EARTH AS A SPHERE

9.4 Understand and use the concept of distance on the surface of the earth to

solve problems

Learning OutcomesFind the shortest distance between two

points on the surface of the earth.

A B

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

A B

A B

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

180o

Answer

The distance between A and B= 180o x 60’= 10 800 nautical mile

A B

A B

37o 37o

O

AOB

Next

0o

AOB = 180 – (37o x 2) = 106o

Back

The distance between A and B= 106o x 60’= 6 360 nautical mile

ConclusionThe shortest distance from

one point to another on the surface of the earth is along a great circle.