Which route is used for long distances and follows the curvature of the earth?

The Great Circle route is the correct answer because it represents the shortest distance between two points on the surface of a sphere, such as the Earth. When navigating over long distances, this route allows for the simplest and most efficient travel by following the curvature of the Earth. Using a Great Circle route can significantly reduce travel time and fuel consumption compared to other methods by minimizing the distance covered.

The Great Circle is based on the concept of dividing the Earth into equal parts through its center, leading to a path that arcs over the globe rather than moving in a straight line. This is particularly important for maritime and aerial navigation as it ensures the most effective route possible.

In contrast, the Dead Reckoning method relies on estimating your current position based on previously determined locations, heading, and speed without taking into account the curvature of the Earth for long distances. The Rhumb line, while useful for navigation, travels along a constant compass bearing, resulting in a longer path over long distances than a Great Circle route. Lastly, a Direct line would imply a straight connection between two points on a flat plane, which does not account for the Earth's curvature and is not practical for long distances on a sphere.