Magnetic Compass


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Magnetic Compass

The magnetic compass is an instrument used to find directions. It consists of a small bar magnet in the form of a needle enclosed in a small box having a glass top. The needle is free to move about its centre. The base of the box is marked with directions like north (N), south (S), east (E), west (W), north-east (NE), north-west (NW), south-east (SE) and south-west (SW) as shown below

One of the most common used magnets is a Direction finding Compass. Basically, it is a very thin bar magnet balanced on a vertical needle as shown in the figure When it is free to move in a horizontal plane it aligns itself in the north—south direction.  This happens due to the fact that the Earth itself behaves as a big magnet having its South Pole in north direction and the North Pole in south and this is the reason why North Pole of the compass needle points towards north as it is attracted by South Pole of the

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Sample Questions
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Question : 1

An instrument with a magnet that is used to find directions is called_________________.

Right Option : B
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Question : 2

Which of the following are correct :

(a) The magnetic compass is an instrument used to find magnetic rocks.

(b) There are eight directions shown in a magnetic compass.

Right Option : B
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Question : 3

How many directions are shown in a magnetic compass ?

Right Option : C
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Explanation
 
 


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