What does the bearing of a target represent in radar navigation?

In radar navigation, the bearing of a target represents the direction from the center of the radar screen to the target. This is crucial for mariners as it helps them understand the relative position of other vessels, navigational aids, and land features in relation to their own vessel. The bearing is typically measured in degrees from a reference point, usually true north or the boat's heading, allowing crew members to track and communicate the location of targets effectively.

Understanding the bearing is essential for collision avoidance and navigation, as it provides critical information on how to alter course or speed in response to other vessels in proximity. The concept of bearing helps in situational awareness and decision-making while operating a boat, making it an integral part of radar navigation training.

The other options, while related to navigation, do not accurately describe the concept of bearing. Distance from the center of the screen pertains to how far a target is, not its directional placement. Speed of approach relates to how fast the target is moving relative to the vessel, and type of vessel speaks to the classification of the target, which are all important, but do not represent the directional aspect encompassed by "bearing."