How Do You Spell NAVIGATIONAL INSTRUMENT?
Pronunciation: [nˌavɪɡˈe͡ɪʃənə͡l ˈɪnstɹəmənt] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [nˌavɪɡˈe͡ɪʃənə͡l ˈɪnstɹəmənt] (IPA)
A navigational instrument refers to any tool or device designed to aid in determining the position, direction, and route of a vessel, aircraft, or individual navigating through land or sea. These instruments are utilized by navigators, pilots, and mariners to ensure safe and accurate navigation.
One such instrument is a compass, which is widely recognized as an essential navigational tool. A compass uses the Earth's magnetic field to determine the cardinal directions, such as north, south, east, and west. By aligning the compass needle with the Earth's magnetic field, navigators can effectively establish their heading and maintain a proper course.
Another prominent navigational instrument is the sextant. A sextant is a handheld device used to measure the angle between celestial objects, typically the sun, moon, or stars, and the horizon. This information, combined with specialized tables, allows navigators to ascertain their latitude and calculate their position. By comparing the observed angle with known values, maritime travelers can plot accurate positions and make informed navigational decisions.
In addition to compasses and sextants, modern navigational instruments include radar, sonar, GPS (Global Positioning System), and satellites. These advanced technologies enable precise positioning, accurate mapping, and real-time updates on vessel or aircraft speed, heading, and location, ensuring enhanced safety and efficiency.
In summary, navigational instruments encompass a variety of tools and technologies used for determining position, direction, and route for various modes of transportation. From traditional compasses to modern GPS systems, these instruments play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy, reliability, and safety in navigation.
The word "navigational" is derived from the verb "navigate", which originated from the Latin word "navigare". In Latin, "navigare" is a combination of two words: "navis", meaning "ship", and "agere", meaning "to direct" or "to guide". Thus, "navigare" refers to the act of directing or guiding a ship.
The word "instrument" traces back to the Latin word "instrumentum", which is formed by combining "in", indicating "in" or "into", and "strumen", meaning "tool" or "implement". Therefore, an "instrument" refers to a tool or device used for a specific purpose.
When combined, "navigational instrument" refers to a tool or device used to guide or direct ships and other navigable vessels.
