What are the three types of "North" referenced in navigation?

In navigation, the three types of "North" referred to are Grid North, Magnetic North, and True North.

Grid North is a reference point used in map reading, representing the direction of the grid lines on a map. This is especially relevant in GPS and military operations, as it allows for precise navigation and communication regarding positioning.

Magnetic North is the direction that a compass points, which is influenced by the Earth's magnetic field. This direction can differ from True North, leading to the concept of variation or declination that navigators must account for when using a compass in conjunction with a map.

True North refers to the geographic North Pole, the point where all longitudinal lines converge. Navigation using True North is essential for accurate mapping and understanding global positioning based on latitude and longitude.

These three definitions are crucial for effective navigation, ensuring clarity and accuracy in orientation and direction when traversing various terrains. Understanding the distinctions and applications of each type of North is key in military and civilian navigation practices.