Because of an oncoming storm, a boat must cross a river in the shortest amount of time possible regardless of where it lands on the opposite shore. Given that the river has a current, in what direction should the boat point? Explain
The boat should point in a direction perpendicular to the current of the river. This is because the shortest distance across the river is a straight line, and the current will naturally push the boat downstream. By pointing the boat perpendicular to the current, the boat is able to use the current to its advantage and move directly across the river. If the boat were to point directly upstream or downstream, it would have to constantly fight against the current, making the trip slower and more difficult.
