Question

Why should we pivot the compass needle on a sharp pin?

• A. To minimise the magnetic effect on the pin
• B. To maximise the magnetic effect on the pin
• C. To minimise the friction between the pin and the compass needle
• D. To ensure that the compass needle will not drop from the pivoted point.

Answer 1

The correct option is C

To minimise the friction between the pin and the compass needle

By pivoting the compass needle on a fixed pin, the friction between the needle and the fixed pin is minimized and the compass needle can rotate freely in the magnetic field.