COMPASS NORTH Meaning and
Definition
-
Compass north refers to the cardinal direction on a compass pointing towards the Earth's geographic north pole. In essence, it is the direction aligned with the Earth's rotational axis and is commonly used as a reference point for navigation and orientation.
The term "compass north" originates from the use of compasses, which are magnetic instruments that align with the Earth's magnetic field. The magnetic north pole is different from the geographic north pole, due to the slight angle between the Earth's axis and its magnetic field. Consequently, the compass points towards magnetic north, which may deviate from true north, also known as geographic north.
To determine compass north accurately, one needs to consider the magnetic declination, which is the difference in angle between magnetic north and true north at a specific location. This discrepancy exists because the Earth's magnetic field is not static and changes with time and location.
The concept of compass north is crucial for navigation, as it helps individuals establish their bearings and determine their orientation relative to their destination. It is frequently used in various fields, including outdoor activities, aviation, maritime navigation, and surveying. Knowing the correct compass north direction allows individuals to create accurate maps, calculate routes, and find their way regardless of the surrounding terrain or celestial cues.
In conclusion, compass north is the direction indicated by a compass towards the Earth's magnetic north pole, which may vary from true or geographic north due to the influence of the planet's magnetic field.
Common Misspellings for COMPASS NORTH
- xompass north
- vompass north
- fompass north
- dompass north
- cimpass north
- ckmpass north
- clmpass north
- cpmpass north
- c0mpass north
- c9mpass north
- conpass north
- cokpass north
- cojpass north
- comoass north
- comlass north
- com-ass north
- com0ass north
- compzss north
- compsss north
Etymology of COMPASS NORTH
The term "compass" derives from the Latin word "campāsus", meaning "circle" or "compass". In ancient times, compasses were circular tools used to draw circles or arcs. The term "north" comes from the Old English word "norð" or "nord", which is related to the Old High German word "nord" and the Old Norse "norðr", all meaning "north". The origin of "north" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have connections to the Proto-Indo-European root word "*ner-", meaning "left" or "below". Over time, "compass north" came to represent the direction indicated by the compass pointing toward the Earth's North Pole.
Similar spelling words for COMPASS NORTH
- compass plant,
- compassionate,
- compass plane,
- compact car,
- compass point,
- compassion,
- compass flower,
- compassionately,
- compass card,
- compositor,
- compass saw.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
