What is meant by the term "declination" in navigation?

The term "declination" in navigation refers to the angular difference between true north and either magnetic north or grid north. This is significant for navigators as it helps to correct compass readings in order to determine the accurate course to a destination.

Understanding declination is essential for effective navigation because compasses do not always point to true north due to variations in the Earth's magnetic field. This misalignment can lead to navigational errors if not accounted for. By knowing the declination for a specific area, navigators can adjust their course or bearings accordingly, ensuring they reach their intended destination safely and accurately.

The other options do not accurately describe declination. For example, the distance between two geographic points pertains more to measurements of distance rather than angular differences, while elevation levels of the ocean and changes in wind direction address entirely different concepts unrelated to the definitions central to navigation.