LOXODROME Meaning and
Definition
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A loxodrome, also known as a rhumb line, refers to a navigational curve on the surface of a sphere that intersects all meridians at the same angle, thereby enabling a constant compass bearing. The term "loxodrome" originates from the Greek words "loxo" meaning "slanting" or "zigzag" and "dromos" meaning "way" or "route."
In geographical terms, a loxodrome can be visualized as a line of constant bearing that crosses longitudes at a consistent angle, cutting through meridians in an increasingly spiral manner as it approaches the poles. Unlike a great circle route, which represents the shortest distance between two points on a sphere, a loxodrome follows an entirely different path, creating a constant rhumb angle with meridians. This aspect of a loxodrome makes it particularly useful for nautical navigation since, when sailing along a loxodrome, a navigator only needs to maintain a specific compass bearing to reach their destination.
The concept of the loxodrome was first introduced by Portuguese mathematician Pedro Nunes in the 16th century. Today, loxodromes find application in various fields related to navigation, such as air and sea travel, as well as in some studies of spherical geometry and map projections. Understanding the properties and calculations associated with loxodromes is important for navigators, especially those utilizing traditional compass and map-based methods of wayfinding.
Common Misspellings for LOXODROME
- koxodrome
- poxodrome
- ooxodrome
- lixodrome
- lkxodrome
- llxodrome
- lpxodrome
- l0xodrome
- l9xodrome
- lozodrome
- locodrome
- lododrome
- losodrome
- loxidrome
- loxkdrome
- loxldrome
- loxpdrome
- lox0drome
- lox9drome
- loxosrome
Etymology of LOXODROME
The word loxodrome has its origin in ancient Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: loxos meaning oblique or slanting, and dromos meaning course or track. The combination of these words gives loxodromos, which refers to a line or curve on the surface of a sphere that intersects all meridians at the same angle. Over time, the term was abbreviated to loxodrome.
Similar spelling words for LOXODROME
