Magnetic variation (mæɡˈnɛtɪk vɛːrɪˈeɪʃən) is the discrepancy between true north and magnetic north. This term is commonly used in navigation and refers to the angle between a compass needle that points to magnetic north and a line that runs from the same location to true north. Magnetic variation can vary depending on the location on the earth's surface, and pilots and navigators must take this into account when plotting a course. The spelling of magnetic variation is straightforward, with each syllable being pronounced distinctly.
Magnetic variation, also known as magnetic declination or magnetic deviation, refers to the angular difference between true north and magnetic north at a specific location on the Earth's surface. It represents the variance between the Earth's magnetic field and its geographical or true geographic north pole.
The Earth's magnetic field is not perfectly aligned with its rotational axis, thus creating a discrepancy between true north (geographic) and magnetic north. This is primarily due to the movement of molten iron within the Earth's outer core, creating electric currents that produce the magnetic field. Magnetic variation exists because the Earth's magnetic field is not uniform, and there are regional variations in the strength and direction of the field.
Magnetic variation is specified in degrees east or west, with positive values indicating that magnetic north is to the east of true north, and negative values indicating that it is to the west. It varies depending on the specific geographic location and changes over time due to the shifting of the Earth's magnetic field. As a result, magnetic variation must be taken into account for accurate navigation and orientation when using magnetic compasses, particularly for activities such as aviation, maritime navigation, and surveying.
To determine the magnetic variation at a particular location and time, various sources provide magnetic deviation charts or software that indicate the angle and direction of the variation.
The word "magnetic variation" is derived from two components: "magnetic" and "variation".
1. Magnetic: The term "magnetic" originates from the Latin word "magnetis", which means "of the magnet". It traces back to the Greek word "magnētis lithos", referring to the lodestone, a naturally occurring magnetic mineral. The Greeks named it after the region Magnesia in Asia Minor, where lodestones were discovered. Over time, "magnetis" became the Latin term for magnets or magnetic substances.
2. Variation: "Variation" has Latin roots as well, originating from the Latin word "variatio", meaning "a difference" or "a change". This word further derives from the Latin verb "variere", which means "to vary" or "to change". In essence, "variation" denotes a difference or change in something.