Question

What is a compass? How is a compass used to find directions?

Answer 1

Compass:

1. An instrument containing a magnetized pointer that shows the direction of magnetic north and bearings from it is called a compass.
2. It's a device with magnetic needles used for showing the direction one is facing.

How is a compass used to find directions:

1. A magnetic compass is composed of a small box with a glass top and a magnetic needle, which moves and indicates the directions.
2. A compass always shows north and south directions, by keeping this as a reference we can always find east and west directions also.
3. The field of the earth's magnetic field is NS direction therefore the magnetized needle aligns itself accordingly