One minute equals how many nautical miles (NM)?

Study for the USCG Watchstander Exam with multiple choice questions and flashcards that include hints and explanations. Get ready to pass your exam!

One minute of arc on the Earth's surface corresponds to one nautical mile. This relationship is fundamental in navigation, as the nautical mile is specifically defined based on the Earth's geometry. Since the Earth is divided into degrees, and each degree is further divided into 60 minutes of arc, the direct correlation means that as you travel one minute of latitude, you will have covered one nautical mile. This unit is particularly useful in maritime navigation, where distances are often calculated based on the curvature of the Earth rather than using standard land measurements. Thus, the answer that states that one minute equals one nautical mile is accurate and aligns with the established definitions used in navigation and cartography.

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