S] is [25 degrees East of South], and it is important to use this notation in scientific contexts. However, it is also important to understand the alternative interpretation of this notation as [25 degrees South of East].

For further information, I would recommend consulting credible sources such as the International Bureau of Weights and Measures or the National Institute of Standards and Technology. These sources provide guidelines and standards for scientific notation and can help clarify any confusion.