Trigonometry?

[typhon]

Hi all,

As a total beginner with regard to Excel and sadly lacking in mathematical ability, I was seeking assistance in a problem I have been assigned.

Basically, I have been given the fixed coordinates (in eastings and northings) of one point and need to calculate the distance and bearing of a selection of other points relative to the fixed point.

For example, the fixed point - Point X = 100 E and 200 N and the other points are as follows:

Point A = 250 E and 100 N
Point B = 220 E and 320 N
Point C = 80 E and 450 N

Just wondering how I can use Excel to work out the distances from X to A,B & C respectively and the bearing expressed in degrees (i.e. between 0-360)?

I have been trying to use a combination of SIN,COS and TAN, but I just am not getting close to calculating any angles.

Any assistance on this is greatly appreciated.

[zuri125]

are u able to get the distances? is it just the angles you need help on? Because im not exactly sure what you mean by finding the angle.
To find the distance (and possibly also help you get the angle) follow this:
I am putting what each cell should say:
B2=E
C2=N
B3=100
C3=200
B4=250
C4=100
D4=B4-B3
E4=C4-C3
F4=SQRT((D4*D4)+(E4*E4))
The value F4 gives you is the distance between the 2 points. Your answer for the first point should be 180. If you didnt understand what I did, I basically used the pythagoream thearom to do this.
If you want me to help with the second question, please clarify it.

[typhon]

Thank you zuri125 for your help so far.

Yes, I'm also trying to find the angle or bearing from the first point X to the following points - A, B & C.

I was thinking that if Excel could calculate the answer in degrees clockwise then I could later convert these into compass directions.

For example, I would be able to calculate that Point A is 180 metres in a southeasterly direction (or 135 degrees clockwise) from Point X.

Thanks again.

[zuri125]

sorry, ive been trying to see if i am able to find the angles, but its not working. I'll keep on trying but i dont think i can help u with this part.

[protonLeah]

The standard angle measured from the x-axis (East) is:

=ATAN(North/east)*(180/pi())

For point (1) at 250E by 100 N, then
angle = ATAN(-100/150)*180/PI() = -33.69 deg. below the horizontal. However, you used the word bearing, which I assume means an angle measured from the north-axis, so 90 - (-34) = 124 deg.