Question

If you have ever used a compass, you know that it can be used to help navigate. It does this with a needle that always points north, so you know which direction you are heading.

Why does a compass needle point north?
A) Due to the direction of the earth's orbit.
B) Due to the influence of the earth's rotation.
C) Due to the influence of the earth's magnetic field.
D) Due to the influence of the earth's electric field.

Answer 1

Answer:

Option C.

It is due to the influence of the earth's magnetic field.

Explanation:

• Earth has its own magnetic field. So it can easily interact with other magnetic elements.
• So for balancing the alignment of magnet, a compass always points towards north.
• The north pole of magnet is attracted towards the south portion of earth's magnetic field. So the compass pointing to the north is in fact the south magnetic pole representing earth's geomagnetic character.
• This geomagnetic property of earth is due to the constant movement of charged particles and circulating electric current.