A magnetic compass is a navigation instrument with a freely rotating magnetized needle that aligns with the Earth’s magnetic field to indicate direction, typically pointing toward magnetic north. It acts as a miniature magnet that interacts with Earth's magnetic poles, allowing for orientation in hiking, surveying, and maritime navigation.
Specifications
Key Features
Magnetized Needle: A small, lightweight magnet, often with the north-seeking end colored red, that pivots on a low-friction point.
Magnetic North vs. True North: The needle points to the magnetic North Pole, which differs from the geographic (true) North Pole.
Functionality: It works based on the principle that opposite magnetic poles attract, meaning the North pole of the needle is drawn toward the Earth’s magnetic south (located near the geographic North Pole).