Relative position after a closed rectangle with unequal verticals: Ashok: South 8 km → West 3 km → North 5 km → East 3 km. In which direction is he from the start now?

Introduction / Context:
We determine the bearing of Ashok’s final position relative to his starting point after four orthogonal legs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• S 8 → W 3 → N 5 → E 3.

Concept / Approach:
Compute net displacement.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Horizontal legs cancel; vertical legs leave 3 km southward residue.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They imply different nonzero components not present.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “direction faced” with “direction from start”—here it asks the latter.

Final Answer:
South