Question

Describe a magnetic compass

Answer 1

Answer:

                    the definition of a magnetic compass is a device with a magnetized rod that shows direction in comparison to the magnetic poles of the Earth. An example of a magnetic compass is how ships find their way on the open sea.

                      Essentially a compass is a light weight magnet, generally a magnetized needle, on a free rotating pivot. This allows the needle to better react to nearby magnetic fields. Since opposites attract the southern pole of the needle is attracted to the Earth's natural magnetic north pole.

Answer 2

Answer:

The magnetic compass is the most familiar compass type. It functions as a pointer to "magnetic north", the local magnetic meridian, because the magnetized needle at its heart aligns itself with the horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field.