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← HistoryWhich navigational outcome was averted during the Age of Sail by measuring lunar distances?
A)Inaccurate compass bearing correction
B)High seas piracy route interception
C)Longitudinal positioning error increases✓
D)Inability to determine latitude accurately.
💡 Explanation
When chronometers were unavailable, measuring lunar distances allowed calculation of Greenwich Mean Time based on the moon's position relative to stars, using triangulation because the precise measurements are linked with the movement of that moon across the sky relative to other celestial objects. Therefore, this reduces significant longitudinal positioning error, rather than issues compass, piracy, or latitude which require other instruments.
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