Have you ever wondered how your phone knows your exact location when you switch on the location button? This is a thought-provoking question! How is it possible that the GPS knows your exact position? The explanation to this question lies in a wonderful (and also one of the most hated) mathematical concept: Trigonometry!
Trigonometry is a field of mathematics based on calculating sides and angles. This branch is helpful in various fields like engineering and physics. One of the most intriguing applications of this is in navigation and positioning.
To understand how GPS works, we first have to dive into the basics. Let us assume that the Earth is a sphere. To know the exact location, we use the coordinate system. We use coordinate geometry to find the coordinates.
The limitation of this method is that it is difficult to measure the angle accurately. To overcome this, we use trigonometry. Trigonometry helps us determine the angles and distance between satellites and the receiver.
For better understanding, we can visualize this using an example. Imagine that you are at a fixed point and wish to know your exact location. To accomplish this, software in the phone computes angles: to calculate the degree between the landmark or satellite and the horizon.
Three GPS satellites are 'visible' whenever you seek to find your location. Each satellite transmits information about its position and the current time; at regular intervals. After this, the receptor intercepts these signals. The receiver measures the time taken for these signals to reach the detector. These signals travel at the speed of light. By using this information, the intersection point is calculated, and your location is pinpointed.
The incredible branch of mathematics known as trigonometry is both intriguing and imperative, possessing an abundance of practical uses in reality. The concepts of trigonometry are essential for progress in the world. It is used for practical purposes such as traversing the Earth's terrain or delving into the vast unknowns of space.
By: Yaksh Dharod, A2-A
