What tool is specifically designed to measure the height of a tree?

The tool specifically designed to measure the height of a tree is the clinometer. This instrument uses principles of trigonometry to determine the height by measuring angles. The user stands a known distance away from the tree and looks through the clinometer to the top of the tree, recording the angle of elevation. By applying simple trigonometric calculations, the height of the tree can then be accurately determined.

While the other tools mentioned can serve important purposes in forestry and environmental studies, they are not primarily designed for measuring tree height. For instance, a compass is used for navigation and directional purposes but does not provide measurements related to vertical elevation. A prism is typically used for forest stand assessments and determining tree density but not for height measurement. A Biltmore Stick is a tool used to estimate the diameter of trees at breast height, which is crucial for volume calculations but does not measure height directly.