Vectors Help. Mathematics Specialist.

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The discussion focuses on a mathematical problem involving two lookouts spotting a fire at different bearings. Lookout No.1 sees the fire at a bearing of 050 degrees, while Lookout No.2 sees it at 020 degrees, with the two lookouts 10 kilometers apart on a bearing of 120 degrees. Participants suggest using the Law of Sines and/or Cosines to solve the problem, noting that it may not strictly relate to vectors. The emphasis is on applying trigonometric principles to determine the distance of the fire from each lookout. This approach highlights the need for clear mathematical methods in solving such problems.
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From Lookout No.1, a fire is spotted on a bearing of 050 degrees. From Lookout No.2, a fire is spotted on a bearing of 020 degrees. Lookout No.2 is 10 kilometers apart from Lookout No.1 on a bearing of 120 degrees. Assuming that the fire and the two lookouts are all on the same horizontal level, find how far the fire is from each lookout.
 
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realplayer1 said:
From Lookout No.1, a fire is spotted on a bearing of 050 degrees. From Lookout No.2, a fire is spotted on a bearing of 020 degrees. Lookout No.2 is 10 kilometers apart from Lookout No.1 on a bearing of 120 degrees. Assuming that the fire and the two lookouts are all on the same horizontal level, find how far the fire is from each lookout.


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If it's any consolation, I think this question is dying to be plugged into the Law of Sines and/or Cosines. It's not exactly vector related.
 

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