EARTH AS A SPHERE 9.4 Understand and use the concept of distance on the surface of the earth to solve problems

Learning Outcomes Find the shortest distance between two points on the surface of the earth.

A B (37 o N, 54 o W) (37 o N, 126 o E)

A B

A B (37 o N, 54 o W) (37 o N, 126 o E) 180 o Answer

The distance between A and B = 180 o x 60 = nautical mile

A B

A B 37 o O AOB Next 0o0o

AOB = 180 – (37 o x 2) = 106 o Back

The distance between A and B = 106 o x 60 = nautical mile

Conclusion The shortest distance from one point to another on the surface of the earth is along a great circle.