Applied Mathematics 1A1E

Module Code: APM1EB1

Year: 2022
Tutorial 1
Solutions
Due Date: 29 July 2022
Tutorial Test

Throughout, distances are measured in metres, abbreviated by the symbol m, and angles
are measured in degrees, denoted by the standard symbol, ◦ .
Problem 1
The position given by the point P = (2, d) ∈ R2 is a distance of 5 m from the position
given by the point Q = (1, 1) ∈ R2 . Determine d as a surd and use it to determine
P.

−→
Solution: Let P = (2, d), let Q = (1, 1) and let →
−a := QP , then ax = 2 − 1 = 1
and ay = d − 1. Furthermore, as given, a = k→ −
a k = 5, so
q
a2x + a2y = 5
⇒ a2x + a2y = 25
⇒ 12 + (d − 1)2 = 25
√
⇒ d − 1 = ± 24
√
⇒ d = 1 ± 24.
√ √
√ if d = 1 − 24 then
Notice that √ a
= 5 and if d√= 1 + 24 then a =
√ 5,
thus
d = 1 − 24 and P = 2, 1 − 24 or d = 1 + 24 and P = 2, 1 + 24 are
both accepted.