In maritime navigation, what does the term "pitch" specifically refer to?

In maritime navigation, the term "pitch" specifically refers to the distance that a vessel travels forward with one complete revolution of its propeller. This measurement is crucial as it influences the vessel's speed and efficiency in the water. The pitch effectively determines how far the boat will move through the water when the propeller rotates a full circle, assuming no slip occurs.

For example, if the pitch of a propeller is stated to be 30 inches, theoretically, the vessel would move forward 30 inches for each full rotation of the propeller. However, due to various conditions such as hull design and water resistance, the actual distance traveled may vary, but the pitch gives a baseline expectation for propulsion characteristics. Understanding pitch helps in optimizing the performance of the vessel and making informed decisions regarding speed and fuel efficiency.