Which of the following developments was characteristic of trade in the Indian Ocean during this period?

The development characterized by increased maritime technologies and navigation is crucial for understanding trade in the Indian Ocean during this time period. The Indian Ocean trade networks were facilitated by advancements in navigational technology, such as the astrolabe and advances in shipbuilding, including the use of dhows and junks, which allowed for larger cargo capacities and more efficient travel across the ocean. These innovations not only made maritime trade safer but also more widespread, connecting diverse regions including East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.

This flourishing trade environment led to more robust commercial interactions, cultural exchanges, and the growth of port cities that became vibrant centers of trade and cultural diffusion. Increased maritime technologies were integral to creating a more interconnected world, allowing merchants to travel farther and with greater confidence, thus significantly boosting the volume and variety of goods traded across this vast region.