What is an azimuth?

An azimuth is defined as a horizontal angle that is measured in a clockwise direction from a reference direction, usually true north. This measurement is vital in navigation and surveying because it allows for precise location and orientation.

In practical applications, such as map reading or using a compass, knowing the azimuth helps determine the direction to travel or the location of landmarks. It is often expressed in degrees, ranging from 0° to 360°, where 0° represents true north, 90° indicates east, 180° is south, and 270° is west.

Understanding azimuth is crucial for navigators, pilots, and anyone involved in outdoor activities or land surveying, as it forms the foundation upon which many navigation and mapping tasks are built.