"Volta do mar," which translates to "turn of the sea" in Portuguese, refers to a navigational technique developed during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. It was particularly used by Portuguese navigators and involved using ocean currents and winds to chart a course that would facilitate longer sea voyages. Instead of sailing directly into prevailing winds and currents, which could be hazardous and inefficient, navigators would take a route that leveraged these natural elements to their advantage.
Wayfinding refers to the process of navigating and orienting oneself in an environment, whether it's natural or built. It involves using various cues, signs, symbols, and tools to help individuals find their way from one location to another. Wayfinding can include both physical elements like signage, maps, and landmarks, as well as cognitive aspects like mental maps and spatial awareness. In urban planning and architecture, effective wayfinding design is crucial for creating intuitive environments that facilitate movement and accessibility.
"Waypoint" can refer to different concepts depending on the context. Here are a few common meanings: 1. **Navigation**: In geography and navigation, a waypoint is a specific set of coordinates that marks a location on a map or in GPS systems. Waypoints are used by travelers and navigators for route planning and tracking.
"Weriyeng" refers to a traditional musical instrument unique to certain cultures in West Africa, particularly in regions like Senegal and Gambia. It is a type of string instrument that is often made from natural materials and is used in various forms of traditional music and storytelling. The instrument can be associated with various performance practices, including dance and social gatherings.
A wind rose is a graphical representation that displays the distribution of wind direction and speed at a specific location over a specified time period. It typically looks like a compass diagram, showing the frequency of winds coming from different directions. Here are some key features of a wind rose: 1. **Directional Representation**: The wind rose is divided into sectors, with each sector representing a specific wind direction (e.g., north, northeast, east, etc.).
Windage typically refers to the effect of wind on the trajectory of a projectile, such as a bullet, arrow, or other flying object. It is a crucial factor in marksmanship and ballistics, as wind can cause significant deviations from the intended path. Adjustments may need to be made to aim points to compensate for wind, especially over long distances.
The World Port Index is a comprehensive directory published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that provides detailed information about ports and terminals around the world. The index serves as a resource for mariners and shipping professionals, offering essential data to facilitate navigation and logistics. Key features of the World Port Index include: 1. **Port Information**: It contains GPS coordinates, port facilities, and services available at each port, including berthing, anchorage, and cargo handling capabilities.