Final answer:
To compensate for drift in crosswind landing conditions, pilots need to point the plane somewhat east of north to counteract the wind velocity. Vector equations can be used to solve for the velocity of the plane with respect to the ground, and graphing the vectors helps determine the magnitude and angle of the plane's velocity with respect to the ground.
Step-by-step explanation:
When landing in crosswind conditions, pilots need to compensate for drift caused by the wind. One strategy pilots use is to point the plane somewhat east of north to counteract the wind velocity. By constructing a vector equation that includes the velocity of the plane with respect to the ground, the velocity of the plane with respect to the air, and the velocity of the air with respect to the ground, pilots can solve for the velocity of the plane with respect to the ground. This information can be graphed to determine the magnitude and angle of the plane's velocity with respect to the ground, helping the pilot fly in the correct direction.