Age of Exploration Technology

1. What is a lateen sail?

• A. A square sail used for sailing only before the wind.

• B. A triangular sail set at an angle to the mast.

• C. A circular sail designed for rough waters.

• D. A sail that is permanently aligned with the ship's bow.

2. Why was the lateen sail an improvement?

• A. It allowed explorers to sail against the wind.

• B. It increased the ship's weight for stability.

• C. It replaced magnetic compasses for navigation.

• D. It made ships better for long-distance trade.

3. What does a magnetic compass do?

• A. It measures the angle between the horizon and the sun.

• B. It aligns a magnetized needle with the magnetic poles.

• C. It allows explorers to calculate the speed of the ship.

• D. It shows the direction of the wind.

4. Why was the magnetic compass an improvement?

• A. It allowed sailors to determine latitude.

• B. It enabled explorers to check wind direction.

• C. It showed directions even when no landmarks were visible.

• D. It replaced the need for sails.

5. What is an astrolabe used for?

• A. Measuring the speed of a ship.

• B. Calculating the ship’s distance traveled in a day.

• C. Measuring the angle between the horizon and celestial objects.

• D. Determining the depth of the ocean.

6. Why was the astrolabe an improvement?

• A. It replaced compasses for navigation.

• B. It allowed sailors to navigate by using the position of celestial objects.

• C. It was faster than using a map.

• D. It improved ship construction techniques.

7. What is a caravel?

• A. A small, lightweight ship used by explorers.

• B. A large warship used by ancient civilizations.

• C. A ship with only square sails.

• D. A raft used for coastal trading.

8. Why was the caravel an improvement?

• A. Its heavy design made it durable for long journeys.

• B. Its lightweight design and lateen sails made it faster and more maneuverable.

• C. It replaced astrolabes for navigation.

• D. It was powered by engines instead of sails.