1. The problem asks for the compass heading that is 27.5° south of west. 2. Compass headings are measured clockwise from north (0°). 3. West corresponds to 270° on the compass. 4. Moving 27.5° south of west means moving 27.5° clockwise from west. 5. Calculate the heading: $$270° + 27.5° = 297.5°$$ 6. Therefore, the compass heading representing 27.5° south of west is 297.5°.