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I think you're after the magnetic variation. If so :- That is the variation between true north and the earth's magnetic field at your location. Can be + or - and up to a few tens of degrees.

Your compass does not actually point to north, though that is a useful assumption. In reality, the compass needle aligns itself with the direction of the earth's magnetic lines of force at your location. These do not run nicely north and south. Your map will have on it an indication of the magnetic variation in that region, and may include also the amount by which that varies annually.

The earth's magnetic field is generated (most of it anyway) by electrical currents flowing in the magma. These currents may be caused by the core rotating slightly faster than the mantle and crust. [But no one's been there!] The magma and the earths core beneath it are much too hot to sustain a magnetic field.

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Q: What is the compass variation?
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What has the author Sir W Bain written?

Sir W. Bain has written: 'An essay on the variation of the compass'


A way to find the variation from true north?

To find the variation from true north, you can use a magnetic compass to determine the magnetic north and then calculate the angle between the magnetic north and the true north. This angle is known as the magnetic declination or variation. Many maps and GPS devices provide information about the current magnetic declination in a specific location.


What will happen if the walkers did not adjust their compass readings to account for magnetic variation?

If walkers do not adjust their compass readings for magnetic variation, they could end up navigating in the wrong direction. Magnetic variation means the difference between true north and magnetic north, so failing to adjust for this can lead to significant errors in their navigation. It's essential for accurate orienteering and avoiding getting lost.


Why would magnetic declaration be different for different locations on Earth?

First of all, we're pretty sure that you're referring to "variation", not "declaration".Magnetic variation is the difference between the direction from you to the north pole (called "true north"), and the direction in which your magnetic compass points.That difference changes with your position on earth, because the north pole and theplace your compass points to are two different places. If you were standing at the point that's exactly halfway between them, then your compass would point exactly away from the north pole. And if you're not between them, but you're standing on the extension of the line between them, then your compass it pointing at the north pole, because both points are in the same direction from you.If you look at a navigational map, you will see lines of magnetic variation printed on the map. If you read your magnetic compass and apply the magnetic variation (printed on the map), you can calculate the direction of TRUE north.


What is magnetic variation?

Magnetic variation is the angle between true north (the direction pointing to the North Pole) and magnetic north (the direction a compass needle points). It varies depending on location and changes over time due to shifts in the Earth's magnetic field. Pilots and navigators use magnetic variation to accurately navigate using a compass.


How does one measure magnetic variation?

Magnetic variation is measured using a magnetic compass that indicates the angular difference between magnetic north and true north at a specific location on the Earth's surface. The variation is typically expressed in degrees east or west. Land navigation charts and maps often provide information on the expected magnetic variation for a given area.


What effect does magnetic variation have on the earths orientation?

Magnetic variation affects the angle between true north and magnetic north, resulting in differences in the Earth's orientation for navigation and mapping purposes. This variation can impact the accuracy of compass readings and navigational systems that rely on magnetic north.


How to find magnetic variation if latitude and longitude is known?

Magnetic variation can be found on all nautical charts. On most it will be located within the compass rose nearest to desired location. The annual change is in parenthesis, the calculated date is shown.


What Operation to solve a true heading?

When converting a magnetic bearing to a true bearing then subtract any westerly variation or add an easterly one. The variation can usually be found on the chart, normally by the compass rose, plus the annual change


Different magnetic deviation and magnetic variation?

Magnetic deviation is the error caused by the internal magnetic fields of a ship or aircraft, while magnetic variation is the difference between magnetic north and true north at a specific location. Deviation can be corrected by installing compensating magnets on a vessel, while variation requires adjustment in navigation calculations.


What are the errors of a magnetic compass?

The errors of a magnetic compass include deviation, which is caused by local magnetic fields on the vessel, and variation, which is the difference between true north and magnetic north. Other errors can be caused by inclination, interference from metallic objects, and incorrect calibration. It is important to regularly check and adjust the compass to minimize these errors for accurate navigation.


Where is the magnetic variation of a compss the smallest?

The magnetic variation of a compass is smallest at the magnetic poles and greatest at the equator.