Question

R is 6 m east of W which is 5m south of P . U is 9m west of W and 3m East of S then what is the shortest distance between R and S?

• A. 15m
• B. 12m
• C. 18m
• D. 20m

Answer 1

Answer:

C. 18m

• Understanding Directional Relationships: This question tests your ability to visualize spatial relationships and apply the Pythagorean theorem.
• Visual Representation: Start by drawing a diagram to represent the given information. This helps in visualizing the positions of R, W, P, U, and S.
• Given data:
  • R is 6 m east of W.
  • W is 5 m south of P.
  • U is 9 m west of W.
  • U is 3 m east of S.
• Determining the Position of S: Since U is 9 m west of W and 3 m east of S, the distance between S and W is 9 + 3 = 12 m. Thus, S is 12 m west of W.
• Horizontal Distance: R is 6 m east of W, and S is 12 m west of W. Therefore, the total horizontal distance between R and S is 6 + 12 = 18 m.
• Vertical Distance: There is no vertical displacement between R and S as they lie on the same horizontal line relative to W.
• Shortest Distance: Because there's only a horizontal distance and no vertical distance, the shortest distance between R and S is simply the horizontal distance, which is 18 m.
• Pythagorean Theorem Not Needed: In this specific problem, the shortest distance is a straight line on the horizontal plane, so the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²) isn't required.
• Spatial Reasoning: Enhances spatial visualization skills, crucial for various competitive exams.
• Diagrammatic Approach: Reinforces the importance of using diagrams for solving spatial reasoning problems efficiently.