VibraXX
Live Quiz Arena
🎁 1 Free Round Daily
⚡ Enter Arena
HomeCategoriesHistoryQuestion
Question
History

Which limitation constrained the accuracy of dead reckoning navigation before Harrison's chronometer?

A)Inaccurate celestial altitude measurements
B)Uncertain estimation of magnetic declination
C)Cumulative error in longitude reckoning
D)Variable atmospheric refraction calculation

💡 Explanation

Before accurate chronometers, longitude estimation depended on dead reckoning and distance estimation because longitude calculation requires very precise time knowledge, leading to cumulative error with each course change. Therefore the uncertainty was highest in longitude, rather than latitude or magnetic declination which relied primarily on celestial observations or magnetic compass variations.

🏆 Up to £1,000 monthly prize pool

Ready for the live challenge? Join the next global round now.
*Terms apply. Skill-based competition.

⚡ Enter Arena

Related Questions

Browse History