A vessel at LAT 33°45'N, LONG 118°30'W, heads for a destination at LAT 21°15'N, LONG 157°36'W. Determine the true course and distance by Mercator sailing.

Correct Answer: Option D — 250.2°T, 2216 miles

Mercator sailing formulas utilize difference of latitude, meridional parts ($m$), and difference of longitude to solve the rhumb line triangle. Calculations between the given US West Coast position and Hawaii yield a true course of 250.2°T and a distance of 2216 miles.