MAGNETIC NEEDLE Meaning and
Definition
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A magnetic needle, also known as a magnetic compass needle or simply compass needle, is a delicate and slender instrument used in compasses and magnetometers to determine the direction of the Earth's magnetic field. It consists of a thin, lightweight metal rod or needle that is magnetized or made magnetic by aligning it with the Earth's magnetic field. The needle is typically composed of a magnetizable material such as steel or iron alloy.
The magnetic needle is designed to be suspended in such a way that it can rotate freely, allowing it to align itself with the magnetic field. The needle's north-seeking end is usually marked with a red tip, while the south-seeking end often remains unmarked or has a black tip. When the needle is properly balanced, it will point towards the Earth's magnetic north pole, indicating the direction of true north.
Magnetic needles are crucial navigational tools used in various applications, including navigation at sea, land, and in the air. By observing the orientation of a magnetic needle, one can determine their heading or bearing relative to magnetic north, aiding in the navigation process. They have been used for centuries and played a vital role in exploration, trade, and mapping of the Earth's surface. Nowadays, compass needles are also found in numerous modern devices like smartphones and smartwatches to provide digital compass functionality.
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The magnetised steel needle of the mariner's compass.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MAGNETIC NEEDLE
- nagnetic needle
- kagnetic needle
- jagnetic needle
- mzgnetic needle
- msgnetic needle
- mwgnetic needle
- mqgnetic needle
- mafnetic needle
- mavnetic needle
- mabnetic needle
- mahnetic needle
- maynetic needle
- matnetic needle
- magbetic needle
- magmetic needle
- magjetic needle
- maghetic needle
- magnwtic needle
- magnstic needle
Etymology of MAGNETIC NEEDLE
The word "magnetic" comes from the Latin word "magnēticus", which in turn originates from the Greek word "magnētikos", meaning "pertaining to a magnet". The word "needle" has Old English roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "neþlą". It originally referred to a pointed instrument used for sewing or stitching.
When combined, the term "magnetic needle" refers to a needle that has been magnetized, such as the magnetized needle used in a compass. This designation highlights its ability to align with the Earth's magnetic field and indicate direction.
Similar spelling words for MAGNETIC NEEDLE
- magnetic disc,
- magnetic disk,
- magnetic head,
- magnetic field,
- magnetic tape,
- magnetic pole,
- magnetic moment,
- magnetic flux unit,
- magnetic north,
- magnetic storage,
- magnetic equator,
- magnetic monopole,
- magnetic dipole,
- magnetic ink,
- magnetic iron-ore,
- magnetic induction,
- magnetic compass,
- magnetic dip,
- magnetic stripe,
- magnetic bottle,
- magnetic pyrites,
- magnetic flux,
- magnetic core,
- magnetization,
- magnetisation,
- magnetic mine,
- magnetic storm,
- magnetic force,
- magnetic meridian,
- magnetic intensity,
- magnetic medium,
- magnetic variation,
- magnetic recorder,
- magnetic resonance,
- magnetically.
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