Net bearing from the start after 5 legs: Walk 8 km North → right 12 km (East) → left 7 km (North) → 24 km South → right 12 km (West). In which direction is he from the start now?

Introduction / Context:
We compute the net displacement and then state the bearing from the starting point.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• N 8 → E 12 → N 7 → S 24 → W 12.

Concept / Approach:
Sum x and y components independently.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Horizontal movements cancel; vertical net is 9 km south.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• North/East/West imply different nonzero components not present.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to subtract the large southward leg from the total northward movement.

Final Answer:
South